Life Conditions Research Articles

Community-based Disease Prevention and Health Promotion: Promoting Digital Health Literacy among People in Precarious Living Conditions

The rapidly advancing digital transformation is opening up innovative opportunities for disease prevention and health promotion, particularly through sociotechnical innovations. Digitally-enabled interventions serve as augmentative tools for disseminating health-related information and promoting individual empowerment and self-efficacy. Despite their potential, digital media in community-based disease prevention and health promotion face challenges, such as the need for low-threshold design and consideration of technological acceptance factors. People in precarious life situations, who often face limited access and lower literacy towards digital technologies, could benefit from targeted measures geared to their specific needs. At the same time, it is important to highlight the risks of insufficient digital health literacy, which can have a negative impact on health. Promoting digital health literacy therefore appears to be an essential tool for improving the health situation of people in precarious living circumstances. This article argues for evidence-based and targeted further development of digital interventions for health promotion that are tailored to the needs of people in precarious living conditions and emphasizes the central role of digital health literacy in this process. In this contribution, the area of early childhood intervention is considered for exemplification.

P211 Evaluation of the M371 test under real life conditions for the diagnosis of testicular germ cell cancer

P211 Evaluation of the M371 test under real life conditions for the diagnosis of testicular germ cell cancer

Examining the Effectiveness of Dissuasive Taxes as a Policy Tool for Reducing Tobacco and Alcohol Consumption in Cameroon: A Welfare and Microsimulation Analysis

Deterrent taxes are a crucial policy tool for reducing the consumption of harmful products like tobacco and alcohol. However, assessing dissuasive taxes impact different income groups is important to ensure that their burden is not disproportionately borne by low-income households. This study examines the effectiveness of deterrent taxes as an economic policy tool for reducing tobacco and alcohol consumption in Cameroon. We analyse the impact on household welfare and distributional effects using microsimulation analysis. The data come from the Cameroon Household Living Conditions Survey and the 2022 tax records. Our methodology is based on a dynamic computable general equilibrium (CGE) model enriched with an addiction model. The results indicate that deterrent taxes can significantly reduce the consumption of these harmful products but also have regressive effects on low-income households. In response, we recommend the adoption of a progressive tax structure and the establishment of targeted support programmes to mitigate the negative impact on vulnerable populations.

Exploring Coping Strategies of Homeless Former Prisoners in Chow Kit Road, Kuala Lumpur

Subsisting on the streets requires homeless former prisoners to execute coping strategies, which were suggested in three major categories, namely, problemsolving-focused, emotion-focused, and avoidance. A lack of understanding exists regarding the coping strategies that homeless former prisoners utilise in navigating extremely challenging life conditions on the streets. Three strategies were selected and scrutinised in the current study to explore the key coping mechanism frequently employed by homeless former prisoners in tackling subsistence problems or challenges on the streets. A qualitative approach was administered by interviewing 30 homeless former prisoners to identify personal preferences for coping strategies. The findings revealed that the coping mechanisms were regularly employed simultaneously depending on the circumstances. Particularly, a higher tendency was demonstrated in applying avoidance coping operations, including drug abuse, solitude, pleasure-seeking activities, and worship, amongst homeless former prisoners. Nevertheless, homeless former prisoners also applied problem-solving focused coping strategies by searching for potential methods of higher income generation to improve their survival prospects. Summarily, formerly incarcerated individuals implemented coping strategies either collectively or interchangeably, subject to their current situations with varying suitabilities when subsisting on the streets. The implementation of these enhancements, along with greater integration of collective coping, will contribute to the advancement of significant intervention research. Research into coping strategies among homeless former prisoners can shed light on how these individuals adapt to life outside the prison system, how they develop survival skills, and how these skills may influence their behaviour and attitudes after release. Studying coping mechanisms post-release can offer insights into the challenges these individuals face when transitioning back into society

Comparison of deep learning-based models for detection of diseased trees using an image compression algorithm

The object of the research is the application of deep learning algorithms using an improved mathematical lossless image compression method for recognizing and identifying dead trees in aerospace images. The main problem that has been solved is the archiving of images due to their large volume on disk and the possibility of their further processing by deep learning methods such as convolutional and capsule neural networks, which have shown high efficiency and accuracy in image recognition and classification tasks using the proposed new image compression method. The article presents a comparative analysis of the performance of three YOLO (You Only Look Once) models with different types of architectures, such as YOLOv5, YOLOv7 and YOLOv8, to assess the effectiveness of their work for the task of recognizing aerospace tree images obtained from satellites, drones, and aircrafts. Comprehensive analysis of YOLO models presents that model YOLO v8 turned out to be most effective with a positive accuracy of 88.2 %, a recall of 77.4 %, and a mAP50 score of 87.2 %. Moreover, the average detection time was only 0.052 seconds for each image, even though the model size remains very small – 21.5 MB. These results suggest a much better usage of time and precise identification of dead trees, and classified targets with high efficiency. From the research, there is significant prospects of global forest management especially on forest reduction and protection of ecosystems through accurate assessment on the health of forestry. The proposed approach is universal and can be used in real life conditions, providing a good compromise of the speed, accuracy and resources required for forest monitoring and management

Prison Reform and Persistent Risks to Prison Living Conditions: Evidence from Romania

In recent years, some European countries have implemented prison reform to align prison environments with international human rights standards. However, some countries, such as Romania, have systematically failed to meet these standards and faced sanctions. This study explores the aspects of the Romanian prison environment frequently identified as non-compliant during two decades of reform. Characteristics of the living space, hygiene, social density, and relationships were observed in a survey in four large penitentiary units. The units varied in detention regimes, building characteristics, and monitoring frequency. Two aspects emerged as very important for the quality of prison life: the need to improve the built environment (as it can be aged, degraded and not up to the required standards) and the importance of its governance.

Living conditions in Italian administrative detention centres for migrants: a scoping review

Abstract Since 2011, Italy has experienced a growing flow of migrants, despite the implementation of restrictive and detention-oriented procedures. Detention facilities for migrants must provide health protection and general assistance to the person. Considering the critical state of the centres reported by various sources, this study gives an overview of the conditions in Italian detention facilities for migrants from a public health perspective. A scoping search of the peer-reviewed and grey literature was performed to investigate the public health standards currently in force in Italian detention facilities for migrants and refugees (Hotspot and CPR-Pre-removal Detention Centres). Articles published from 2009 to 2021 in English and Italian were included and qualitatively described in five categories: provision of healthcare, living conditions, protection of vulnerable detainees, access to legal advice, and the Covid-19 pandemic. 11 peer-reviewed studies and 24 grey documents were included. Guidelines on screening procedures for infectious diseases or vaccines appeared to be hastily followed; chronic and mental diseases were not appropriately addressed. The facilities were described as run-down, with scarce and poor-quality meals, and lacking of educational activities. A lack of protection for vulnerable categories was reported, including unaccompanied minors. The Covid-19 pandemic further exacerbated pre-existing issues, highlighting systemic weaknesses in preparedness and response. Life conditions within the centres for migrants in Italy fall significantly short of acceptable standards. The main problems are the unavailability of cultural mediation services and the insufficient protection of mental health. The overall conditions appeared to be not dignifying and violations of the law are, if not frequent, present and well recognised. Urgent reforms are warranted to address these shortcomings and ensure the humane treatment and protection of migrants within these facilities. Key messages • Italy is responding to the recent inflow of migrants with policies oriented to detention and repatriation. To this, it established de-facto detention centres for migrants, namely Hotspot and CPRs. • The public health standards of migrants’ repatriation centres are poorly followed and life inside the centres appears misereble.

Civic participation and self-reported health: An intersectional comparative study in Europe

Abstract Background Civic participation has been associated with better self-reported health (SRH). However, how does the association between civic participation and SRH vary by sex and migration status? This study aims to examine the association between social and political determinants of health and SRH in an intersectional perspective. Methods We use data from 26 countries in the 2022 EU Statistics on Income and Living Conditions (EU-SILC) (n = 425,178, 18-80 y.o.), following an intercategorical approach. Eight intersectional groups are created based on sex, migration status and being socially/politically active (participation in activities related to active citizenship or in formal/informal voluntary activities). Multilevel (ML) logistic regression models are employed to assess the association between these groups and SRH, controlling for age and educational level. Results 24.6% of the sample indicate to be socially or politically active, with significant differences between sexes and migration status. A higher proportion of non-migrant active men report good SRH compared to the other intersectional groups (95.2%). Preliminary results from the ML logistic models show that being active increases the likelihood of good SRH (OR = 1.77, 95% CI 1.72-1.83). Migrant active women report better SRH than their non-active counterparts (OR = 1.27, 95% CI 1.12-1.44). Conclusions Findings suggest that being socially/politically active has a positive impact on SRH, especially among foreign women living in European countries. The study highlights the importance of considering civic (both political and social) participation as health determinant and the need of investing in social capital as a way of health promotion, tackling health inequalities and the marginalisation of at-risk groups. Key messages • Civic participation might strengthen individuals’ health, including among migrant women. • Public health policies should consider civic participation as significant determinant of individuals’ health, as well as a way of tackling health inequalities.

The indirect costs of motherhood and fatherhood: impacts on income, working hours, and perceived health across 32 European countries

Abstract Background Parenthood may affect men’s and women’s personal lives, professional careers, and well-being differently. In the last decades, structural modifications in gender norms, the labor market, and family-supporting policies have occurred, but with cross-country variations, even within European borders. This study aimed to update the estimates on the impact of parenthood on men’s and women’s income, working hours, and perceived health status, and better comprehend their variation across 32 European countries, using a longitudinal approach. Methods Data from the European Survey on Income and Living Conditions (2004-2020) were used to estimate the income variation and the likelihood of transitioning into a non-income status, less than 40 weekly hours, and less than very good health status, from one year before to one year after parenthood. Estimates were done by sex and country. Pooled effects were estimated using random effects meta-analysis. Results We found a short-term 29% income penalty for women and a 12% income premium for men after parenthood. Seventy percent of women who transitioned their status after motherhood shifted to work less than 40 hours per week while no effect was found for men. Regarding perceived health, no shifts were overall observed. A large cross-country heterogeneity was found. Conclusions Motherhood-related income penalties concurred with losses of employment and reductions of weekly working hours, while among men the income premiums were not necessarily coupled with transitions to employed status or 40 weekly working hours. The cross-country heterogeneity is, probably, multifactorial, depending on countries’ policies, norms, labor market, and social structure.

Critical Race Theory in Literature: In The Blood By Suzan-Lori Parks

This study seeks to explore the fundamental principles of Critical Race Theory (CRT) and to use it as an analytical tool in order to discuss Suzan-Lori Parks’s play, In The Blood. Through the key tenets of CRT such as the systematic racism, race as a social construct, intersectionality and power structures, it is framed a comprehensive theoretical background for a literary analysis. Relatedly, the primary focus of this study is to deeply analyze race, gender, power relations and socio-economic conditions with CRT through the playwright’s innovative representation of blackness. CRT clearly shows that racism is constructed through discriminative practices and sustained by law and institutions resulting in justification and accordingly normalization of oppression. In line with CRT’s main concerns, In The Blood embodies societal and ideological barriers and the dehumanization of black female bodies through social judgment, racial and gender discrimination, and motherhood. CRT essentially deals with how Parks reconstructs traditional narratives of guilt, shame, and femininity and claims that Hester is portrayed both as a victim of intersectional oppression and an individual struggling with the harsh conditions of life.

Neonatal multimorbidity and the phenotype of premature aging in preterm infants.

Multimorbidity is the co-occurrence of multiple chronic health problems, associated with aging, frailty, and poor functioning. Children born preterm experience more multimorbid conditions in early life compared to term-born peers. Though neonatal multimorbidity is linked to poor health-related quality of life, functional outcomes, and peer group participation, gaps in our theoretical understanding and conceptualization remain. Drawing from life course epidemiology and the Developmental Origins of Heath and Disease models, we offer a framework that neonatal multimorbidity reflects maturational vulnerability posed by preterm birth. The impact of such vulnerability on health and development may be further amplified by adverse exposures and interventions within the environment of the neonatal intensive care unit. This can be exacerbated by disadvantaged home or community contexts after discharge. Uncovering the physiologic and social antecedents of multiple morbid conditions in the neonatal period and their biological underpinnings will allow for more accurate risk-prediction, counseling, and care planning for preterm infants and their families. According to this framework, the maturational vulnerability to multimorbidity imparted by preterm birth and its negative effects on health and development are not predetermined or static. Elucidating pathways of early biologic and physical aging will lead to improvements in care and outcomes. IMPACT: Multimorbidity is associated with significant frailty and dysfunction among older adults and is indicative of early physiologic aging. Preterm infants commonly experience multimorbidities in the newborn period, an underrecognized threat to long-term health and development. We offer a novel framework incorporating multimorbidity, early cellular aging, and life course health development to innovate risk-prediction, care-planning, and therapeutics.

Multi-Channel Supply Chains Considering Live Streaming Sales and Spillover Effects

Abstract: With the rapid development of e-commerce, an increasing number of companies, such as Huawei, Apple, and Adidas, are no longer confined to offline physical stores for product sales. They leverage third-party e-commerce platforms or establish online stores on their official websites. Modern consumers have access to various purchasing channels, including e-commerce platforms, offline stores, and manufacturer direct sales. In recent years, a new e-commerce model, live streaming sales, has emerged. In live streaming sales, professional salespersons or key opinion leaders (KOLs) showcase product performance, aiming to sell products online. Unlike traditional online channels, live streaming sales alleviate new consumers' uncertainty about product information through real-time interaction or comments from KOLs. Live streaming has been adopted by e-commerce giants worldwide, such as Taobao, JD.com, and Amazon, due to its significant sales revenue potential. Additionally, channels with KOLs may generate negative or positive spillover effects on other channels. These effects are crucial parameters for exploring the impact of seller profits in the multi-channel supply chain under live streaming conditions. Both domestic and international research have focused on live streaming sales, multi-channel sales, and spillover effects, with many studies yielding significant economic and social benefits. However, challenges faced by multi-channel supply chains, including complex channel management, difficulty in information synchronization, brand consistency issues, and increased costs, need to be addressed. To overcome these challenges, recommendations include integrating channel resources, optimizing channel experience, establishing cross-channel data analysis systems, strengthening supply chain coordination, continuous innovation and improvement, and strengthening brand building.

Impacts of traumatic lifetime event on the likelihood of divorce

The possible pathway in which traumatic life events influence the likelihood of marriage dissolution has not been fully explored. In this study a case study of various countries were chosen to maximize the diversity. We examined the effects of various traumatic life events on the likelihood of divorce, while controlling demographic and psychological factors. We employed a mixed probit model on data collected from various countries, such as Turkey, Thailand during the period of 2015–2016. The considered variables in this study were divided into mental health, traumatic life events, and demographic characteristics along with other characteristics. Our results showed that factors such as traumatic life events, e.g., being cheated on, being emotionally or sexually abused, or being disabled, and having divorced parents are positively associated with a higher likelihood of divorce. On the other hand, factors such as better subjective life conditions, older age, and previous divorce are negatively associated with the likelihood of divorce. The results also revealed some interaction effects between different factors. The results emphasize the importance of supporting those who have undergone traumatic life events, by helping them not only with the related traumas, but also preparing them for having a successful marriage. The impacts are expected to be due to shattered assumption theory. This is one of the earliest studies to consider the impact of traumatic life events on the likelihood of divorce.

A measurement scale for material deprivation: A model‐based approach

The prevailing practice of defining classes of material deprivation based on the raw sum of a relatively small number of binary items has obvious advantages in terms of communication and ease of use. Do two people with the same raw score always have the same level of deprivation? This paper examines the methodological foundations of the raw score, comparing classical test theory with model‐based test theory such as Rasch measurement and item response theories. After discussing the merits and limitations of the different approaches, the paper legitimizes the raw score when the assumptions of the Rasch model are met. Based on the analytical procedure of the Rasch model and using the pre‐Covid data from the Survey on Income and Living Conditions, the paper also suggests how to develop a European scale for measuring material deprivation that ensures comparability across European countries.

Neglect, School Violence, and Internalizing Behaviors in Children from Multicultural Families in Korea

Children from multicultural families (i.e., families with at least one parent from a foreign country other than Korea) in South Korea face increased risks of adverse life conditions at home and school. However, few studies have investigated the cumulative effects of family and school adversities, especially internalizing behaviors in this population. This study examined the association between neglect and internalizing behaviors (i.e., depression and social withdrawal) and whether victimization from school violence amplifies the impact of neglect. Data were drawn from the second wave of the Multicultural Adolescents Panel Study (MAPS), which was constructed by the National Youth Policy Institute (NYPI) and included 1500 fifth-graders surveyed in 2012. We first examined the moderating effect of school violence victimization on the association between neglect and depression and subsequently tested the same model to predict social withdrawal. This study showed that neglect significantly increased depression and social withdrawal. Additionally, the impact of neglect on depression and social withdrawal intensified when school violence coexisted. The findings of this study suggest that children from multicultural families exposed to co-occurring adversities require more attention. Assessment of polyvictimization and psychological counseling are necessary for supporting these children who have suffered violence at home and school.

Prevalence and associated factors of suicide-related behaviors in Iranian students: a large sample cross-sectional study

BackgroundAdmission to the university changes life conditions and thereby increases mental pressure. If the students cannot bear the psychological pressure of being a student, that may lead to suicide among the vulnerable persons. Therefore, in this research, we would like to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of suicide-related behaviors in Iranian students.MethodsThis online, cross-sectional survey was performed from March 18 to April 15, 2023, in Iran. The questionnaires were completed by 2181 students. In this study, Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-4), Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MLQ), Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), and Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised (SBQ-R), and Oslo Social Support Scale (OSSS-3) were used. Finally, we identified the factors associated with suicide-related behaviors using univariate and multiple regression.ResultsThe prevalence of suicidal behaviors in students was 57.95%. According to the results, male gender, marriage, having meaning in life, occasional smoking, sleeping after 1 a.m., and having social support were associated with a reduced risk of suicide. In addition, a history of sexual abuse, more anxiety, and higher perceived stress were associated with an increased risk of suicide.ConclusionsThe prevalence of suicide-related behaviors in Iranian students was higher than expected. Urgent interventions should be considered to prevent students from committing suicide. Helping students find meaning in life, as well as eliminating the causes of students’ anxiety and stress, may be effective in this respect. Additionally, teaching students how to control anxiety and stress may be helpful.

Humanist Proselytizing in Distruptive Era Based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s)

Aim/Purpose: The disruptive era is an uncertain condition in social, political, and religious life that creates a new trend regarding monolithic religious understanding. A suitable proselytizing approach based on sustainable development goals is needed to improve the dignity of human life. Background: Social media plays an important role in the spread of a more monolithic religion. This triggered a significant conflict, so efforts are needed to improve religious understanding and experience, one of the fields affected by the disruptive era. Methodology: Various scientific research materials are reviewed to understand how proselytizing strategies are used in the disruptive era. Secondary data analysis was carried out for this qualitative and descriptive study. Contribution: This paper helps understand the right proselytizing strategy to minimize conflicts in the disruptive era by utilizing social media. Findings: The practice of humanist proselytizing through religious moderation and the strengthening of preachers is fundamental to strengthening literal religious understanding in the disruptive era. This study finding helps us understand how to apply proselytizing appropriately in this era of uncertainty. Recommendation for Practitioners: Implementing humanist proselytizing through religious moderation can reduce the monolithic understanding of society due to one of the negative impacts of social media. Recommendation for Researcher: To ensure the relevance of research studies, practitioners and researchers must maintain a collaborative approach with research insights to apply relevant proselytizing strategies in the disruptive era . Impact on Society: Analyze how the proselytizing approach is relevant to society in a disruptive era due to the dark side of social media in the religious. Technology evolves, so society must proactively address this problem with more literacy. In addition, the role of government policymakers, clerics, and ulama is important to reduce the monolithic understanding and cause conflict. Future Research: The study's scope will be better if it can determine the effectiveness of humanist proselytizing through religious moderation with a quantitative approach. In general, this study discusses the best proselytizing strategy in the disruptive era. The significant role of the media can be analyzed to dive deep. Similar studies could be conducted on other religious issues because of technological advancements.

A Review on In Vivo Research Dehydration Models and Application of Rehydration Strategies

Background: Dehydration, a common condition where the amount water lost from the body exceeds intake, disrupts metabolic processes and negatively impacts health and performance. Rehydration, the process of restoring body fluids and electrolytes to normal levels, is crucial for maintaining physiological health. In vivo dehydration models are experimental systems used to study the effects of dehydration on living organisms. However, a comprehensive summary of in vivo models and the application of human rehydration strategies is lacking. Methods: This review provides a comprehensive overview of various in vivo models and rehydration strategies. Results: In vivo models, stimulated by fluid restriction, exercise, thermal exposure, and chemicals, have been used to study dehydration. Importantly, the principles, characteristics, and limitations of the in vivo models are also discussed, along with rehydration administration methods, including oral, intestinal, intravenous, subcutaneous, and intraperitoneal routes. Additionally, rehydration strategies and the application for managing different dehydration conditions both in daily life and clinical settings have been summarized. Conclusions: Overall, this review aims to enhance the understanding of the conditions in which in vivo dehydration models and rehydration strategies are applicable, thereby advancing research into the physiological and pathological mechanisms of dehydration and supporting the development of effective rehydration therapies.

COURSE «MANAGING CONFLICTS IN CRISIS CONDITIONS» IN THE PROFESSIONAL TRAINING SYSTEM OF SPECIALTIES 053 «PSYCHOLOGY»

The article presents an analysis of the theoretical and methodological aspects of teaching the educational discipline «Managing conflicts in crisis conditions». The role of the academic discipline in the system of professional training of students who obtain a master's degree in the specialty 053 «Psychology is determined». The goal of the educational discipline is determined, which consists of acquiring competences in resolving conflicts, developing the ability to predict and control conflict situations in difficult life conditions, and promoting significant progress on the path of professional improvement. The dominant tasks of studying the discipline are highlighted: getting closer to the understanding of the professional necessity of in-depth study of the nature of the emergence and development of various conflicts; identifying the causes of conflicts; using different tactics, and conflict resolution technologies; mastering psychological techniques for getting out of conflict situations. It is noted that the educational material of the discipline «Managing conflicts in crisis conditions» is divided into two content modules, namely: 1. Basics of conflict theory; content module 2. Conflict management in crisis conditions. It is emphasized that the lectures on the discipline «Management of conflicts in crisis conditions» are conducted taking into account the problematic nature, dialogic communication, activation of the thinking and speaking activity of the master's students, namely: lecture-discussions with posing problematic questions, which help to direct the attention of the master's students to the key issues of the topic of the lecture session. A description of the tasks that master's students perform during practical classes is provided. An important place in the process of psychological training of future specialists in crisis psychology is given to the use of multimedia tools. It is proven that mastering the discipline «Management of conflicts in crisis conditions» by master's students is important in the professional formation of a specialist in crisis psychology, as it provides the necessary knowledge and skills to manage conflicts in difficult life situations and reduces the psychological suffering of people experiencing crises. We see the prospects for further study of the problem in the generalization of innovative approaches to improving the professional competence of future specialists in crisis psychology. Keywords: conflict, conflict management, specialist in crisis psychology, crisis, difficult living conditions, competencies, master's degree, independent work

THE IMPACT OF THE WAR-INDUCED, UNSTABLE LIVING CONDITIONS ON PERSONALITY’S MENTAL HEALTH

The purpose of the article. Our work examines the psychological features of the main types of destructive ways of responding to unstable living conditions and their impact on one’s mental health and personal efficiency. The growing number of people facing unstable life conditions and those needing effective psychological strategies to overcome stress and crises are the basis of our study's relevance. The majority of the trauma studies in the field of psychology are devoted to studying the impact of the most common short-term trauma, but the conditions we find ourselves in recently are forcing people to adjust to uncertainty and the traumatizing events that happen to have no visible ending point. The adjustment to long-term trauma means that one comes to realize that there’s no point in postponing life until after the trauma, but rather learning to live one’s life to the fullest and grab every possible opportunity for self-actualization. It is well known that one’s reactions to stressful and unstable situations can be constructive or destructive. The paper aims to identify and analyze the main types of destructive reactions, such as somatization, distress, depression, and anxiety, as well as to study their impact on personal traits that correspond with personal growth and self-actualization. Research methods. We applied the following methods to meet the research tasks: psychological testing, analysis of psychological literature, and statistical methods of data processing, which enable a deeper understanding of the ways the mechanisms of destructive responses to unstable living conditions are formed. Results. The paper examines theoretical approaches to understanding destructive behavioral patterns and their application in psychological assistance. We were able to prove the suggestion that destructive ways of responding, such as anxiety, distress, depression, and somatization complicate the process of self-actualization significantly, reducing the level of personal growth and self-knowledge. We also offer recommendations on the optional techniques for reducing the impact of destructive reactions and supporting positive personality development for psychological assistance and mental health protection. Conclusions. The study results can be effective for psychology practitioners, psychotherapists, and other mental health professionals. They can also become the basis for further scientific research in stress management psychology and psychotherapy. As such, some of the results were presented at the round table “Mental health during the war: challenges and perspectives”. Keywords: distress, unstable living conditions, self-development, self-actualization, influence