Long-term Psychological Impact Research Articles

Experiences of known bystanders during out-of-hospital cardiac arrest: a scoping review and narrative synthesis

Around 90% of cardiac arrests occur either at home or in the workplace. The provision of bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation is associated with a threefold increase in survival. The emotional and psychological effects of these events on bystanders are often neglected, but can be particularly pronounced when the person experiencing the arrest is known to the bystander. This study aimed to synthesise the available literature exploring bystander experience following an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, with a particular focus on bystanders who were known to the person experiencing the arrest. A scoping review was undertaken in line with Joanna Briggs Institute guidance. Three online databases – the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Scopus and Medline – were searched on 5 May 2024, alongside a grey literature review. A total of 12 articles were included, presented in three categories: ‘response dynamics’, encompassing the immediate reactions and decision-making processes; ‘emotional fallout’, including the long-term psychological and emotional impact; and ‘moving on’, examining the requirements for both practical and emotional support in the aftermath of the event. The review indicated that there is limited literature exploring the needs of families following observation or involvement in the resuscitation of a known individual. While the emotional and psychological impact is clearly substantial, there is currently no structured support system available following the event. The need for ongoing support and care for families is highlighted.

Nurse Managers' Experiences in Managing Inpatient Wards During a Crisis: Lessons from the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has provided valuable lessons for all parties, including nursing services in hospitals. To date, literature has been lacking on the role of nurse managers in managing inpatient wards for COVID-19 patients, especially in Indonesia. This study aims to explore the experiences of, and the challenges encountered by nurse managers in managing inpatient wards during the crisis. This is a qualitative study with a phenomenology design. The study used a purposive sampling technique involving four nurse managers from several hospitals in South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia. Data were obtained through semi-structured interviews and were analyzed using thematic analysis. This study yielded three themes and nine sub-themes. Nurse managers experienced panic and fear but carried out inpatient management immediately. There was also a solid commitment to protect the fellow nurses from infection. Valuable lessons include the availability of human resources, strong commitment from all lines, management support, and teamwork. Meanwhile, nurse managers encountered challenges such as the lack of personal protective equipment, frequently changing service procedures and the psychological needs of nurses. Nurse managers obtained numerous lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic related to their capabilities in managing inpatient wards. The findings suggest the adaptability of nurse managers to similar challenging crisis encounters in the future by analysing the effects of frequent workflow changes on care quality and staff adaptation, examining the long-term psychological impact of pandemic work on nurses developing strategies to enhance organizational support for nurses including coping mechanisms and well-being related trainings and services, and to build dynamics of effective teamwork during crisis.

Tracts in the limbic system show microstructural alterations post COVID-19 recovery.

Delirium, memory loss, attention deficit and fatigue are frequently reported by COVID survivors, yet the neurological pathways underlying these symptoms are not well understood. To study the possible mechanisms for these long-term sequelae after COVID-19 recovery, we investigated the microstructural properties of white matter in Indian cohorts of COVID-recovered patients and healthy controls. For the cross-sectional study presented here, we recruited 44 COVID-recovered patients and 29 healthy controls in New Delhi, India. Using deterministic whole-brain tractography on the acquired diffusion MRI scans, we traced 20 white matter tracts and compared fractional anisotropy, axial, mean and radial diffusivity between the cohorts. Our results revealed statistically significant differences (PFWE < 0.01) in the uncinate fasciculus, cingulum cingulate, cingulum hippocampus and arcuate fasciculus in COVID survivors, suggesting the presence of microstructural abnormalities. Additionally, in a subsequent subgroup analysis based on infection severity (healthy control, non-hospitalized patients and hospitalized patients), we observed a correlation between tract diffusion measures and COVID-19 infection severity. Although there were significant differences between healthy controls and infected groups, we found no significant differences between hospitalized and non-hospitalized COVID patients. Notably, the identified tracts are part of the limbic system and orbitofrontal cortex, indicating microstructural differences in neural circuits associated with memory and emotion. The observed white matter alterations in the limbic system resonate strongly with the functional deficits reported in Long COVID. Overall, our study provides additional evidence that damage to the limbic system could be a neuroimaging signature of Long COVID. The findings identify targets for follow-up studies investigating the long-term physiological and psychological impact of COVID-19.

Anxiety, depression, somatization and psychological distress before and 2–6 years after a late termination of pregnancy due to fetal anomalies

BackgroundFor many women, a late termination of pregnancy (TOP) can be an enormous psychological burden. Few studies have investigated the long-term psychological impact of late TOP.MethodsN = 90 women answered a questionnaire containing questions about anxiety, depression and somatization (Brief-Symptom Inventory, BSI-18) shortly before (T1) and 2–6 years after (T4) their late termination of pregnancy.ResultsPrior to the late TOP, 57.8% of participants showed above-average levels of overall psychological distress (66.7% anxiety, 51.1% depression, 37.8% somatization). This number decreased significantly over time for all scales of the BSI-18. 2–6 years later, only 10.0% of women still reported above-average levels (17.8% anxiety, 11.1% depression, 10.0% somatization).ConclusionsOur results support those of previous research showing that late TOP has a substantial psychological impact on those experiencing it in the short-term. In the long-term, most women return to normal levels of psychological distress, although some still show elevated levels. Limitations of the study include monocentric data collection, drop-out between T1 and T4, and the relatively wide range of two to six years after TOP. Further research should be conducted in order to identify factors that impact the psychological processing of the experience.

Long-term psychological impact of the pandemic COVID-19: Identification of high-risk groups and assessment of precautionary measures five months after the first wave of restrictions was lifted.

Critical facets of our lives have been disrupted by the COVID-19 outbreak for almost three years. During this time, there has been a lot of clinical and research interest in issues related to mental health. However, few have examined the pandemic's long-term psychological effects. The aims of the present study were to assess the long-term psychological impact of the pandemic COVID -19, five months after the first wave restriction measures were lifted, to identify high-risk groups and to address the use of precautionary measures (PM). Information about sociodemographic characteristics, mental health, coping mechanisms, and compliance with precautionary measures (PM) were all gathered in Cyprus through an anonymous online survey. The poll was completed by 1128 people (73% of whom were female). For the purposes of the present study, descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling were used. 32.3% of participants experienced moderate-to-severe anxiety symptoms, where 16.4% and 23% reported moderate-to-severe depression and post-traumatic stress symptoms respectively. Lower levels of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress symptoms as well as greater compliance to PM were linked to higher levels of resilience. Additionally, subgroups of participants, at a higher risk for negative psychological effects were identified, such as women and young adults. Our findings demonstrate the long-lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and provide guidance on how to deal with similar situations. It also raises questions about the concurrent effects on people with the long COVID syndrome.

1963 `Three sides to every story'- Living the patient, carer and staff experience of COVID

Abstract Introduction When COVID-19 first entered our world in March 2020 and the country went into lock down, the NHS braced itself for one of its biggest challenges of this century. Older, frail patients were in the highest risk group, with those in care homes not only at higher risk of death, but higher risk of contracting COVID-19, often suffering more psychological disturbances (Hewitt et al., 2020; Numbers &amp; Brodaty, 2021). This study was conceived by two nurse researchers working throughout the pandemic on a COVID ward for predominantly older people, aiming to capture the experiences of patients, families/carers and staff members. Methods Phenomenology was the most appropriate methodology to provide an in-depth lived experience perspective. Full ethical approval was obtained and participants were sampled purposively. In-depth unstructured interviews were conducted and transcribed in full before being analysed hermeneutically using the four steps outlined by Fleming et al. (2003). Results 30 participants were recruited (10 patients, 10 relatives, including several bereaved and 10 staff members). Whilst experience varied between and within groups, core themes emerged: 1. Communication difficulties were poignantly expressed, with staff acting as intermediaries between patients and their family members who were kept apart through visiting restrictions, whilst managing clinical care and their own emotional responses. 2. Challenges of care were experienced by all groups, with anxiety around contagion conflicting with feelings of guilt and long-term psychological impact described by staff. 3. Collective experiences of grief and loss were described as participants grappled with coming to terms with encountering death and dying on an unprecedented scale and under such extraordinary conditions. Conclusion This study adds to the growing evidence base around experience of the COVID pandemic, adding insight into the triangulated experience of those affected and highlighting the profound effect on patients, relatives and staff.

The Role of Sports Psychology in Managing Concussion Recovery and Return to Play

Objective: This study explores the role of sports psychology in managing concussion recovery and facilitating athletes’ readiness to return to play. Methods and Materials: A qualitative research design was utilized, involving semi-structured online interviews with athletes who had experienced concussions, sports psychologists, and medical professionals. 36 Participants were recruited through purposeful sampling, and data collection continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed using NVivo software through an inductive thematic approach, allowing for the emergence of key themes. Reflexivity and researcher triangulation were employed to ensure the rigor and reliability of the findings. Findings: Four main themes emerged: psychological interventions, mental barriers and facilitators in return to play, the role of support systems, and the long-term psychological impact of concussions. Psychological interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral techniques and mindfulness practices, were effective in reducing anxiety and enhancing resilience. Fear of re-injury and performance anxiety were significant barriers, while confidence restoration and motivation levels facilitated recovery. Social support from family, teammates, and coaches played a crucial role in alleviating psychological distress. The long-term impact included identity crises, chronic symptoms, and ongoing mental health concerns, emphasizing the need for holistic support. Conclusion: The findings underscore the importance of integrating psychological interventions in concussion recovery. Addressing fear, anxiety, and identity loss, while enhancing confidence and social support, is crucial for a successful return to play. This study highlights the necessity for comprehensive recovery protocols that consider both physical and psychological readiness. Practitioners should prioritize individualized psychological assessments and foster supportive environments to improve recovery outcomes.

The Impact of the Initial Period of COVID-19 Pandemic Restrictions on Psychiatric Emergency Admissions: A Comparative Analysis of Demographics and Diagnoses

Objective: This study investigates impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on psychiatric emergency department admissions in province of Trabzon. Materials and Methods: The analysis involved examining changes in patient demographics, psychiatric diagnoses, and overall admission numbers during the pandemic compared to the previous year. The study focuses on patients aged over 16, utilizing records from three major healthcare centers in Trabzon province. Data including psychiatric diagnoses from the periods of March 11 to June 1 in both 2019 and 2020 are examined. Psychiatric diagnoses are categorized according to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) classification system. Results: The findings indicate a substantial (32.5%) decrease in psychiatric emergency department admissions during the pandemic. This reduction is observed across all three hospitals, with the most significant decline occurring in the hospital designated for pandemic cases. Both men and women showed decreased presentations, and there is a statistically significant increase in the median age of patients. While overall psychiatric diagnoses decreased, the proportions of specific diagnoses including anxiety disorder, schizophrenia, depressive disorder, and substance dependence, shoved increase during the study period. Conclusion: Contrary to expectations, the study reveals a noteworthy decline in psychiatric emergency department admissions amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Similar trends are reported internationally. The discussion highlights potential factors contributing to this decrease, such as fear of COVID-19 transmission in hospitals, the perception that hospitals prioritize COVID-19 cases, and the availability of alternative mental health services. Concerns are raised regarding the long-term psychological impact of the pandemic, emphasizing the need for ongoing research and identification of high-risk groups not accessing emergency clinics during this period. The study acknowledges limitations, including reliance on hospital records and the potential for misdiagnoses in emergency settings, urging cautious interpretation of the results.

Violence behind the Closed Door: Depression, Suicidal Ideation and Future Concerns Among its Spectators

Objective: To determine the depression, suicidal ideation, and future concerns among domestic violence spectators. Study Design: Exploratory study design. Place and Duration of Study: Shelter Homes and Community Centres, in Rawalpindi/Islamabad Pakistan, from Aug to Nov2022. Methodology: In-depth interviews with 30 participants aged 12 to 17 years were conducted to assess the future apprehensions and worries of domestic violence spectators. Interviews were recorded and transcribed for thematic analysis. Transcribed data were critically reviewed, and themes were identified. Inter-rater reliability was calculated with the help of Cohen Kappa and was found to be in substantial agreement. Results: The study findings identified major themes related to psychological issues and future apprehensions among participants who witnessed domestic violence. Maladaptive relationships with parents and intensification of social problems such as isolation, self-harm, social withdrawal, suicidal ideation, difficulty in making friends, and apprehensions about the future relationship with a partner were also perceived as serious future concerns among domestic violence spectators. Conclusion: Domestic violence takes a toll on the mental and physical well-being of not only its victims but also its spectators. Early detection and prevention of violent exposure are essential to mitigate its long-term psychological impact.

Trauma, risk, and resilience: A qualitative study of mental health in post-conflict Liberia.

The Liberian civil wars led to widespread destruction and devastation for its individuals, communities, and economy. However, individuals' subjective trauma experiences and long-term psychological impact remain relatively understudied. This study aims to explore context-specific traumatic events and examine how risk and protective factors combine with traumas to influence trajectories of suffering and recovery over time. We conducted 43 semi-structured interviews with Liberian adults who were present during the Liberian civil wars, and we used line-by-line open coding, thematic analysis, and axial coding to analyze and contextualize the data. Eight key trauma themes emerged: Abuse (emotional, physical, and sexual), Captivity, Combat, Killings, Physical Illness, Resource Loss, Family Separation, and War Environment. The risk and protective factors that were reported as salient were: Age, Biological Sex, Socioeconomic Status, and Community Support. Further, key patterns emerged across interviews that indicated greater risk for long-term suffering: 1) exposure to multiple traumatic events, 2) certain types of traumatic events (like killing of a close family member), and 3) the combination of specific traumatic events and risk and protective factors (like older women witnessing the killing of their children). This study provides culturally relevant information on trauma, suffering, and resilience in post-conflict Liberia, with the aim of guiding the development of screening tools and targeted psychological interventions that improve well-being over time.

Determinants of neural tube defects among newborns in public referral hospitals in Eastern Ethiopia

BackgroundNeural tube defects (NTDs) are serious brain and spine birth defects. Although NTDs are primarily pregnancy complications, such as abortion and stillbirth, they also contribute to under-five morbidity and mortality, as well as long-term disability and psychological impact. Despite these negative outcomes, the determinants of NTDs are not widely studied in Ethiopia, particularly in the country’s east. As a result, we sought to identify the risk factors for NTDs in neonates born in public referral hospitals in eastern Ethiopia.MethodsA facility-based unmatched case-control study was carried out at Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized Hospital and Sheik Hassen Yabare Jigjiga University Referral Hospital in Eastern Ethiopia. We included 59 cases identified in the selected facilities between September 10, 2021, and February 5, 2022, and 118 control neonates, with a case-to-control ratio of 1:2. Data were gathered through the use of interviewer-administered questionnaires and medical record review. To identify determinant factors of NTDs, a multivariable logistic regression model was used, which included all predictor variables from the bivariable analysis. The results were reported using an Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsIn total, 59 cases of NTDs were identified out of 2915 live birth total births registered in the two hospitals, making the incidence of NTDs 202.4/10,000 births. In the final model analysis, determinant factors such as gender of newborn [AOR = 2.97; 95%CI(1.27, 6.92)], having no history of antenatal care[AOR = 4.45;95%CI(1.30,15.20)], having a poor food consumption score (AOR = 3.38;95% CI;1.06,10.72), having history of monotonous diet consumption (AOR = 4.80; 95%CI: 1.09, 9.08; P = 0.038), and coffee consumption of three or more cups per day during pregnancy (AOR = 3.84:95% CI: 1.23, 11.97) were statistically associated with NTDs.ConclusionModifiable and non-modifiable determinants were identified as major contributors of neural tube defect in this study. Early screening, dietary intervention counseling to increase consumption of a healthy diet, coffee consumption reduction, and pre-pregnancy supplementation programs should be developed to reduce NTDs in Ethiopia.

Dialogue with Gaea Logan: “The whole world needs to hear these stories”

ABSTRACT In this reflective, compassionate interview, Gaea Logan discusses her work in supporting Ukrainian therapists amidst unthinkably traumatic circumstances, our need to stay aware of the long-term psychological impact of Putin’s invasion, and the importance of our continued support of our Ukrainian colleagues now, no matter how small the gesture. Logan contextualizes her view of the current onslaught within a career of recognizing and mitigating traumatic suffering around the world, motivated in part by her own family’s history of surviving Nazi violence. She also addresses today’s need for (and her efforts to co-create) a global, multi-disciplinary psychoanalytic community.

(045) Standard of Care and Patient Perspectives Regarding Early Genital Surgery for Infants with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

Abstract Introduction Opposition to normalizing genital surgeries for children with disorders of sex development (DSD) continues to grow. However, some have argued that congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) should not be lumped in with other DSD conditions and therefore normalizing surgery for CAH infants with XX chromosomes and ambiguous genitalia is justifiable. Furthermore, patient and caregiver perspectives/satisfaction regarding early genital surgery varies greatly. The heterogeneity of views regarding early genital surgery in CAH infants may make navigating the treatment of CAH patients difficult and unique from the treatment of other DSD. Objective This project seeks to summarize the viewpoints regarding CAH and early genital surgery available in the biomedical literature. Methods We conducted a systematic literature review using the database Ovid MEDLINE using the terms “congenital adrenal hyperplasia,” “urogenital surgical procedures,” “sex reassignment surgery,” “genitalia surgery,” and “reconstructive surgical procedures.” We limited the search to English articles published from 2000 to October 2022. We limited the age range to children from birth to 23 months. We included articles with results that offered recommendations regarding decision making in early genital surgery, patient/parent perspectives or satisfaction regarding early surgery, and clinicians’ perspectives. We excluded articles that discussed the science of disease or surgical techniques and outcomes but did not address the complex perspectives regarding CAH surgery. Results Of the 118 articles initially retrieved, we included 53 articles. A variety of views were expressed regarding early genital surgery. Of the three articles that explicitly evaluated patient perspectives using a survey, most people with CAH seemed to approve of early genital surgery. In contrast, narrative pieces have highlighted the psychological trauma of receiving early genital surgery without their consent. Interestingly, many of the excluded articles discussed surgical techniques and their aesthetic outcomes for people with CAH, but failed to investigate the psychological impact that surgeries might have on the patient. Seven articles specifically evaluated the perspectives of the parent/caregiver in the decision making or possible regret process. One article addressed the effects of early surgery on fertility. Finally, genital surgeries and expectations also drastically vary from country to country. In more conservative countries such as Egypt, Sudan, and Nigeria, normalizing surgery is acceptable as a way to clearly define the child’s sex. In more progressive countries, such as Germany and Malta, these surgeries are not accepted or expected. Conclusions The biomedical literature is unclear about the global standard of care regarding CAH early genital surgery. Although there is a plethora of research regarding surgical technique, aesthetic outcomes, and even parental and caregiver decision making, there is less research regarding the long-term psychological impact of these surgeries. More research needs to amplify the voices of patients with CAH to inform the evolution of the standard of care. Disclosure No

Exploring the Long-Term Psychological Impact of Childhood Abuse on Intimate Partner Violence Victims in Malaysia

Exploring the Long-Term Psychological Impact of Childhood Abuse on Intimate Partner Violence Victims in Malaysia

Burden of unintentional pediatric firearm injury: An examination of the Nationwide Readmission Database.

Significant increases in firearm-related mortality in the US pediatric population drive an urgent need to study these injuries to drive prevention policies. The purpose of this study was (1) to characterize those with and without readmissions, (2) to identify risk factors for 90-day unplanned readmission, and (3) to examine reasons for hospital readmission. The 2016-2019 Nationwide Readmission Database of the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project was used to identify hospital admissions with unintentional firearm injury in patients younger than 18 years. Ninety-day unplanned readmission characteristics were assessed and detailed. Multivariable regression analysis was used to assess factors associated with unplanned 90-day readmission. Over 4 years, 1,264 unintentional firearm injury admissions resulted in 113 subsequent readmissions (8.9%). There were no significant differences in age or payor, but more women (14.7% vs. 23%) and older children (13-17 years [80.5%]) had readmissions. The mortality rate during primary hospitalization was 5.1%. Survivors of initial firearm injury were more frequently readmitted if they had a mental health diagnosis (22.1% vs. 13.8%; p = 0.017). Readmission diagnosis included complications (15%), mental health or drug/alcohol (9.7%), trauma (33.6%), a combination of the prior three (28.3%), and chronic disease (13.3%). More than a third (38.9%) of the trauma readmissions were for new traumatic injury. Female children, those with longer lengths of stay, and those with more severe injuries were more likely to have unplanned 90-day readmissions. Mental health and drug/alcohol abuse diagnoses were not an independent predictor for readmission. This study provides insight into the characteristics of and risk factors for unplanned readmission in the pediatric unintentional firearm injury population. In addition to using prevention strategies, the utilization of trauma-informed care must be integrated into all aspects of care for this population to help minimize the long-term psychological impact of surviving firearm injury. Prognostic and Epidemiological; Level IV.

Initial Psychological Reactions to COVID-19 of Middle Adolescents in Portugal

In its early stage, the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent public health measures brought several challenges to people in general, with adolescents being one of the most affected groups. To assess the psychological reactions of Portuguese adolescents in that early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, we conducted an online survey that was filled by a sample of 340 (67.6% female and 32.4% male) middle adolescents (aged 16 and 17 years). Using the Impact Event Scale-Revised and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale, we found that most participants reported a normal score for depression, anxiety, and stress. However, 47.1% reported some level of pandemic-related traumatic distress, and 25.6% reported high severity values. The girls' levels of depression, anxiety, stress, and traumatic distress were significantly higher than those of the boys. Regression models showed that gender, number of symptoms experienced in the past days, self-reported health status, and concern with family were significant predictors of these mental health indicators. Our findings underscore the need for future research on the long-term traumatic psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in adolescents, and on the gender differences in this group. This will allow the development of strategies to identify and address at-risk adolescents, since the promotion of mental health and the prevention of pathology are imperative for the health of current and future generations.

IMPACT OF COVID -19 IN MENTAL HEALTH OF COMMUNITY PEOPLE

Background: COVID-19 has done a great impact on the life of people, till now the third wave has been reported but the magnitude of mental health impact is the same as before. This study aimed to identify depression, anxiety, and stress among community people. During COVID -19 pandemic. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study carried out using convenient sampling during CO- VID-19 Pandemic. Data was collected by using a structured standard DASS 21 scale. The SPSS version 22 was used to analyze data. Results: There were a total of 411 people who participated, among them 33.7 %, 31.7 %, and 31.7 % had mild to extremely severe levels of depression, anxiety, and stress respectively were prevalent. There was a statistically significant association between income during the lockdown and the relatives of health workers working during COVID-19 in the DASS Scale at a 95% confidence level (p value&lt; 0.05). Conclusions: The depression, anxiety, and stress found in the community people during the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic suggest that the impact still persists. The psychological awareness program has to be conducted more frequently in community settings, as this manmade disaster has a greater and long-term psychological impact.

Prospective examination of psychological trauma among adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This longitudinal study investigated the predictors of and changes in psychological trauma during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants included 236 adolescents (130 males; Mage = 16.74 years in spring 2020; 49.6% diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder; 16.1% diagnosed with an anxiety or depressive disorder) in the United States who completed online questionnaires at four timepoints (spring 2020, summer 2020, fall 2020, spring 2021). Repeated measures ANOVA showed that psychological trauma was highest during stay-at-home orders in spring 2020, and decreased for a majority of adolescents by the summer of 2020. However, ~20% of adolescents exhibited moderate-to-clinical levels of psychological trauma at each timepoint. Four groups were identified based on the presence of psychological trauma symptoms: (a) resilient group (normal range across all timepoints; 60.6%); (b) moderate fluctuating group (moderate range at 1 or more timepoints; 18.2%); (c) severe fluctuating group (clinical range at 1 or more timepoints; 14.0%); and (d) chronic psychological trauma group (moderate or clinical range across all timepoints; 7.2%). Females, adolescents with preexisting internalizing disorders, and participants whose families were most impacted by the pandemic were more susceptible to experiencing psychological trauma symptoms. Findings highlight at-risk populations and suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in psychological trauma symptoms for approximately 20% of adolescents at some point during the first year of the pandemic. There is critical need to provide mental health services to adolescents, such as through school-based services, to reduce the negative long-term psychological impact of the pandemic. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).

Long-term mental health impact of COVID-19 on primary care health workers in northern Spain: Results from a two-phase longitudinal study.

COVID-19 pandemic has affected the mental health of the general populations, and in particular of health professionals. Primary care personnel are at greater risk due to being highly exposed to the disease and working regularly in direct contact with patients suffering COVID-19. However, there is not sufficient evidence on the long-term psychological impact these professionals may suffer. We aimed to explore the long-term psychological impact of COVID-19 on primary care professionals. We applied a two-phase design; a self-reported psychopathology screening (PHQ-9, GAD-7, ISI and IES-R) in phase-1, and a specialized psychiatric evaluation (MINI, HDRS and STAI) in phase-2 to confirm phase-1 results. Evaluations were carried at the beginning of the pandemic (May-June 2020) (n=410) and one year later (n=339). Chi-square, ANOVA and logistic regression tests were used for statistical analyses. Primary care professionals presented high rates of depression, anxiety and psychological distress, measured by PHQ-9, GAD-7 and IES-R respectively during the pandemic. Depressive symptoms´ severity (PHQ-9: 7.5 vs 8.4, p=0.013) increased after one year of COVID-19 pandemic. After one year nearly 40% of subjects presented depression. Being women, having suffered COVID-19 or a relative with COVID-19, and being a front-line professional were risk factors for presenting depression and anxiety. Primary Care professionals in Cantabria present a poor mental health during COVID-19 pandemic, which has even worsened at long-term, presenting a greater psychopathology severity one year after. Thus, it is critical implementing prevention and early-treatment programs to help these essential professionals to cope with the pandemic.

Psychosocial Perceptions as Significant Impact Modifiers - A Mixed Method Research Among Hospitalized Covid-19 Patients in A Tertiary Care Hospital in Coimbatore District, Tamil Nadu

Context: Covid 19 pandemic which evolved in successive waves had profound pyschosocial impact on affected individuals. Perceptions had impact on both individual and environmental level with potential behavioural consequences. The aim of the research is to study the psychosocial perception and psychological impact of COVID- 19 among hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Methodology: The study was a mixed method research (Quan-Qual sequential design) conducted in the Covid wards of a tertiary care hospital in Coimbatore district. The psychological impact was assessed using the General Health Questionnaire, Perceived Stress Scale. The results of quantitative analyses and qualitative analyses were expressed as proportions and done using thematic analysis using grounded theory respectively. Results: About 55% of the hospitalized Covid-19 patients had psychological impact. On multivariate analysis, the factors which emerged as independent risk factors for presence of psychological morbidities due to COVID were presence of high stress level, sleep disturbances and their perception of COVID as high threat. Conclusions: Focussed Counselling with specific reference to attend to spiritual health component in addition, would go a long way in diminishing immediate and long-term psychological impact due to covid-19 illness.