Levels Of Anxiety Research Articles

Psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Taiwanese youth: soldiers and college students

Researchers have identified university students and military personnel as highly susceptible to the stress and emotional challenges imposed by the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The objective of this study was to compare the psychological impact of COVID-19 on soldiers and students based on risk factors identified in self reports. We recruited 258 students (male: female = 58: 204, average age = 19.73 ± 1.52 years) and 194 active soldiers (male: female = 172: 22, average age = 24.88 ± 4.11 years) from northern Taiwan. Analysis was performed on demographic data, history of COVID-19 infection, vaccinations, and the subjective psychological impact of the pandemic, as well as their current (within one month) anxiety levels, depression level, and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Descriptive statistics and linear regression analysis models were used to compare soldier vs. student status and male vs. female. Overall, roughly 54% of the subjects had been infected by COVID-19 at least once, and the psychological impact of the pandemic was more pronounced in the infected group. The students reported more pronounced symptoms of PTSD (elevated anxiety and depression levels) than did the soldiers. All regression models other than those associated with age and sex revealed that the link between COVID-19 infection and the symptoms of PTSD was more salient among soldiers and males than among students and females. It appears that the psychological impact of COVID-19 is underreported by soldiers. These findings indirectly support previous research indicating that soldiers are less likely than students to disclose emotions related to trauma, indicating the need for psychological support for military personnel.

Effect of healthy dietary intention-behavior (in)consistency on depression and anxiety in the process of behavior change.

Although an increasing number of people are now committed to pursuing a healthy diet, it remains unclear how mental health changes during this process. The present study aimed to examine the combined effect of healthy dietary intention and behavior on depression and anxiety across two sub-studies. This study consisted of two parts: a cross-sectional survey (Study 1) involving 1,433 college students and an 11-day daily diary study (Study 2) with 117 college students. Polynomial regression and response surface analysis indicated that in cases of congruence, individuals' intention and behavior align at a high level and were associated with lower levels of depression and anxiety in the motivational phase but were not found similar association in the volitional phase. In cases of incongruence, individuals with high intention-low behavior tend to experience lower levels of depression and anxiety in the motivational phase. However, individuals with high intention-low behavior tend to experience higherlevels of depression and anxiety in the volitional phase. These findings not only enrich the current understanding of diet and health but also contribute to the development of holistic strategies for promoting a healthy diet.

Assessing Anxiety and Satisfaction Levels among Dental Students during Online Learning amid the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic led to widespread adoption of online learning. In April 2020, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan released policy guidance on online readiness with three levels: basic, effective, and exemplary. However, concerns about the quality and readiness for online curriculum delivery in Pakistan persisted. This study assesses the anxiety and satisfaction levels of undergraduate dental students with online classes during the pandemic. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted between June and July 2020. Data were collected via email from undergraduate dental students of a private dental college using convenience sampling, after three months of online teaching. Two tools were used: a student satisfaction questionnaire adapted from Bolliger and Halupa’s study, and a student anxiety questionnaire. Frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations were calculated for satisfaction and anxiety scores. Univariate and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to assess factors associated with student satisfaction. Results: Out of 300 eligible participants, 237 responded (79% response rate). Most participants (53.16% female, 59.07% hostellers) had no prior experience with online learning (85.65%). The mean anxiety score was 54.87 (SD=9.6), and the mean satisfaction score was 58.63 (SD=16.66). Male students showed less satisfaction than females, though not statistically significant. Second-year students had significantly higher satisfaction scores than third- and fourth-year students. Conclusion: Most students had no prior experience with online learning, resulting in increased anxiety and poor satisfaction with the modality during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Effects of a mobile health intervention based on a multitheoretical model of health behavior change on anxiety and depression, fear of cancer progression, and quality of life in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer: A randomized controlled trial

BackgroundDespite the high cure rate of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC), patients endure side effects from treatment and psychological distress, impacting their quality of life. The potential of mobile health (mHealth) interventions to address these issues remains unexplored. The purpose of this study is to develop an mHealth intervention based on the Multi-Theoretical Model of Health Behavior Change (MTM) and evaluate its impact on reducing anxiety, depression, fear of cancer progression, and enhancing quality of life in DTC patients.MethodsA single-blind, single-center, prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted. One hundred and eleven consecutive DTC patients from Harbin Medical University’s Fourth Hospital were enrolled from March 2023 to March 2024. Participants were randomized into a control group and an intervention group that received a 3-month mHealth intervention based on MTM theory. Outcomes were assessed using web-based questionnaires at baseline and conclusion.ResultsOne hundred four patients with DTC completed the study, with 7 lost to follow-up (6.3%). The intervention group experienced a significant drop in PHQ-4 scores post-MTM-mHealth intervention (P < .026), with no change in the control group, demonstrating a significant difference. The intervention group also had significantly lower anxiety (P < .015) and depression (P < .032) scores compared to controls. All PHQ-4 scores improved in the intervention group except for “Little interest or pleasure in doing things.” Anxiety levels were significantly lower in the intervention group (P < .026) but remained unchanged in controls. The control group exhibited a significant increase in FCR-4 scores at follow-up, differing from the intervention group (P < 0.001). Quality of life scores did not differ at baseline but saw a significant improvement in the intervention group, while the control group experienced no significant change. The intervention group had higher VAS scores (P < .030) and greater health education satisfaction across all dimensions (P < .019).ConclusionsThe MTM-based mHealth intervention significantly benefits DTC patients by reducing anxiety, fear of cancer recurrence, and improving quality of life, though its effect on depression requires further investigation.Trial registrationChina Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2200064321.

Determining the Impact of Adaptive Games on the Individuals’ Psycho-Emotional State among Different Age Groups in Poland and Ukraine

Objectives. The study aimed to determine the effectiveness of implementating projects for the introduction of adaptive sports games on the psycho-emotional state of different population groups in Poland and Ukraine. Materials and methods. A total of 341 individuals were involved in the study: 117 children (8-12 years old), 118 middle-aged people (35-60 years old), and 116 elderly people (60 years and older). The participants of the study were divided into two groups: those who took part in the Polish project “Academic Center of Sports and Health Games for Activation of People with Special Needs” (56 children, 65 adults, 73 elderly people), and those who took part in the Polish-Ukrainian project, which was conducted directly in Ukraine, “Ukrainian Center of Occupational Therapy through Adaptive Games” (61 children, 53 adults, 44 elderly people). All study participants were engaged in adaptive games (Cornhole, Jacollo, Elastik, Kulbutto, Boccia, Paka laka) for the first time. At the beginning and end of the event on adaptive games, a survey of participants was conducted. To determine the psycho-emotional state of children, the WAM method (well-being, activity, mood) was used, and the features of adults’ psychological state were assessed using the standard test AWAMW (anxiety, working capacity, activity, mood, well-being). Results. The analysis of the obtained study results revealed positive changes in the psycho-emotional state of different population groups in Poland and Ukraine under the influence of adaptive sports games. Furthermore, the adult population, including the elderly of Poland and Ukraine, demonstrated decreased anxiety levels and a significant enhancement in activity, mood and well-being due to engaging in adaptive sports games. Conclusions. This study emphasizes the potential of adaptive sports games to improve the mental health of different population groups. The findings also indicate the effectiveness of implementating projects for the introduction of adaptive games on the psycho-emotional state of different population groups both in Poland and Ukraine.

Sharing channel choices for electric vehicle battery manufacturers when considering range anxiety among heterogeneous consumers

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the optimal pricing decisions and shared channel strategy selection of battery manufacturers considering heterogeneous consumers' range anxiety.Design/methodology/approachAmidst the rapid growth of the electric vehicle sector, countries are promoting upgrades in the automotive industry. However, insufficient driving range causes consumer range anxiety. The study utilizes the Stackelberg game model to assess how range anxiety influences battery manufacturers' pricing and channel strategy decisions across three strategies.FindingsWe find that electric vehicle battery manufacturers' decisions to cooperate with third-party sharing platforms (TPSPs) are primarily influenced by fixed costs and consumer range anxiety levels. As range anxiety increases, the cost threshold for joining shared channels rises, reducing cooperation likelihood. However, considering diverse consumer needs, especially a higher proportion of leisure-oriented consumers, increases the likelihood of cooperation. Furthermore, higher battery quality makes direct participation in shared channels more probable.Originality/valueIn the electric vehicle industry, range anxiety is a significant concern. While existing literature focuses on its impact on consumer behavior and charging infrastructure, this study delves into battery manufacturers' strategic responses, offering insights into channel options and pricing strategies amidst diverse consumer segments.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare workers

Purpose This paper aims to examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare workers’ perception of job pressure as well as their anxiety and depression levels. Design/methodology/approach Survey data were collected from 109 healthcare workers enrolled in two MBA courses in Healthcare Human Resources Management at a university in the Southern USA, respectively, Fall 2020 and Fall 2021. A path analysis was conducted to test a model of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare workers’ perception of job pressure as well as their anxiety and depression levels. Findings The study results showed treatment of COVID-19 patients led to increased work hours for healthcare workers; changes in work hours and work methods were related to healthcare workers’ perception of job pressure; healthcare workers perceptions of job pressure were positively related to their anxiety levels; organizational support was negatively related to healthcare workers’ anxiety levels; and healthcare workers’ anxiety levels were positively related to their depression levels. Originality/value Findings from the tested model provide support for the Job Demands-Resources model in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The effect of music therapy on anxiety and pain scores in patients undergoing retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) under spinal anesthesia: a prospective, randomized controlled clinical trial.

To prospectively investigate the effect of music therapy on patient's anxiety and pain level during retrograde intrarenal surgery under spinal anesthesia. 286 patients aged above 18 years, who underwent Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery (RIRS) under spinal anesthesia for renal or ureteral calculi were evaluated between January 2023 and June 2023 by a prospective, randomized, controlled clinical protocol. Patients were randomized into 2 groups. Group 1 included patients, who listened to music, and Group 2 was comprised of patients, who were not allowed to listen to music. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) results and pain sensation, anxiety level, together with the results of State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), a self-reported anxiety inventory, were captured. The number of patients, who were randomized to the music group (Group 1) and non-music group (Group 2) was 144 and 142, respectively. Mean heart rate in Group 1 and Group 2 was 60 ± 4.19 and 70 ± 8.36, respectively (p = 0.02), indicative of the fact that mean heart rate was significantly lower in the music group. Heart rate measured post-operatively within the first hour subsequent to the procedure was similar in both groups (p < 0.05). The VAS score was significantly lower in Group 1. STAI score in Group 1 and Group 2 was 45.51 ± 2.968 and 49.16 ± 1.88, respectively. Therefore, there was a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001). Music therapy during the RIRS procedure under spinal anesthesia was associated with a significantly decrease in pain and anxiety scores in patients.

Aromatherapy Using Lavender Oil Effectiveness on Pain and Anxiety After C-Section: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Managing postoperative setting, regarding pain and anxiety after cesarean delivery is crucial for the mother's recovery, her emotional well-being, mother-infant bonding and initiating breastfeeding. Although some research have suggested that aromatherapy with lavender essential oil can be effective in reducing pain and anxiety in various medical settings, the efficacy of lavender aromatherapy in the postoperative setting after cesarean delivery is less well-studied. We aimed to assess the effectiveness of lavender essential oil therapy in the management of pain and anxiety after cesarean delivery. This was a monocentric randomized controlled double-blind trial conducted over a period of five months during 2023. A hundred women undergoing c-sections under spinal anesthesia were enrolled and randomly assigned; using block randomization of 4 items per block with allocation ratio 1:1, into two groups: The aromatherapy group (receiving inhaled Lavender essential oil) versus the placebo group (receiving distilled water instead). The primary outcomes were pain (at rest and after mobilization) and anxiety levels and after the intervention. This trial was registered on clinical-trials.org (NCT06387849). A total of 100 women were included (50 women in each group aromatherapy and the placebo group). The two groups were comparable regarding baseline characteristics and pre-intervention parameters with no statistically significant difference. After the intervention, the pain at rest (38,76 ± 22,9 vs. 23,84 ± 18,01; p < 0.001), the pain after mobilization (60,28 ± 23,72 vs. 40,12 ± 22,18; p < 0.001), and degree of anxiety (46,76 ± 6,59 vs. 44,3 ± 5,17; p = 0.03) were all significantly lower in the aromatherapy group. No adverse effects were reported by participants in both groups. Aromatherapy using Lavender essential oil is effective in reducing pain and anxiety after cesarean delivery without adverse effects.

Photobiomodulation therapy on puncture-associated pain: A controlled randomized double-blind clinical trial.

Dental fear and phobia are prevalent worldwide, with local anesthesia being the most feared procedure. This study aimed to determine whether photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), used as a pre-anesthetic, could modulate puncture pain and enhance the effectiveness of local anesthesia. In this controlled, randomized, double-blind study, 49 participants were divided into an experimental group (n = 24), which received infrared laser therapy (100 mW, at 808 nm, 8 J, 80 s at a single point) immediately before standard anesthesia; and control group (n = 25), which received the standard anesthetic technique and sham laser. Pain levels were measured using the visual analog scale, and anesthetic efficacy was assessed through electrical tests (latency), percentage of failures, and cartridge usage. Anxiety levels were evaluated using the Beck Anxiety Inventory. Cardiovascular parameters were evaluated through blood pressure, oxygen levels, and heart rate. This randomized, double-blind study found no difference between groups in these experimental conditions. The bias toward a positive PBMT result was sufficiently removed. Autonomic responses of the PBMT group were maintained stable during the procedure.

Monitoring and measuring noise pollution in urban environments (Case study: Khorramabad city)

Introduction: Environmental noise, caused by traffic, leads to increased risk of health problems. Nowadays, noise pollution is one of the most important problems in the communities which adversely affects the health. The aim of this study was to assess the noise pollution in Khorramabad city. Materials and methods: To measure the noise level in the city, 39 stations near to sensitive places such as hospitals, educational centers, and so on were selected. Measurements were performed, for 30 min, in the mornings (7-10 AM) and evenings (5-8 PM) using a standard sound level meter. The measurements were made on working days during the week and assuming the traffic load was the same. Results: The sound level in all 39 considered stations was higher than the standard of residential-commercial in more than 90% of the stations compared to the environmental standard. The mean of sound measured in the monitored stations was equal to 68.28±2.6 dB. The maximum measured sound level belonged to station S2. In station S2, the maximum measured sound was reported as 81.72±11.3 dB. The findings showed that sound level in the evenings were slightly higher than the mornings. Also, in the evening, the highest and lowest measured sound values belonged to stations S1 and S20. The amount of measured sound level at stations S1 and S20 was equal to 80.9 and 39.7 dB, respectively. Based on findings, the highest and lowest sound recorded belonged to stations S39 and S20 which area type of stations S20 and S39 was commercial and residential, respectively. Conclusion: This study showed that the average level of sound pressure was higher than the permissible limit, so the necessity of planning is suggested to reduce the level of noise pollution and consequently reduce the anxiety level of citizens and increase health.

Health Education Nursing Based on BCW Theory Improve Negative Psychology, Sleep and Quality of Life in Elderly Patients After Cardiac Interventional Surgery: A Retrospective Study

Objective: Guided by Behavior Change Wheel (BCW) theory, a rehabilitation nursing intervention program for patients after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was constructed. This study aimed to explore the impact of this intervention program on the negative emotions, sleep quality, and quality of life of patients after PCI. Methods: Patients with coronary heart disease after PCI who visited the cardiology department in our hospital from September 2022 to February 2024 were selected as the research subjects. The patients were divided into two groups according to the order of the operation time: 57 cases in the conventional group and 56 in the BCW group. The systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and resting heart rate (RHR) of the two groups before the administration (T1) and at the end of 3 month administration (T2) were evaluated. The Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), self-rating depression scale, Pittsburgh sleep quality index, and quality of life scale were used in measuring the anxiety, depression, sleep quality, and quality of life levels of the two groups of patients at two-time points. Results: A total of 113 cases were included: 57 cases in the conventional group and 56 in the BCW group. The BCW group had larger improvements in RHR and blood pressure than the conventional group (p &lt; 0.05). The SAS and Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS) scores of the BCW group were significantly lower than those in the conventional group (p &lt; 0.05). After nursing based on the BCW model was implemented, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores of the patients in the BCW group were lower than those in the conventional group (p &lt; 0.001). After 3 months of administration, the SF-36 total score and other dimensional scores in the BCW group were higher than those in the conventional group (p &lt; 0.05), and no significant difference was observed between the groups before administration (p &gt; 0.05). Conclusion: Intervention programs based on BCW theory may help to reduce patients' depression and anxiety levels, potentially exerting positive effects that improve RHR and cardiac function in patients after coronary intervention and improving patients' sleep and life quality.

The effect of viral anxiety experienced by nurses working in pediatric service on psychological factors during Covid-19 period

During the Covid-19 period, nurses, as healthcare professionals, have been under a great workload, and their anxiety levels have also increased their psychological effects. Therefore, this study was conducted to examine the effect of viral anxiety experienced by nurses working in the pediatric ward during the Covid-19 period on psychological factors. This is a descriptive study. Permission was obtained from Hakkari University Scientific Research and Publication Ethics Committee for research permission. Sociodemographic data were collected online from 1200 nurses working in the pediatric service who voluntarily participated in the study between October 13, 2023 and December 25, 2023 using the sociodemographic data collection form and the stress and anxiety scale for health workers due to virus epidemic-9 items (SAVE-9), Patient health questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Obsession with Covid-19 Scale (OCS), Reassurance-seeking behavior scale against coronavirus (CRBS). In order to compare SAVE, PHQ, OCS and CRBS scale scores according to sociodemographic information and vaccination status variables, independent groups t test one-way variance analysis Levene's F test was applied and data were analyzed using a statistical package program. It is understood that 59.9% of the participants are male and 40.1% are female. The proportion of married participants was 95.4%. The results of the scores obtained from the SAVE and PHQ scales show that the stress and anxiety related to the virus epidemic are above the middle level, the result of the OCS scale score shows that the dysfunctional thoughts associated with the coronavirus, and the scores obtained from the CRBS Total scale show that the assurance-seeking behavior is exhibited according to the results. The effect of viral anxiety on the psychological factor according to sociodemographic characteristics (gender, age, marital status, socioeconomic status, educational status, working area in pediatric service, vaccination status) showed significant and different results according to scale scores. It was concluded that the viral anxiety experienced by the nurses working in the pediatric service during the Covid-19 period showed different characteristics in terms of psychological factors and sociodemographic characteristics, and the nurses were not very effective due to the decrease in the effect of Covid-19.

Association between personal characteristics and anxiety and burnout in orthopedic residents: a cross-sectional cross-sectional study

ObjectiveBurnout is becoming a major problem in medicine, and some articles have pointed to the link between burnout and anxiety. Several factors can contribute to burnout and anxiety, and recognizing each can improve medical education environments. The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between personal characteristics, anxiety and burnout of orthopedic residents.MethodIn this cross-sectional study, the anxiety rate, depression, and burnout were evaluated in 94 orthopedic residents above the second year and orthopedic fellowships in three hospitals. Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and Maslach Burnout Inventory—Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS) were used to measure the levels of depression, anxiety, and burnout, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate predictor variables for burnout.ResultsSevere anxiety and depression were reported in 17% and 12.77% of residents, respectively. The rate of burnout for Emotional Exhaustion (EE), Depersonalization (DP), and low sense of Personal Accomplishment (PA) subscales was 18.09%, 28.72%, and 43.62% of people with high levels of burnout, respectively. Multivariate analysis of logistic regression showed that Works > 60 h per week, Anxiety score > 28, Time spent in the hospital > 9 h per Day, Academic year and Experience being abused by the upstream, Balance between work and life, Feeling the need for support from nurses in the hospital were significantly associated with burnout.Conclusionstress and anxiety can be considered a severe factor in burnout; this issue can provide a clear perspective of the psychological cycle that ultimately leads to a decrease in the efficiency of the medical system and related services.

Impact of Virtual Reality Intervention on Anxiety and Level of Cooperation in Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder during the Dental Examination.

Background: Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) frequently encounter increased levels of anxiety and display resistant behaviors during dental examinations, which negatively affects their oral care and maintenance. This study employed a cross-sectional design to evaluate the impact of virtual reality (VR) intervention on the anxiety and level of cooperation in children and adolescents with ASD during dental examinations. Methods: A total of 140 participants diagnosed with ASD, aged from 4- to 18-years-old, were selected from two specialized ASD management centers in Riyadh/Saudi Arabia. The participants were randomly allocated into either the control group or the VR group. Control group participants were subjected to a conventional dental examination, while the VR group utilized VR intervention to immerse themselves in a simulated natural and soothing environment. The Venham anxiety and behavior scale (VABS) was utilized to measure anxiety levels, while the Frankl behavior rating scale (FBRS) was employed to assess the level of cooperation. Data were analyzed using a Mann-Whitney U test with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: The baseline anxiety and level of cooperation between the groups were comparable (p > 0.05). During the dental examination, the VR group had significantly reduced anxiety scores (2.48 ± 1.76) compared to the control group (1.50 ± 1.74) (p < 0.001). Regarding the level of cooperation, the VR group exhibited significantly greater levels of cooperation (3.41 ± 0.96) than the control group (2.86 ± 1.03) (p = 0.002). Conclusions: These findings suggest that VR intervention is a successful technique for decreasing anxiety and enhancing cooperation among children with ASD during dental examination. Integrating VR technology in dental environments can potentially improve the dental experience and results for children diagnosed with ASD.

The association between religiosity, suicidality, psychological distress, and quality of life among breast cancer patients, an example of a Middle Eastern population.

The study aimed to explore the relationship between religiosity, psychological distress, and quality of life (QOL) in Saudi breast cancer patients. Utilizing a multi-center cross-sectional design, 277 patients were recruited. Patients completed questionnaires assessing religiosity, depression, anxiety, suicidality, and QOL. Results revealed a high prevalence of depression (35.7%) and anxiety (18.1%), with no significant variations in internal religiosity across different health stages, despite high levels of perceived social support. Suicidal ideation was reported by a small proportion of patients (2.5%). Multivariate analysis identified anxiety, therapy side effects, and breast symptoms as significant predictors of depression, while depression and previous psychiatric treatment predicted anxiety levels. QOL assessments indicated that body image received the highest satisfaction ratings, while sexual function received the lowest. These findings highlight the critical need for integrated mental health support in the treatment regimen of breast cancer patients.

Coping style as a predictor of anxiety in relatives of patients with mental illness-a single-center study

BackgroundRelatives of patients with mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and depression experience significant levels of anxiety. Accurately predicting their anxiety levels is crucial for the development of effective anti-anxiety interventions aimed at mitigating associated adverse outcomes.MethodsIn this cross-sectional study, 238 relatives of patients with mental illness were recruited, and their responses were collected using the generalised anxiety disorder-7 (GAD-7) and simplified coping style questionnaire (SCSQ) scales. One-way analysis of variance and t-test were used to assess the mean scores of GAD-7 and SCSQ among relatives with varying characteristics. Pearson’s correlations were used to examine the correlation between anxiety levels and coping style. Multi-level regression analyses were used to identify the impact of the independent variables on anxiety.ResultsAmong all relatives of patients with mental illness who participated in this survey, 238 completed the questionnaire. Females exhibited a higher mean GAD-7 score (9.72 ± 0.25) compared to males. Among participants aged 18–25 years, the GAD-7 (8.12 ± 0.17) score was the highest. Additionally, relatives of patients experiencing their first episode or with a disease duration of < 1 year, as well as relatives of patients with schizophrenia and depression, displayed higher GAD-7 scores. Correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between anxiety and SCSQ (negative coping styles) (r = 0.476, p < 0.01). Multi-level regression analyses demonstrated that demographic variables (R2 = 0.474, F = 21.402, p < 0.01) and SCSQ (R2 change = 0.638, F = 37.526, p < 0.01) were significantly and positively associated with anxiety among relatives of patients with mental illness.ConclusionsMost relatives of patients with mental illness experience varying levels of anxiety, which are influenced by their coping styles.

Predictors of treatment response trajectories to cognitive behavioral therapy for chronic fatigue syndrome: A cohort study

BackgroundThe response to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) varies greatly between patients, but predictors of treatment success remain to be elucidated. We aimed to identify patient subgroups based on fatigue trajectory during CBT, identify pre-treatment predictors of subgroup membership, and disentangle the direction of predictor – outcome relationships over time. Methods297 individuals with CFS were enrolled in a standardized CBT program consisting of 17 sessions, with session timing variable between participants. Self-reported levels of fatigue, depressive, anxiety, and somatic symptoms, perceived stress, and positive affect were collected pre-treatment, and after 3, 10, and 15 sessions. Latent Class Growth Analysis (LCGA) was used to identify subgroups based on fatigue trajectories and baseline predictors of group membership. Cross-lagged structural equation models were used to disentangle predictor-outcome relationships. ResultsLCGA identified four fatigue trajectory subgroups, which were labelled as “no improvement” (23 %), “weak improvement” (45 %), “moderate improvement” (23 %), and “strong improvement” (9 %) classes. Higher pre-treatment levels of depressive, anxiety, and somatic symptoms, stress, and lower levels of positive affect predicted membership of the “no improvement” subgroup. Reductions in anxiety preceded reductions in fatigue, while the depressive symptoms – fatigue relationship was bidirectional. ConclusionsOn a group level, there were statistically significant reductions in fatigue after 15 sessions of CBT, with important individual differences in treatment response. Higher pre-treatment levels of anxious, depressive, and somatic symptoms and perceived stress are predictors of lack of response, with reductions in anxiety and stress preceding improvements in fatigue.

AI-CiciBot as Conversational Partners in EFL Education, focusing on Intelligent Technology Adoption (ITA) to Mollify Speaking Anxiety

This study examines the role of AI-CiciBot as a conversational partner in mitigating speaking anxiety among Indonesian EFL (English as a Foreign Language) students. The aim is to explore the integration of intelligent technology adoption (ITA) into classrooms to enhance language learning and reduce anxiety during speaking activities. The primary gap addressed in this research is the lack of technology-based solutions for oral language practice in Indonesia, where traditional curricula emphasize reading and writing over speaking. This study aims to fill the gap by introducing AI-CiciBot, a novel AI-powered conversational tool that provides a supportive, low-pressure environment for students to practice speaking English. The study uses a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from pre-test and post-test scores and qualitative insights from student interviews. The research tools include a questionnaire and an AI-CiciBot platform for speaking practice. IBM SPSS Statistics analyzed the data, focusing on students' speaking performance and anxiety levels before and after using AI-CiciBot. Findings in this study show a significant improvement in students' speaking skills and a reduction in anxiety. The mean score for pre-tests was 49.17, which increased to 90.47 in post-tests, indicating AI-CiciBot's effectiveness. Interviews revealed that students initially hesitant to engage in speaking activities due to fear of judgment became more confident and willing to participate after practicing with the AI bot. This study contributes to the field of EFL education by demonstrating the potential of AI-driven tools like AI-CiciBot to address speaking anxiety and improve oral proficiency. It also highlights the importance of ITA in encouraging students to embrace AI-based learning solutions. To maximize learning outcomes, future research should investigate the long-term impact of AI-CiciBot on students' speaking proficiency and its integration with human instructors.

A Study on the Relationship Between Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression and Anxiety Symptoms and the Quality of Life of Syrian Refugees: Case Study for the Province of Kayseri.

The aim of this study is to investigate the factors related to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and anxiety mental disorders, as well as the quality of life of Syrian refugees and to examine the relationships between mental health disorders and the quality of life of Syrian refugees. Data were collected via face-to-face surveys with 613 adult Syrian refugees in an urban setting. Brislin's methodology was used for translating scale items, involving initial translation, back-translation and review by another professional translator. The study utilised the PTSD Scale, Beck Anxiety Scale, Depression Scale and Quality of Life Scale (QOLS). Descriptive, correlational and multivariate regression analysis were applied. Findings of correlational analysis indicate that PTSD levels among Syrian refugees are significantly related to gender, income level and employment. Depression levels are significantly associated with trauma history, healthcare service use, marital status and employment. Anxiety levels are significantly related to gender, trauma history, healthcare service use, employment and income. According to the findings of the regression analyses, the relationships between depression, quality of life and PTSD are complex. Meanwhile, anxiety decreases quality of life and increases PTSD. Quality of life moderates the relationship between depression and PTSD, as well as between anxiety and PTSD. The study concludes that the mental disorder levels of Syrian refugees, in terms of PTSD, depression and anxiety, are linked to their socio-demographic characteristics. These results highlight the importance of social, economic and cultural factors, healthcare and social services and the socio-demographic characteristics of the region where refugees have settled after displacement.