Levels Of Depression Research Articles

Mental health of individuals with pre-existing mental illnesses at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic: results of the German National Cohort (NAKO).

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted a range of studies on mental health, with mixed results. While numerous studies reported worsened conditions in individuals with pre-existing mental disorders, others showed resilience and stability in mental health. However, longitudinal data focusing on the German population are sparse, especially regarding effects of age and pre-existing mental disorders during the early stages of the pandemic. To assess the interplay between psychiatric history, age, and the timing of the pandemic, with a focus on understanding how these factors relate to the severity of depression and anxiety symptoms. Exploratory analyses were based on 135,445 individuals aged 20-72 years from the German National Cohort (NAKO). Depressive and anxiety symptoms were assessed before and after the first wave of the pandemic. Inferential statistical analyses and negative binomial regression models were calculated. Persons with a self-reported psychiatric history exhibited comparable levels of depression and anxiety symptom severity after the first wave of the pandemic compared to the time before. In contrast, individuals without a psychiatric history, particularly those in their 20s to 40s, experienced an increase in mental health symptom severity during the first wave of the pandemic. Analyses focuses on the first wave of the pandemic, leaving the long-term mental health effects unexplored. Future research should consider age-specific and mental-health-related factors when addressing global health crises. Additionally, it is important to explore factors influencing resilience and adaptation, aiming to develop targeted interventions and informed policies for effective mental health management during pandemics.

Eating disorders, body image, emotion, and self-esteem in adults: A systematic review

Introduction & Purpose Eating disorders, body image, self-esteem, and emotional issues affect psychological and physical health and often co-occur. Disturbances in body image can trigger and worsen disordered eating behaviours. Emotions and self-esteem are influential factors in both eating disorders and body image issues, impacting their severity and manifestation. The interconnection of eating disorders, body image, emotions, and self-esteem has mostly been studied in adolescents, while there has been less research on the adult population. This systematic review seeks to synthesise existing literature on the comorbidity and coexistence of eating disorders, body image disturbance, emotion, and self-esteem in the adult population. Methods Following the PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search was conducted in scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) for articles published between 2010 and 2024 (Figure 1). The selected studies focused on the connections between eating disorders, body image, emotion, and self-esteem in adult populations. Six studies were selected from an initial collection of 1,117 articles, with most female participants representing different racial backgrounds. The study participants were required to be over 18 years old and use standard tools to measure the variables, and only original research with significant results was included. Results Individuals with eating disorders showed higher levels of body dissatisfaction, which was linked with lower self-esteem and emotional dysregulation. Women with bulimia nervosa displayed higher emotion-oriented coping strategies compared to controls, resulting in low self-esteem (Wölfges et al., 2011). Obese patients with binge-eating disorders (BED) had more negative attitudes towards obesity compared to obese individuals without BED, correlating with higher levels of depression and disordered eating behaviours (Barnes et al., 2014). The African American participants reported lower weight bias than white participants (Lewer et al., 2015). Furthermore, body image disturbances were a consistent theme, particularly their role in worsening eating disorders, with findings showing that body dissatisfaction indirectly influenced disordered eating behaviours through its effects on self-esteem and depression (Brechan & Kvalem, 2015). The findings revealed that women are more vulnerable to the negative impacts of body image dissatisfaction and emotional dysregulation on eating disorders (Barnes et al., 2014; Brechan & Kvalem, 2015). Additionally, the impact of weight bias and dissociative experiences during sexual activities, which were linked to binge eating and sexual dissatisfaction, was highlighted (Castellini et al., 2017). Discussion The findings emphasise the connections between self-esteem, body image, emotion, and eating disorders. Professional interventions for eating disorders should consider improving self-esteem and providing adaptive emotion techniques to enhance body image perception. The importance of self-compassion in improving body image and managing eating disorders was also noted (Kelly et al., 2014). More research on adult populations in non-Western countries is needed. Conclusion This review emphasises the relationships between eating disorders, body image, self-esteem, and emotion in adults. Moreover, the combination of strategies that improve emotional regulation, self-esteem, and body image perception within clinical interventions could lead to more practical management of eating disorders in adults. Future research should explore these variables across different cultures with varied research strategies.

Patient Experiences and Perceptions with Infections Due to Multidrug-Resistant Organisms: A Systematic Review.

Infections by multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) pose significant public health challenges, including increased mortality rates, healthcare costs, and significant impacts on the quality of life for patients. Utilizing a systematic review methodology adhering to PRISMA guidelines, we performed a comprehensive search across three databases, identifying 20 relevant studies that investigated the psychological effects of infections due to MDROs on hospitalized adults. The primary outcomes examined included depression, anxiety, and other psychosocial impacts, while secondary outcomes included patient and caregiver understanding of the infection. Findings revealed consistent associations between contact isolation due to MDRO infections and heightened levels of depression and anxiety among patients, although evidence regarding the impact on anger was mixed. Other psychological aspects, such as feelings of stigmatization and reduced healthcare provider interactions, were also recorded. The current systematic review highlights the importance of addressing these psychological effects through holistic, patient-centered care approaches, emphasizing the need for better communication and comprehensive education for both patients and healthcare providers. Our findings suggest that mitigating the psychological burden of MDROs can enhance overall patient care and outcomes and call for further research to optimize care strategies for patients hospitalized for infections due to MDROs.

Gegen Qinlian decoction alleviates depression-like behavior by modulating the gut microenvironment in CUMS rats

BackgroundGegen Qinlian Decoction (GQD) is a classical traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula primarily utilized for treating gut disorders. GQD showed therapeutic effects on several diseases in clinical and animal studies by targeting gut microbes. Our recent studies also found that GQD efficiently alleviated anxiety in methamphetamine-withdrawn mice via regulating gut microbiome and metabolism. Given that various studies have indicated the link between the gut microbiome and the development of depression, here we endeavor to explore whether GQD can manage depression disorders by targeting the gut microbiome.Methods and materialsThe depression-like model was induced in rats through chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) and the depression levels were determined using the sucrose preference test (SPT). To address the depression-like behavior in rats, oral administration of GQD was employed. The colon microbiome and metabolite patterns were determined by 16s rRNA sequencing and untargeted metabolomics, respectively.ResultsWe found 6 weeks of CUMS can induce depression-like behavior in rats and 4 weeks of GQD treatment can significantly alleviate the depression-like behavior. GQD treatment can also ameliorate the histological lesions in the colon of CUMS rats. Then, CUMS increased the abundance of gut microbes, while GQD treatment can restore it to a lower level. We further discovered that the abundances of 19 bacteria at the genus level were changed with CUMS treatment, among which the abundances of Ruminococcus, Lachnoclostridium, Pygmaiobacter, Bacteroides, Pseudomonas, and Pseudomonas Family_XIII_AD3011_group were stored by GQD treatment. Besides, we identified the levels of 36 colon metabolites were changed with CUMS treatment, among which the levels of Fasciculic acid B, Spermine, Fludrocortisone acetate, alpha-Ketoglutaric acid, 2-Oxoglutaric acid, N’-(benzoyloxy)-2-(2,2-dichlorocyclopropyl) ethanimidamide, N6-Succinyl Adenosine Oleanolic acid, KQH, Ergosta-5,7,9(11),22-Tetraen-3-beta-Ol, Gentisic acid, 4-Hydroxyretinoic Acid, FAHFA (3:0/16:0), Leucine-enkephalin and N-lactoyl-phenylalanine can be restored by GQD treatment.ConclusionOur findings provide evidence supporting the therapeutic efficacy of GQD in alleviating depression-like behavior in CUMS rats, potentially being targeted on colon bacteria (especially the abundance of Ruminococcus and Bacteroides) and metabolites (especially the level of Oleanolic acid).

Investigation of Depression and Post-Traumatic Growth in Renal Transplant Recipients via Self-Assessment.

Objective: In this study, we aimed to determine post-traumatic growth and depression levels in renal transplant recipients and the relationship between these two variables. Design and Methods: The study was conducted with a descriptive, cross-sectional, and correlational design. The data for the study were collected at the organ transplant unit of a research and training hospital located in the west of Turkey. The sample of the study included 122 kidney transplant recipients (n = 122). A Sociodemographic Information Form, the Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) Inventory, and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) were employed to collect data. In the analyses of the data, descriptive statistics, ANOVA, an independent-samples t-test, post hoc tests, and Pearson correlation tests were used. Results: As the ages of the renal transplant recipients increased, their depression scores decreased, while their PTG scores increased. Higher depression levels were identified in the female participants compared to the male participants and in those with a low income compared to other income groups. The lowest PTG levels were found in the recipients who received their kidney transplants from third-degree relatives. Age, gender, economic status, and time of transplant were predictors of depression. The identity of the donor was the most significant predictor of PTG (62% explanation rate). A strong and inverse correlation was found between depression and PTG (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Post-traumatic growth was found to decrease depression. However, while poor economic status led to depression, high economic status did not lead to a significant change in PTG. As education levels increased, PTG decreased, but education status did not have any significant effect on depression. On the other hand, there was a negative correlation between PTG and depression. The results obtained in this study are valuable and important in terms of understanding depression better and determining PTG as a significant factor that could alleviate it.

Health survey on anxiety, depression, and stress in Afghanistan: A large-scale cross-sectional study amid ongoing challenges

BackgroundOne of the most significant events in recent Afghan history is the rise of the Taliban and the war that followed, which had profound impacts on the lives of Afghans. The present study examined the mental health of Afghans living under the Taliban government.MethodsBetween June 5, 2023 and February 12, 2024, a cross-sectional study was conducted among the Afghan population in three key regions of Afghanistan. Data were collected using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. The 21-item Depression, Anxiety and Stress scale (DASS-21) was utilized to assess depression, anxiety and stress of the Afghan population. Ethical permission for this study was granted by the Afghanistan Center for Epidemiological Studies (ACES). Logistic regression models were employed to explore the relationship between socio-demographic characteristics and depression, anxiety, and stress among 2,698 participants.ResultsThe prevalence of depression was 72.05%, anxiety was 71.94%, and stress was 66.49%. Multiple regression analysis indicated that gender (being female), economic status (being poor), residency (living in rural areas), education level (being illiterate), being a cigarette smoker, and having experienced a bad event during the past month were significantly associated with depression, anxiety and stress.ConclusionThe findings of the present study show very high levels of anxiety, depression, and stress, most likely reflecting the profound impact of recent political, social, and economic changes. Notably, a significant majority of participants, particularly females and individuals above 35 years of age, reported severe to extremely severe mental health symptoms. The mental health crisis in Afghanistan is a complex and urgent issue that requires a comprehensive and compassionate response.

Physiological Mechanisms of The Relationship Between Memory, Attention, and Arousal in Children Diagnosed with Autism

Autism is a developmental disorder with an early onset and lifelong duration that impairs social interaction and communication, with the condition being repeatedly diagnosed. To gain scientific knowledge about autism, one must observe these patients, perform a series of investigations and examinations, and finally obtain a general title. The first stage of getting to know children diagnosed with autism is one of the most important conditions for studying their psychology and inner world. Therefore, studying the psychology of children diagnosed with autism is also considered a responsible task for psychologists. The article presents the results of assessing the level of anxiety, stress, depression, attention and memory indicators in children with autism, which is an actual problem in recent times, in different age groups. The studies were conducted at two different locations: the Special Support, Special Training and Rehabilitation Centre (Tatvan district of Bitlis, Turkey) and the Psychological Centre Psychosocial Rehabilitation and Development Centre “PRIM” (Baku, Azerbaijan). Conducting studies in two different regions will reveal whether there is a difference between patients diagnosed with autism. The study examined children diagnosed with autism aged 6-12 years of both sexes (44 in Turkey; 51 in Azerbaijan). The results obtained in the study were compared with normal test limits. Psychological testing was conducted on an individual basis, and for the comprehensive study, the same child was tested repeatedly, with a certain frequency and with special attention. Although more boys than girls were included in the confirmed cases, since the aim was not to study gender differences, care was taken to obtain generalisable results. The attempt to clarify a complex topic such as stress in a broad topic such as autism characterises a very complex situation. Therefore, we have endeavoured to obtain more accurate results through the use of comprehensive tests. The main objective of the research work is to obtain certain results by using comprehensive psychological research methods in determining the level of stress and anxiety in children diagnosed with autism and to study the main characteristics of autism by comparing them with psychological indicators considered within the normal range. The results of studies conducted in Turkey and Azerbaijan showed the presence of low levels of attention and memory processes, behavioural disorders, aggressive and depressive behaviour in all age groups against the background of increased arousal. Children diagnosed with autism exhibit similar symptoms regardless of their geographical location, indicating that this disease has common characteristics regardless of national, racial, religious, and regional peculiarities.

A Pilot Study on the Effects of Exercise Training on Cardiorespiratory Performance, Quality of Life, and Immunologic Variables in Long COVID.

Objectives: Fatigue is a prominent feature of long COVID (LC) and may be related to several pathophysiologic mechanisms, including immune hyperstimulation. Aerobic endurance exercise training may be a useful therapy, with appropriate attention to preventing post-exertional malaise. Methods: Fourteen participants completed a pilot study of aerobic exercise training (twenty 1.5 h sessions of over 10 weeks). Cardiorespiratory fitness, 6 min walk distance, quality of life, symptoms, 7-day physical activity, immunophenotype, and inflammatory biomarkers were measured before and after exercise training. Results: The participant characteristics at baseline were as follows: 53.5 ± 11.6 yrs, 53% f, BMI 32.5 ± 8.4, 42% ex-smokers, 15.1 ± 8.8 months since initial COVID-19 infection, low normal pulmonary function testing, V.O2peak 19.3 ± 5.1 mL/kg/min, 87 ± 17% predicted. After exercise training, participants significantly increased their peak work rate (+16 ± 20 W, p = 0.010) and V.O2peak (+1.55 ± 2.4 mL/kg/min, p = 0.030). Patients reported improvements in fatigue severity (-11%), depression (-42%), anxiety (-29%), and dyspnea level (-46%). There were no changes in 6MW distance or physical activity. The circulating number of CD3+, CD4+, CD19+, CD14++CD16, and CD16++CD14+ monocytes and CD56+ cells (assessed with flow cytometry) increased with acute exercise (rest to peak) and was not diminished or augmented by exercise training. Plasma concentrations of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, INF-γ, and INF-λ were normal at study entry and not affected by training. Conclusions: Aerobic endurance exercise training in individuals with LC delivered beneficial effects on cardiorespiratory fitness, quality of life, anxiety, depression, and fatigue without detrimental effects on immunologic function.

Factors Associated with Depressive Syndrome in Adult Congenital Heart Disease Patients at RSUP Haji Adam Malik Medan

Besides being one of the causes of death in the world, adult congenital heart disease sufferers seem to be forgotten and neglected from what is called depression and anxiety. Not much has been described about depressive psychopathology in adult congenital heart disease patients. The purpose of this study was to analyze the factors associated with depressive syndrome in congenital heart disease patients. This cross-sectional study was conducted by 97 adult congenital heart disease patients recruited sequentially, consisting of 8 independent variables and 1 dependent variable. Depression scores were assessed using the BDI-II measuring instrument. Most sexes were female, with as many as 59 subjects (60.2 %). The most marital status was 66 subjects (67.3 %). The most occupations were those who worked as many as 70 subjects (71.4 %), the most previous history of surgery/intervention were those who did not have a history of prior surgery/intervention as many as 56 subjects (57.1 %), the most comorbid diseases were those who did not have a history of comorbid diseases as many as 86 subjects (87.8 %), age with a median value of 33 (18 - 45), the median value of education for adult CHD patients was 15 (12 - 18), the median NYHA grade value of adult CHD patients is 2 (1 - 4). The characteristics of patients who are highly educated, NYHA classmates, and who have jobs should be a concern because they will be more likely to experience depressive syndrome. HIGHLIGHTS Relationship between NYHA class and depression syndrome: Patients with higher NYHA grades are prone to depression. This indicates that the more severe the heart condition, the greater the level of depression. The role of education in depression: The higher the education of heart patients, the more likely they are to develop depression. Effect of work on depression: Patients without work are more prone to depression than patients who work, demonstrating the importance of job stability for inner well-being. Use of BDI-II tool: Depression measurement is carried out using BDI-II, a screening tool that effectively measures depression. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Predictors of depression among caregivers of patients with severe mental illness in Northwest Ethiopia, 2023: an explanatory sequential mixed-method study.

Severe mental illness results in an enormous social and economic burden on affected individuals, their families, and communities, especially in developing countries, such as Ethiopia. The aim of this study was to assess the level of depression among caregivers of patients with severe mental illness in Debre Tabor Town, Northwest Ethiopia in 2023. This institution-based explanatory mixed study was conducted at Debre Tabor Compressive Specialized Hospitals between September 30 to October 30, 2023. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select 260 study participants, and a public health questionnaire was used to assess depression. Epicollect5 was used to collect data, which were then exported to the SPSS-25 for analysis. Variables with a p-value <0.25 were considered candidates for the multivariate logistic regression analysis. The odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval were used to determine the strength of the association. An in-depth interview was conducted with 11 participants, selected using purposive sampling. The prevalence of depression was 31.3% (95% CI = 29.7-38.6). The multivariate analysis showed that being female (AOD = 2.43, CI = 1.42-7.23), divorced/widowed (AOD = 1.8, CI = 1.32-6.34), poor social support (AOD = 2.2, CI = 1.9-5.87), and perceived stigma (AOD = 2.33, CI = 0.24-13.22) were positively associated with depression. The qualitative results suggest that being female, illiterate, severity of the illness, poor social support, and stigma were factors for depression. The prevalence of depression was high among caregivers of patients with severe mental illness. Female sex, being divorced or widowed, being illiterate, poor social support, and perceived stigma were the contributing factors. This implies that a greater focus on caregivers and the government increases mental health literacy and mental health community services.

Intron retention as an excellent marker for diagnosing depression and for discovering new potential pathways for drug intervention.

Peripheral inflammation is often associated with depressive disorders, and immunological biomarkers of depression remain a focus of investigation. We performed RNA-seq analysis of RNA transcripts of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells from a case-control study including subjects with self-reported depression in the pre-symptomatic state of major depressive disorder and analyzed differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and the frequency of intron retention (IR) using rMATS. Among the statistically significant DEGs identified, the 651 upregulated DEGs were particularly enriched in the term "bacterial infection and phagocytosis", whereas the 820 downregulated DEGs were enriched in the terms "antigen presentation" and "T-cell proliferation and maturation". We also analyzed 158 genes for which the IR was increased (IncIR) and 211 genes for which the IR was decreased (DecIR) in the depressed subjects. Although the Gene Ontology terms associated with IncIR and DecIR were very similar to those of the up- and downregulated genes, respectively, IR genes appeared to be particularly enriched in genes with sensor functions, with a preponderance of the term "ciliary assembly and function". The observation that IR genes specifically interact with innate immunity genes suggests that immune-related genes, as well as cilia-related genes, may be excellent markers of depression. Re-analysis of previously published RNA-seq data from patients with MDD showed that common IR genes, particularly our predicted immune- and cilia-related genes, are commonly detected in populations with different levels of depression, providing validity for using IR to detect depression. Depression was found to be associated with activation of the innate immune response and relative inactivation of T-cell signaling. The DEGs we identified reflect physiological demands that are controlled at the transcriptional level, whereas the IR results reflect a more direct mechanism for monitoring protein homeostasis. Accordingly, an alteration in IR, namely IncIR or DecIR, is a stress response, and intron-retained transcripts are sensors of the physiological state of the cytoplasm. The results demonstrate the potential of relative IR as a biomarker for the immunological stratification of depressed patients and the utility of IR for the discovery of novel pathways involved in recovery from depression.

Improvement of Functional Capacity and Quality of Life by Cardiac Rehabilitation: Case Series

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a long-term program involving prescribed exercise, education, and counseling to mitigate the physiological and psychological impacts of cardiac disease. Despite evidence supporting its effectiveness in reducing mortality rates, CR remains underutilized, particularly among patients with heart failure. This research aims to highlight the importance of CR in improving the quality of life and functional capacity for post-cardiac surgery and heart failure patients. The study involved a series of case illustrations, including patients undergoing aortic valve replacement, coronary artery bypass graft surgery, and congenital heart disease repair. Each patient completed a Phase II rehabilitation program consisting of 12 exercise sessions, with functional capacity measured using the six-minute walk test (6MWT). The results indicated significant improvements in both functional capacity and quality of life, including reductions in depression levels. The findings suggest that CR is highly beneficial in enhancing patients' overall recovery and quality of life, particularly when integrated into standard postoperative care. Given these results, healthcare systems should promote broader access to CR programs to maximize patient outcomes. Additionally, future research should explore long-term benefits and develop personalized CR programs to cater to diverse patient needs.

Helping Students Make Meaningful Connections: A Cross-Sectional Survey of College Student Loneliness

ABSTRACT Background Young adults are experiencing high levels of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. At colleges and universities across the United States, programs exist to address student mental health needs exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Purpose Current levels of loneliness among students (n = 487) at a Midwest university were researched to compare with previous trends and develop clearer recommendations for purposeful interventions. Methods This study utilized a cross-sectional study design with the UCLA Loneliness Scale during the fall 2022 semester. Results Higher levels of loneliness were linked to the demographics of identifying as cis-males, non-binary, and/or students of color. Students who had greater than 4+ h of social media usage per week and first year students also displayed the highest levels of loneliness. Qualitative data from student participants highlighted the importance of having a peer attend events with them, familiarity of event structures, and expanding access to counseling services and mentorship programs. Discussion Intentional development of programs needs to be prioritized to address student loneliness on campus. Translation to Health Education Practice With the increase in loneliness across the United States, there existopportunities for mentoring programs for struggling students and to build community to normalize the promotion of mental and emotional health resources.

The impact of internet device diversity on depressive symptoms among middle-aged and older adults in China: A cross-lagged model of social participation as the mediating role

BackgroundDepressive symptoms is more prevalent in middle-aged and older populations, and the development of Internet technology has brought new challenges and opportunities for the mental health of this group. This study aims to explore the bidirectional relationship between Internet device diversity and levels of depressive symptoms through longitudinal data analysis, as well as investigate the mediating role of social participation. MethodsData for the analysis was retrieved from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) in 2015, 2018, and 2020, which included 9259 middle-aged and older adults. The sum of the number of devices mentioned by each participant was calculated to assess the diversity of internet device use, a weighted total score of how frequently and to what extent individuals had participated in various social activities in the past month was calculated to measure the social engagement, and the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale was used to calculate depressive symptoms. A cross-lagged mediation model and bivariate correlation analysis were employed to examine the longitudinal relationships among depressive symptoms, internet device diversity, and social participation. Age, gender, highest education level, marital status, drinking status, smoking history, self-rated health, sleep duration, and chronic health conditions were adjusted as covariates. ResultsThe results from the three waves of longitudinal data revealed mutual predictive relationships among internet device diversity, social participation, and depressive symptoms. The mediating effect was significant (β = −0.612, 95 % CI −0.796 to −0.429), with significant gender differences observed. Furthermore, our findings indicated that social participation functioned as a protective factor against depressive symptoms, and the association between social participation and depressive symptoms was not a straightforward linear relationship. This suggests that participation in social activities (either high or low) is associated with a lower risk of depressive symptoms compared to no social participation, with no gender differences. ConclusionsThis study suggests that there is a relationship between internet device diversity and lower levels of depressive symptoms among middle-aged and older adults in China. Social participation mediates the relationship between internet device diversity and depressive symptoms, and different levels of social engagement have different effects on depressive symptoms. It is recommended to increase support for social participation among middle-aged and older adults, strengthen structural social capital, and better leverage the use of the internet to reduce depressive symptoms levels and promote the physical and mental well-being of this population.

Caregiving-Related Depression Increases Neuroinflammation in Spousal Caregivers to Individuals with Cognitive Impairment: A Longitudinal Study

Abstract Background The caregiving burden of the spousal caregivers (SCGs) to individuals with cognitive impairment poses public health challenges with adverse psychosocial and physiological effects. However, few studies have investigated the neurobiological impact of caregiving, particularly through the investigation of neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Methods Using data from a longitudinal cohort at Chungnam National University Hospital, the relationship between caregiving burden, neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration was examined in 38 older adult couples over a 16-month period. Caregiving burden was assessed through a multifaceted approach. For factors related to the care recipient, we assessed cognitive function and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Factors regarding the SCGs included the measurement of perceived depression. Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) was used as a plasma biomarker for neuroinflammation and neurofilament light chain (NfL) for neurodegeneration. Regression analyses were adjusted for age, sex, apolipoprotein E status, follow-up interval, vascular risk factors, and physical activity. Results Changes in depression among SCGs were significantly correlated with increased GFAP levels (p = 0.003), indicating that greater depressive symptoms during caregiving are associated with increased neuroinflammation. In contrast, no significant correlations were found between changes in cognitive function or neuropsychiatric symptoms in care recipients and the plasma biomarker levels of SCGs. Additionally, there was no significant association between changes in depression and NfL levels in SCGs. Conclusions The psychological stress experienced by SCGs while caring for partners with cognitive impairment actively contributes to neuroinflammation, a well-known risk factor for various diseases. This study emphasizes the need to address psychological stress experienced by older adult caregivers.

Sociodemographic, Educational and Psychological Characteristics in First-Time Consultants of Psychological Care Service

Objective: The purpose of the research was to compare the sociodemographic, educational and psychological characteristics in first-time consultants from university psychological care service after the COVID 19 pandemic. Theoretical Framework: Research has identified the need to characterize the population that receives psychological care as a priority. Method: It was a quantitative study with a cross-sectional, descriptive-correlational design. The sample consisted of 119 people (76.5% women and 23.5% men), who requested the service between the months of February and July 2023. The Anxiety Scale (BAI), the Beck Depression Scale (BDI) were used., in addition to a sociodemographic questionnaire. Results and Discussion: It was found that the population that requested the service was made up mostly of women (76.5%, n=91) of 11-21 years. “Emotional instability” (27.73%) was found as the main reason for consultation, followed by “anxiety symptoms” (17.64%) and “depressive symptoms” (9.24%). Regarding the levels of depression, it was found that 41.2% of the sample is at a moderate level, followed by a severe level in 26.9%. Regarding the levels of anxiety, it was found as mild as moderate degree in 36.1% while 21% of the consultants were at a severe level. According to the Chi Square test, it is concluded that neither depression nor anxiety depend on sex. Research Implications: The data obtained makes it possible to demonstrate the impact on mental health that the pandemic has had on university populations. Originality/Value: The results favor the possibility of developing effective care strategies according to the characterizations found.

The association of compassion with dignity and symptoms in end-of-life cancer patients.

Compassion is essential in palliative care; however, there is a lack of evidence of the association between this construct and patients' dignity-related distress. The present study aimed to investigate the association between end-of-life cancer patients' sense of dignity, the level of compassion of the healthcare professionals (HCPs) noticed and perceived by the patients, and levels of compassion that HCPs felt they had toward patients, investigating through specific attitudes and behaviors. Furthermore, the relationship between compassion and patients' physical and psychological symptoms, such as levels of anxiety and depression, was also investigated. The study was cross-sectional. The sample consisted of 105 end-of-life cancer patients and 40 HCPs. Patients had a Karnofsky Performance Status of 50 or lower and a life expectancy of less than 4 months. For each patient, sociodemographic data were collected, and a set of rating scales assessing compassion, dignity as well as physical and psychological symptoms were administered. The results showed significant negative associations between patients' perception of compassion and dignity-related distress as well as significant negative associations between patients' perception of compassion and patients' symptoms. Compassion seems to be involved in diminishing dignity-related distress and alleviating physical and psychological symptoms. Other studies are needed to understand whether patients' symptoms or whether specific HCPs' conditions influence compassion. Exploring compassion and at the end-of-life could encourage a dignity-conserving care.

Problematic Pornography Use, Mental Health, and Suicidality among Young Adults.

The relationship between suicidality and problematic pornography use (PPU) is not clear, and the limited research data that exists show contradictory results. The present study aims to explore the associations between these two variables in a sample of young adults, taking into account gender differences and the role of loneliness, emotional states, and well-being. A total of 332 national and international students (60% female) at an Italian University with a mean age of 23 years (SD = 2.84) completed an anonymous online survey during the period from March 2023 to May 2023. The results show that PPU was associated with higher levels of anxiety, depression, stress, loneliness, and suicide ideation, as well as lower life satisfaction. Gender comparison analysis revealed significantly higher scores for PPU and loneliness among men, while women scored higher in stress, anxiety, and life satisfaction. Significant correlations between PPU and suicidal ideation and having a suicide plan were established for female participants despite their lower scores in PPU. Multiple regression analysis revealed that PPU and its interaction with gender were both significant predictors of suicidal ideation. Future attention should be paid to how young women may be influenced by exposure to sexually explicit materials, while always considering the role of loneliness.

Examining Psychological Distress and Learned Helplessness in Iranians Chronic Pain Patients with Differing Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Intensity: A Comparative Study

Background: Chronic pain (CP) is defined as persistent, severe pain lasting for more than three months and is often associated with psychological distress (PD) and learned helplessness (LH). Objectives: This study aims to explore the relationship between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), PD, and LH in individuals with CP. Methods: The research employed a descriptive, causal-comparative methodology. The study population consisted of patients referred to pain and physiotherapy clinics in Tehran between 2022 and 2023. From a pool of 300 CP patients, 150 with high-grade PTSD severity and 150 with low-grade PTSD severity were purposively selected. Participants completed PTSD (Blevins et al., 2015), PD (Lovibond &amp; Lovibond, 1995), and LH (Quinnells &amp; Nelson, 1988) questionnaires. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS-24 software, with multivariate analysis of variance used for data analysis (P &lt; 0.005). Results: Among the 300 patients, 52.6% were married, 44.0% held a bachelor’s degree, and 37.4% had musculoskeletal disorders. The findings revealed significant differences in PD and LH levels between the two groups (P &lt; 0.001). Chronic pain patients with high-grade PTSD exhibited greater levels of depression (F = 211.09), anxiety (F = 231.06), stress (F = 374.85), and LH (F = 457.79) compared to those with low-grade PTSD (P &lt; 0.001). Conclusions: This research highlights the significant impact of PTSD severity on PD and LH in individuals with CP. These results emphasize the need to consider psychological factors in the treatment and management of CP.

Loneliness, office space arrangement and mental well-being of Gen Z PR professionals. Falling into the trap of an agile office?

PurposeThe purpose of the study was to assess how the well-being and loneliness of public relations and communication professionals are impacted by the post-pandemic characteristics of the work environment: flexible work schemes, non-territorial office arrangements and video communication technologies. It was hypothesised that the post-pandemic workplace landscape poses several new challenges to the practice of PR – an industry which invariably relies on working with other people and demands a good level of social resilience. Loneliness and well-being both depend on the experience of having good and efficient social relationships, but the pandemic has directly and indirectly led to their deterioration.Design/methodology/approachThe project employed a correlational design and used an online survey system to collect responses from Gen Z professionals employed in the public relations and communications industry in the UK and the US via the Prolific platform. Demographical and workplace-related characteristics were assessed to investigate links with loneliness (measured using a three-item scale adopted from Russell et al., 1980 in Hughes, 2004) and well-being (using a short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale scale). Causal relationships between data were tested using regression analysis for continuous variables and analysis of covariance for categorical factors. Bootstrapping was used to test mediated relationships that explain loneliness, job satisfaction and the well-being of Gen Z PR professionals.FindingsSeveral types of flexible working schemes, defined as the ability to work from home on any number of weeks, showed an impact on loneliness and job satisfaction but not on well-being. However, all remaining aspects of the post-pandemic office did manifest as important predictors. In the sample, 30% of Gen Z PR professionals showed signs of mild to clinical levels of depression, and the best protection from this state was the presence of a significant other. Lower levels of loneliness were related to non-territorial office arrangements and job satisfaction. The use of hot desks and open-plan arrangements led to a significantly lower level of job satisfaction than a traditional, cellular office. Both excessive online meetings and face-to-face only interactions led to marginally lower levels of loneliness and job satisfaction.Research limitations/implicationsThe present research is limited in several aspects. Firstly, while the project evaluated loneliness, job satisfaction and mental well-being (with each of these elements including a component of the requirement for building effective relationships), the quality of relationships built by PR professionals was not measured. Secondly, the project focused only on post-pandemic aspects of the workplace and did not cover other important components of job satisfaction. Lastly, the measure of online meetings was declarative rather than behavioural, and greater control of the number of online meetings held would be required to show more reliable links between variables.Practical implicationsThis study calls for proposing recommendations for employers to develop organisational-level measures and programmes to counteract loneliness. While traditionally intimate relationships of employees were not a direct focus of HR programmes, employers should develop elements of organisational culture that would support employees in building effective intimate relationships. Separately from this, despite immediate financial benefits, employers should avoid using open-space and hot desk policies, as they contribute negatively to job satisfaction (and indirectly to well-being). The sample of UK and US professionals was chosen for analysis because in these countries employers have more capacity to introduce changes to tangible characteristics of the workplace and work culture, which may positively impact the well-being of their employees.Social implicationsIt is expected that both employers and employees will revisit their approach to post-pandemic financial and logistic challenges related to the workplace. A lower level of job satisfaction and well-being is linked to the lack of assigned office space, but the ability to work exclusively from home leads to loneliness. Employees – when offered this possibility – should work in offices they are provided. Employers must appreciate the negative link between open and hot-desking policies and job satisfaction and well-being of their employees.Originality/valueThis study is the first to examine the post-pandemic workplace and personal characteristics of public relations and communications professionals in the UK and US and show how they impact job satisfaction and well-being. The study shows that 30% of employed in the PR industry are at risk of depression or anxiety. The connecting factor between personal and work-related characteristics that explains this problem is loneliness.