Loved Ones Research Articles

The Impact of Social Media and the COVID-19 Pandemic on Adolescent Mental Health: A Literature Review

Recent research indicates that adolescents and college students today are heavily reliant on their smartphones and other devices. While technology has made communication and accessing information easier, it also has its downsides. This reliance on technology can contribute to behavioral addictions and may lead to increased depressive symptoms and anxiety. Adolescents are vulnerable to the influences of social media. Studies show that time spent on social media, the types of sites visited, and a lack of in-person interactions with peers can all contribute to higher levels of depression and anxiety. The COVID-19 pandemic has further intensified these issues. For example, a study by Son et al. (2020) found that during the pandemic, 71% of participants experienced increased stress and anxiety, 91% had concerns about their own and their loved ones' health, 89% struggled with concentration, 86% faced disrupted sleep patterns, 86% had reduced social interactions due to social distancing, and 82% felt anxious about their academic performance. This paper reviews the literature on social media use and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescent mental health. It highlights the urgent need for greater education for both parents and policymakers about managing social media use among adolescents and college students.

Examining the impact of brief couples-based posttraumatic stress disorder treatments on anger and psychological aggression in veterans and their partners.

Anger can adversely impact functioning in veterans. Psychological aggression, which is related to but distinct from anger, is particularly detrimental to veterans' mental health. Research examining anger and psychological aggression following individual therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has demonstrated small effect sizes. Treatments that directly target conflict management and interpersonal functioning, both regarding content and delivery to veterans and their loved ones (e.g., couples-based PTSD treatments), may be more effective in alleviating anger symptoms. This study examined whether larger reductions in anger and psychological aggression would be observed in a couples-based intervention compared to an active comparator at posttreatment and follow-up. Data were derived from a randomized trial comparing brief cognitive-behavioral conjoint therapy for PTSD (bCBCT) and PTSD family education (PFE). Participants were 137 veterans and their intimate partners (bCBCT: n = 92, PFE: n = 45). We observed within-condition significant reductions in angry temperament, d = -0.47, p <.001, and angry reaction, d = -0.26, p =.004, among veterans in bCBCT but not PFE, |d|s = 0.13-0.17, ps =.166-.268. Veterans and partners in both conditions reported reductions in psychological aggression, |d|s = 1.09-1.46, ps <.001. There were no significant differences between the treatment conditions on any outcome, ps =.103-.443, and there were no significant changes in anger between posttreatment and follow-up, |d|s = 0.07-0.24, ps =.052-.582. Couples-based interventions for PTSD, including bCBCT and PFE, can be effective in improving aspects of anger among veterans and their intimate partners.

The Realities of Caring for a Person with a Mental Disorder in Rural and Remote Capricorn District of South Africa: A Qualitative Study.

In rural African communities, family caregivers shoulder the responsibility of caring for loved ones with mental disorders, often without professional support. This qualitative explorative study, conducted in Limpopo Province, South Africa, aimed to explore the realities of caring for a family member with a mental disorder in rural and remote Capricorn District, in order to uncover insights that can inform support systems, the academic community, interventions, and policies. Non-probability purposive sampling was used to ensure the reproducibility and validity of the results by focusing on participants who are actively involved in caregiving, living in the rural and remote of Capricorn District, in order to provide a comprehensive understanding of their experiences, and this resulted in 15 participants (13 females, 2 males). Data saturation determined the sample size, with data collected through in-depth interviews and analyzed using Tesch's open-coding method. The findings revealed that cultural and spiritual beliefs strengthen caregivers, who exhibit resilience and resourcefulness, yet face financial strain, career setbacks, social isolation, and health declines. The study underscores the critical role of healthcare professionals in recognizing and addressing the challenges faced by family caregivers, while also advocating for the academic community to prioritize the development and dissemination of educational programs focused on safe and ethical coping strategies for caregivers and for policymakers to develop comprehensive mental health services that are accessible and culturally sensitive to rural and remote communities. This is essential because the well-being of caregivers directly influences the rehabilitation and community integration outcomes for individuals with mental disorders.

Complication of Grief and PTSD among bereaved siblings in Israel

This study explores the experiences of bereaved siblings in Israel, examining how different causes of death affect their psychological well-being. We recruited three groups of siblings who lost loved ones as a result of military service, terrorism, or civilian circumstances. A total of 159 bereaved siblings completed questionnaires measuring complications of grief (CG), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and world assumptions. Results indicated that siblings who experienced civilian loss exhibited the highest prevalence of CG, while no significant differences in PTSD levels were observed across the groups. Both CG and PTSD were associated with the world assumptions regarding the benevolence of the world and sense of self-worth. The study also examined how demographic variables influence siblings’ well-being and coping with loss. Overall, the findings emphasize the importance of recognizing the unique experiences of bereaved siblings and underscore the necessity of tailored support to address their individualized needs.

Comparison of Caregiver Burden and Quality of Life Between Compound Caregivers and Those with One Adult Child with Autism

ABSTRACT The current study examined differences in caregiver burden and quality of life between compound caregivers (those who are providing care for more than one person) and noncompound caregivers (those caring for a single adult with autism). A national sample of 320 parents (50+) of an adult child (18+) diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder was divided into two groups: compound caregivers (n = 108) and noncompound caregivers (n= 212). Most compound caregivers were providing care for another child, with 30 reporting they were caring for their parents. A negative correlation was found between caregiver burden and quality of life. While caregiver burden was greater for compound caregivers, quality of life was similar for both groups of caregivers. Compound caregivers experienced greater developmental burden, but less financial burden than noncompound caregivers. Specific attention should be directed at developing mechanisms to support family caregivers to offset caregiver burden that increases when caring for additional loved ones.

Politeness Maxim in Real Time with Bill Maher Shows with Elon Musk

The goal of this study is to examine the politeness maxims that appeared in Real Time with Bill Maher talk show program. The research of this study used qualitative descriptive methods. The researchers applied Geofrrey Leech's (1983) theory of politeness maxims to analyze the data. Leech presented six different types of politeness maxims: the Tact Maxim, the Generosity Maxim, the Modesty Maxim, the Approbation Maxim, the Agreement Maxim, and the Sympathy Maxim. The conversation between William Maher and Elon Musk provided the data for this study. The study's findings indicate that the presenters of these shows used twenty eight politeness maxims. The presenter uses a variety of politeness maxims, including: seven tact, four generosity, four approbation, four modesty, four agreement, and five sympathy. The tact maxim and sympathy maxim are the ones Maher uses the most, while the tact maxim and modesty maxim are the ones Musk uses the most. It can be concluded that In the Real Time with Bill Maher talk show program, people who have close relationships minimize harm to others and maximize their benefits, especially to their loved ones.

Abstract C042: iCCaRE qualitative interviews for Black prostate cancer survivors and quality of life

Abstract Intro: Compared to white men, Black men bear the highest burden of prostate cancer, experiencing a higher incidence and mortality rate, and poorer survivorship outcomes. Although prioritized, survivorship and quality of life (QOL) are under-studied in the fight against prostate cancer disparities. To address this issue, clinicians, researchers, and community advocates have formed the Inclusive Cancer Care Research Equity (iCCaRE) Consortium for Black Men. iCCaRE’s goal is to advance the science and practice of survivorship focused on the needs of Black men and their loved ones affected by prostate cancer. Methods: We developed a survivorship care plan (SCP) tailored to the whole person's needs. IRB-approved qualitative methods to preliminarily gain evaluation and guidance on the SCP. The SCP presented content in the following areas: diagnosis and treatment, follow-up care/surveillance, family history, care team, major co-morbidities, symptoms and quality of life, survivorship concerns, and health advisories. Results: 23 Black prostate cancer survivors (PCS) participated and provided feedback on the SCP Mean age was 64 years. PCS diagnosed between 2018-2023 between stages 1-4. The Majority of PCS were provided information for follow-up and side effects. But none had received a comprehensive SCP All agreed that the SCP would contribute to enhancing cancer knowledge, patient activation, and shared decision, and their QOL, if the SCP was obtained. A survivor noted “having inspirational quotes throughout the SCP is important”. An unforeseen consequence to the interviews was the emotional release for the men, justifying the need for the SCP and an expansion of its scope. Domains that the men wanted more contents were social support, sexuality, masculinity, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. All PCS understood the value of having trusted family and friends to bear the burden of the disease despite some not having a solid support system. PCS emphasized the role of family support stating, “my wife and children helped me stay positive”. Another critical lifestyle component that survivors mentioned was their sexuality and how it directly reflects their masculinity. Although PCS adapted to other forms of intimacy like couples’ activities and stronger communication with their partners, majority of men struggle with adapting to their sexual performance. A quote by a survivor encompasses the mindset expressed by many of the men fear “Like a track star in his prime who can’t run anymore”. Erectile Dysfunction can lead to fear and anxiety among survivors, ultimately affecting QOL. Lastly, PCS wanted more options to stay fit and healthy. Further research and resources are needed to address survivor concerns in this area. Discussion: Overall, PCS have acknowledged that the SCP can assist them in these areas of concern, but more research is required. Life after prostate cancer treatment is an ongoing process; while some survivors cope better than others, it is evident a need for more information and guidance is not being provided to all those affected. Citation Format: James Morrison, Kimlin Ashing, Gaole Song, John McCall, Timethia J. Bonner, Che Ngufor, Getachew A. Dagne, Arnold Merriweather, Ewan Cobran, Cassandra N. Moore, Fornati Bedell, Rotimi Oladapo, Floyd B. Willis, JoAnne S. Oliver, Ernie Kaninjing, Roxana Dronca, Folakemi T. Odedina. iCCaRE qualitative interviews for Black prostate cancer survivors and quality of life [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr C042.

Abstract A160: Navigating underserved populations across the cancer continuum: Establishing cancer support and navigation project

Abstract Background. Cancer disproportionately affects underserved communities, including those who face economic, racial, ethnic, and social barriers. These barriers contribute to delays in diagnosis and treatment, resulting in poorer outcomes. Methods. To address this gap, Cedars Sinai Cancer Center Community Outreach and Engagement (COE) has developed the Cancer Support and Navigation Project to improve cancer-related outcomes for underserved cancer patients by providing navigation that eliminates barriers to timely diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The project focuses on reducing barriers for underrepresented sexual, gender, financial, racial, and ethnic minority community members, who are either at risk of being diagnosed with cancer or those have already been diagnosed with cancer, and their loved ones, by offering tailored science-based cancer information, education, navigation, support resources, access to care and cancer support. Our project is targeting geographic areas and groups within the Los Angeles County (Catchment Area) that experience higher incidence of late-stage diagnosis such Latinx, LGBTQ+, Korean, Filipino, Black and immigrant communities. Our COE team has 3 dedicated navigators who are multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, and representative of populations with intersectional identities to provide direct services to community members. Additionally, our COE team has recruited, trained and engaged over 42 community health workers/promotoras/navigators from the community to disseminate cancer health information and navigate people through the cancer continuum. Results. We have disseminated over 1000 flyers and participated in over 100 tabling events throughout Los Angeles County. Additionally, we have developed partnership with various Federally Qualified Health Clinics, including Adventist Health White Memorial Hospital, Central Neighborhood Christian Health Center, Comprehensive Community Health Centers, Saban Community Clinic, Koryo Health Foundation. To date, COE has navigated n=733, who predominantly identify as Hispanic/Latino/a/e/x, Koreans, and LGBTQ+. Most have identified the following areas for navigation: assistance with medial-related care such as cancer screening, diagnosis, or treatment, financial, language barrier, food security and nutrition, insurance coverage, emotional/relationship, social support/isolation, mental health, behavioral, or stress, transportation, housing, and many others. Conclusion. The project's efforts have highlighted the critical importance of providing targeted navigation services to reduce cancer disparities and improve health outcomes for underserved communities. By addressing the unique needs of these populations and eliminating barriers to care, the Cancer Support and Navigation Project at Cedars Sinai Cancer Center COE has made a substantial and positive impact on the lives of many individuals and their families, paving the way for more equitable cancer care and support. Citation Format: Janeth Zelada, Emma Ngula, Min Jung Sung, Ghecemy Lopez, Reener Balingit, Zul Surani. Navigating underserved populations across the cancer continuum: Establishing cancer support and navigation project [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr A160.

Abstract A088: Examining associations between objective and perceived stress and allostatic load in African American prostate cancer survivors

Abstract Background. Racial disparities in prostate cancer survivorship persist despite clinical advancements. Stress has been implicated as a potential driver of these disparities, with both chronic and perceived stress found to be associated with adverse cancer survivorship. Allostatic load (AL), one such marker of chronic stress, has been associated with decreased survivorship and worse quality of life (QoL) in cancer survivors. Perceived stress has also been associated with outcomes in cancer survivorship including increased symptom burden and worse quality of life. Despite this, few studies incorporate direct measures of stress or examine how these measures contribute to AL This study examines the relationship between AL, objective stress (as measured by occurrence of stressful life events), and self-reported perceived stress in a subset of African American prostate cancer survivors (N=59) enrolled in Men Moving Forward, a randomized trial to improve body composition through lifestyle change. Methods. At baseline, participants completed an adapted version of the Crisis in the Family Systems (CRISYS) survey, an instrument designed to measure recent (past 4 months) contemporary life stressors. The survey was tailored for AAPCS via feedback from the community advisory board. 41 items reflective of 11 domains were included. Overall CRISYS scores and scores by domain were calculated. Feelings of perceived stress in the past month were measured via the 10-item perceived stress scale, with higher scores reflecting higher perceived stress. AL scores used 15 criterion reflecting neuroendocrine, cardiovascular, immune, and metabolic systems. Each criterion was assigned a score of 0 or 1: 1 if in the high-risk range based on clinical guidelines. An index score was generated by summing high-risk indicators. Pearson correlations were used to explore the relationship between stress measures. Logistic regression comparing the those with highest quartile AL to lower AL was also performed. Results. The mean AL score was 5.6 (SD ± 2.4) of a maximum score of 15. The mean summative score for CRISYS was 4.8 (SD ± 3.3). The most common domains of stress experienced were safety in the community (67%), relationships (66%), and medical issues of loved ones (44%). The Mean PSS was 11.5 (SD ± 6.0), with 64% of men reporting low stress and 36% moderate stress levels. Significant correlations were found between CRISYS and PSS, however no correlations with AL were detected. No significant findings were identified in the regression analysis. Conclusions. Objective and perceived stress measures were correlated, but no associations were found between the perceived or objective stress measure and AL in this sample.. Given AL is meant to reflect the physiological impact of cumulative and chronic stress burdens, it is possible that the shorter-term context of the objective (past 4 months) and perceived stress (past month) measures were not sufficiently aligned with the longer-term context of AL. Citation Format: Iwalola Awoyinka, Deepak Kilari, Kathryn Bylow, Jennifer Knight, Alexis Visotcky, Anjishnu Banerjee, Patricia Sheean, Paula Papanek, Melinda Stolley. Examining associations between objective and perceived stress and allostatic load in African American prostate cancer survivors [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr A088.

Abstract B037: Reach of digital interventions to address disparities in repeat lung cancer screening in Washington State

Abstract Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer morbidity and mortality in the United States. Annual screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) reduces lung cancer mortality. However, annual adherence to screening is suboptimal. To improve annual adherence to lung cancer screening (LCS), additional patient education beyond shared-decision making is needed to normalize the screening process. Interventions which leverage digital modes of delivery might have broad reach, but only if patients actively engage with messages from clinical providers. Furthermore, there may be disparities in access to digital communication by patient demographics which will need to be addressed to advance health equity through digital technology. The objective of this study was to understand factors associated with engagement with patient portal messaging. This study was nested within a pragmatic clinical trial to test the “Patient Voices Video” relative to usual care to determine if participants opened video intervention communication delivered through the patient portal. The video-based intervention (Patient Voices Video) incorporated patient testimonials to acknowledge LCS receipt, reminds patients they are due in 12 months for next scan, and reassurance to reduce fear of LCS and role of loved ones to support health choices. Study participants were Kaiser Permanente Washington members aged 50-78 years with recent normal LCS scan and were randomized to either Patient Voices Video or usual care. Study analyses were restricted to those assigned to video arm. Participants randomized to the video arm received a web link via a patient portal message 3 weeks after normal scan. We generated descriptive statistics to summarize differences in proportions in pre-specified demographic factors associated with opening the video message in the patient portal among those in the video arm and registered in patient portal (n=614). Overall, 85% of participants opened their patient portal message. Patient factors associated with not opening patient portal message included: current tobacco use (currently smoking 56% in group that did not open portal message vs 42% in group that opened portal message) and race/ethnicity (18% non-White in group that did not open portal message vs 10% in group that opened portal message). A higher proportion (8%) of those in non-metro areas opened portal message compared to 3% not opening message. There were no differences in likelihood of opening the portal message by age, sex, prior LCS experience, or area deprivation. Patient portal messages can be a successful delivery mode for LCS interventions with high utilization, but disparities in reach are still prevalent by race and ethnicity and tobacco status. Citation Format: Anjali Vasavada, Lorella Palazzo, Matthew Triplette, Hongyuan Gao, Melissa Anderson, Casey Luce, Yu-Ru Su, James Ralston, Kristine Rogers, Nadia Bezman, Beverly B Green, Lisa Carter-Bawa, Karen J Wernli. Reach of digital interventions to address disparities in repeat lung cancer screening in Washington State [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B037.

Employing Expressive Art to Explore Mexican Americans’ Grief Experiences of Loss Due to COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic changed people’s lives and resulted in tremendous pain, loss and suffering. The Rio Grande Valley (RGV), in the state of Texas in the U.S., was one of the regions with the highest number of infections and deaths during the pandemic. However, individuals’ bereavement in the RGV is rarely addressed. In this qualitative study, a snowball sample of 47 individuals who had lost their loved ones during the years 2020–2021 were interviewed and invited to engage in an art activity. The findings revealed four themes: peculiar funeral, grieving confusion, loved ones’ memories, and connection to self and the lost one through art. Results indicate that the collective aspect of the funeral was disrupted during the pandemic and created emotional numbness and denial. The intensity of grieving did not decrease with time. The participants mainly relied on their family support and rarely sought professional help. A culturally adapted intervention is needed to address long-term bereavement in this community. Analysis of the art activities indicated that all participants had a feeling of peace and relief afterward, especially male participants who had difficulty expressing their emotions. The participants reported that the artwork positively affected their grievances and that the process was satisfying.

Area deprivation index, a marker of socioeconomic disadvantage, may predict severity of COVID-19 in patients and which families may experience worse symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression post-ICU

BackgroundCOVID-19 disproportionately impacted marginalized populations early in the pandemic. Families of patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) experienced significant psychological effects. Little is known about whether individual and patient psychological outcomes after a loved ones stay in the ICU differs by socioeconomic status, as measured by the area deprivation index (ADI).MethodsFamily members of patients with COVID-19 respiratory failure admitted to the ICU at twelve hospitals in five US states were enrolled in a larger study looking at rates of symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression in the months following their loved one's ICU stay. This secondary data analysis includes eight of the twelve hospitals in four of the five states. Each participant was assigned a number indicating a level of neighborhood disadvantage based on the patient’s zip code. Patient and family level characteristics as well as symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD were assessed among each neighborhood.ResultsPatients from the most disadvantaged neighborhoods had the highest proportion of patients that needed to be intubated (p = 0.005). All the patients in the most disadvantaged neighborhoods were a race other than white (p = 0.17). At 12 months post-hospitalization, there was a statistically significant difference in the proportion of family members who experienced symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression between the ADI groups.ConclusionsADI may be a predictor of COVID-19 disease severity for patients on presentation to the ICU. Patients and family members experience psychological effects after a loved one’s admission to the ICU, and these outcomes vary among individuals of different socioeconomic status’, as measured by the ADI. A larger study of family members’ incidence of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder is needed to understand the extent to which these symptoms are impacted by neighborhood level factors as measured by the ADI.

Collateral damage: the emotional and material costs of political commitment for the followers of Mazzini and Garibaldi

ABSTRACT This article aims to cast light on the backstage of total militancy in the case of the followers of Mazzini and Garibaldi during the Risorgimento and post-Risorgimento. Political engagement is an existential commitment to a cause either in undercover conspiracy networks or in openly volunteering to fight all the way through to parliamentary activity that carries emotional and material costs. These costs can best be approached through the now rich scholarly literature on political emotions and exile, and the still under-investigated collateral effects of nineteenth-century patriotism that can be recovered from the study of the correspondence of families and friends and ego-documents. From Mazzini’s most intimate confessions to the choices made by Giovine Italia’s local leaders or by Garibaldi’s officers on the battlefield or even in the parliamentary arena, the impact of politics on the private horizon reveals the multiple layers of gain and loss, of expectation and disappointment, playing an unavoidable role in the lives of so many Italian men and women. The selected cases illustrate how disruptive political engagement proved to be when it entered the private sphere in the shape of risk, absence or punishment, and yet how fulfilling it was when it offered the ultimate reason for people leaving behind their loved ones and their professional status.

Причины обращения за психологической помощью в стационаре скорой помощи

&lt;p&gt;Psychological assistance to patients in an emergency multidisciplinary hospital is increasingly relevant due to the influence of mental disorders and emotional maladjustment on treatment, the patient&amp;rsquo;s internal perception of their illness, and adherence to treatment. Since hospitalization is inherently a stressful factor that can contribute to the development of anxiety and depressive symptoms, psychological support for patients and often their loved ones is an integral part of the treatment process. However, studies on the emotional state of patients at the time of hospitalization are limited and primarily focus on assessing the level of current stress. Patients admitted to the hospital often experience symptoms of emotional maladjustment long before hospitalization, which can significantly impact their adaptation to the hospital environment and the treatment process as a whole. This article analyzes the reasons for seeking psychological help during hospitalization in an emergency hospital and examines the relationship between these reasons and the level of emotional maladjustment. The analysis of primary issues was conducted by coding each case according to the most prominent problem presented. A total of 379 consultations were analyzed, identifying problems associated with psychological distress. The sample consisted of 122 men and 257 women, with an average age of 50 years. Also, some patients completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), including 30 men and 50 women. The results of the study showed that one of the most common reasons for seeking psychological help was related to situational reactions to stress. However, the majority of patients in this group did not have elevated scores on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. In addition, a significant percentage (37% of all consultations) of patients were referred for psychological consultation due to emotional problems that had been present before hospitalization. Notably, patients in this group were most often among those with clinically significant levels of anxiety and depression. The data obtained may indicate that the main reason for the deterioration of the emotional state at the time of hospitalization is not hospitalization itself, but problems that the patient has encountered outside the hospital walls.&lt;/p&gt;

Our Futures in Mind Uploading: Public Perceptions and Narratives

Advances in neurotechnology have immense potential but also pose significant ethical challenges. While the public is a key stakeholder, this audience is understudied. My research uses mind uploading as an exemplar for hypothetical future neurotechnology and contributes new data to an under researched field. To encourage participants to connect with mind uploading, I designed a novel data collection tool and method - a website that tells the stories of two fictional mind uploaded characters. My results showed that while awareness of mind uploading has remained relatively static over the last few years, favourability towards the concept has significantly increased, reflected in an increasing number of people who would upload if their physical body was dying and search for meaning in this new afterlife. However, while the public could identify several benefits for mind uploading, primarily a continued connection to loved ones, they were clearly concerned how neurotechnology, particularly that which would augment our existing capabilities, might develop. Public concerns reflected those of policymakers and scientists and confirmed the need for regulation to ensure neurotechnology is not discriminatory and does not create an even greater divide between the privileged and disadvantaged.

Supporting Carers: Study Protocol of a Meta-Review of Psychosocial Interventions for Carers of People With Cancer.

While there is a clear need for psychosocial interventions that promote the well-being of carers of patients with cancer, the corresponding evidence base is disparate, complex, and difficult for end users to navigate and interpret. Carers remain undersupported with a lack of dedicated, effective, evidence-based programs. We will conduct a meta-review to synthesize this evidence and determine the state of science in this field. This study aims to address the question, "what psychosocial interventions are available to promote the well-being of carers for people with cancer?" A meta-review will synthesize the relevant reviews of psychosocial interventions that have been developed and evaluated with carers for people with cancer. A total of 4 electronic databases (PsycInfo, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews) will be searched for reviews published between January 2013 and December 2023. A team-based approach will be taken for screening and assessment of the returned records against the eligibility criteria to determine inclusion. Included reviews will be critically appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Systematic Reviews and Research Syntheses. Relevant data on study characteristics, carer and patient populations, intervention details, and psychosocial outcomes will be extracted, synthesized, and the findings will be presented in a narrative format. It is anticipated that the study will be completed by October 2024. Ensuring that carers have access to evidence-based programs that promote their well-being as they care for loved ones is critical. This meta-review will contribute to program development and translation efforts by providing a clear picture of the intervention evidence base of carers of patients with cancer and identifying notable strengths, weaknesses, and gaps across the literature. The findings are anticipated to offer future directions to advance research in the field. PROSPERO (CRD42023403219); https://tinyurl.com/4tnzv49s. DERR1-10.2196/56403.

No Place to Go: The Relationship Between Care Partner Inclusion Practices and the Hospital Environment.

The objective of this was to explore how the physical environment in a hospital contributes to care partner inclusion practices. Despite their vital efforts in caring for people living with dementia (PLWD), care partners of PLWD often report feeling not included in their loved ones' hospitalizations. This phenomenon goes against research, policy initiatives, and hospital design frameworks that underscore the importance of including care partners in hospital care. To ensure that care partners are systematically included in hospital care, health systems must create an environment that prioritizes care partners' presence. This descriptive qualitative design employs a multimethod approach to data collection. Our team conducted direct observations in a large academic hospital and interviewed 23 clinicians/administrators and 15 care partners of PLWD to understand the relationship between hospital environments and care partner inclusion. Observational data were analyzed using a framework analysis, and interview data were analyzed through thematic analysis. Direct observations revealed an underutilization of environmental resources such as family-centered spaces and environmental communication tools. Interview data revealed that adequate space for care partners, the layout of patient rooms, parking accessibility, room personalization, and comfort level of the hospital space all impact care partner inclusion. Our findings highlight opportunities for health systems to create hospital environments that support PLWD and their care partners. In pursuit of systematic care partner inclusion, health systems can make adequate space for care partners, allocate dementia-friendly parking spaces, increase utilization of environmental communication tools, and increase comfort level of the environment.

“I couldn’t say goodbye”: Thematic analysis of interviews with bereaved relatives who lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic

BackgroundDelivering serious news is usually challenging for healthcare professionals and the pandemic of COVID-19 and related restrictions brought additional challenges in this process.AimsTo explore the experience of bereaved relatives with receiving serious news from healthcare professionals during the pandemic COVID-19.DesignA qualitative study using thematic analysis and a codebook approach of data collected in semi-structured interviews with bereaved relatives.Setting/participantsData were collected from July to August 2022 in person/via phone with bereaved relatives who lost their relatives during the pandemic (from March 2020 to March 2022). Participants were recruited using a convenience sample and snowball method through social media and through one university hospital palliative care unit that invited bereaved relatives of deceased patients treated at the unit to participate in this study.ResultsA total of 22 participants, consisting of 4 men and 18 women, were interviewed for this study. Most of the participants were sons or daughters of individuals who had died (5 grandchildren, 14 sons/daughters, 2 spouses, 1 great-niece). Six themes were identified: Burden caused by visit ban, Fear of COVID-19, Inappropriate behaviour and communication of healthcare professionals, High need for emotional support, Need for detailed and honest communication, Tendency to make excuses for mistakes and lapses by healthcare professionals.ConclusionsDelivering serious news during a pandemic was negatively influenced by a lack of contact with patients and a lack of support and empathetic communication with staff. Overcoming these circumstances can be achieved by frequent communication using various communication tools (such as videoconferences or phone calls), and maintaining empathy and honesty in the communication process.

"Everyone blames you": Stigma and caregiver burden among parents of children with substance use disorder.

Recent increases in drug overdose deaths have created a significant public health crisis in the United States. Individuals diagnosed with substance use disorder (SUD) often rely on their social support network as they engage in treatment and recovery. While support from parents, in particular, can be vital in recovery, stress associated with supporting loved ones with SUD can have detrimental effects on health and well-being. Stigma toward parents and loved ones further complicates the support they can offer. The present study explores caregiver burden and stigma experienced by parents of children with SUD. The impact of these experiences on their ability to access support and resources, both for themselves and their children, is of particular interest. In-depth one-on-one interviews were conducted with 25 parents (92% mothers) of children (ages 17-32 years old) with SUD. Qualitative thematic analysis resulted in three themes: (1) caregiving and associated burden, (2) parent experiences with SUD stigma, and (3) impact of stigma on caregiver support. Experiences of burden and stigma were prevalent; parents reported stigma directed at them due to their child's diagnosis (associative stigma) as well as psychological distress they experienced witnessing their children experience stigma (vicarious stigma). Fear of judgment and shame led parents to avoid disclosing their child's SUD to others and impeded help-seeking behavior. When parents did seek formal help, resources were limited and insufficient. The findings underscore the need for increased understanding and acceptance from the community, emphasizing the potential role of education in reshaping perceptions. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Resilience among Rural South Indian Families during Covid-19 Pandemic: A Pilot Study

Pandemics have been in the history of mankind wiping out large number of people. COVID-19 pandemic in the 21st century has also taken a heavy toll on lives and has impacted every aspect of life. There have been several short-term and long-term implications on the families. Many families are still experiencing an ongoing negative impacts viz., loss of job, loss and threatened loss of loved ones, financial insecurity etc. Families were unable to meet the demands of children and elderly at home while being grateful for the quality time spent with family members. Material and Method: A comparative cross-sectional study was carried out to measure the level of resilience among families faced with and without COVID-19 infection during the pandemic in selected rural areas of Tamil Nadu, South India. FRS-16 was used to measure the resilience. Results: The study findings regarding the overall resilience revealed that 53% of the families had moderate resilience and 47% had high resilience. However, there was no statistical difference observed in the different domains of resilience such as Family Communication and Connectedness, Positive Framing and External Resources/Support between the families faced with and without COVID-19 infection. Discussion: The findings of this study corresponded to the findings of a study done in Indonesia with 68.9% of the families having moderate resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. It has also been observed that a positive framing, family communication and connectedness have a positive influence on the family resilience. Conclusion: Family Resilience is a complex process; hence it is of high importance that adaptive strategies are enhanced in families to strengthen them in rising from adversities.