Mean Anxiety Scores Research Articles

An Observational Study of the Progression of Patients’ Mental Health Symptoms Six Weeks Following Discharge From the Hospital

IntroductionTransitioning from mental health inpatient care to community care is often a vulnerable time in the treatment process where additional risks and anxiety may arise.ObjectivesThe objective of this paper was to evaluate the progression of mental health symptoms in patients six weeks after their discharge from the hospital as the first phase of an ongoing innovative supportive program. In this study, factors that may contribute to the presence or absence of anxiety and depression symptoms, and the quality of life following a return to the community were examined. The results of this study provide evidence and baseline data for future phases of the project.MethodsAn observational design was used in this study. We collected sociodemographic and clinical data using REDCap at discharge and six weeks later. Anxiety, depression, and well-being symptoms were assessed using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) questionnaire, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and the World Health Organization-Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5) respectively. Descriptive, Chi-square, independent T-test, and multivariate regression analyses were conducted.ResultsThe survey was completed by 88 participants out of 144 (61.1% response rate). A statistically non-significant reduction in anxiety and depression symptoms was found six weeks after returning to the community based on the Chi-squared/Fisher exact test and independent t-test. As well, the mean anxiety and depression scores showed a non-significant marginal reduction after discharge compared to baseline. In the period following discharge, a non-significant increase in participants experiencing low well-being symptoms was observed, as well as a decline in the mean well-being scores. Based on logistic regression models, only baseline symptoms were significant predictors of symptoms six weeks after inpatient discharge.Image:Image 2:Image 3:ConclusionsIn the short term following hospital discharge, no significant changes were observed in mental health conditions. A collaboration between researchers and policymakers is essential for the implementation and maintenance of effective interventions to support and maintain the mental health of patients following discharge.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Assessing the relationships between emotion regulation, depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms in a Tunisian University Setting

IntroductionDifficulties in emotion regulation are known to be associated with various mental health problems, particularly depression, and anxiety.ObjectivesThis study aimed to explore the relationship between emotion regulation, depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms in a Tunisian university setting.MethodsA cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study was conducted among Tunisian students from August to September 2023. Data were collected through an anonymous online questionnaire, assessing sociodemographic characteristics, the Arabic version of the difficulties in emotion regulation scale short form (DRES-SF), and the depression, anxiety, and stress scale (DASS-21).Results A sample of 307 university students were enrolled. The sex ratio (M/F) was 0.28. In the assessment of emotional regulation difficulties, participants reported a mean total score of 42.47 ± 12.68. The mean score of stress was 18.2 ± 11.36, reflecting a mild severity. Participants with higher stress levels have more difficulties in emotional regulation (r=0.658, p=0.00). Participants with depressive symptoms showed a higher DRES-SF total score (r= 0.629, p=0.00). Participants had a mean anxiety score of 15.6 ± 10.57, reflecting a severe severity. A significant correlation between total DRES-SF score and anxiety (r=0.606, p=0.00).ConclusionsOur study concluded significant positive correlations between depressive symptoms, anxiety, and stress symptoms with emotion regulation difficulties.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Assessment of preoperative anxiety and negative automatic thoughts in patients waiting for corneal transplantation

Introduction and aim. In patients waiting for organ transplantation, increased waiting time can increase anxiety by creating negative automatic thoughts. The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between corneal transplant recipients’ negative automatic thoughts and anxiety before organ transplantation. Material and methods. The population of this correlational descriptive study consisted of 108 patients waiting for cornea transplantation in the Eye Bank unit of a hospital in the south east region of Türkiye. The data were obtained from the patients presented to the ophthalmology clinic for transplantation between September and December 2022. A patient information form, the Negative Automatic Thoughts Scale, and the Trait Anxiety Scale were used to collect the data. Percentage distribution, arithmetic mean, logistic regression and correlation analysis were used in the data analysis. Results. It was determined that the mean score of the negative automatic thoughts of the transplant patients participating in the study was 100.69±47.83, and the trait anxiety mean score was 53.06±6.07. There was a positive relationship between neg ative automatic thoughts and trait anxiety at a moderate level, which was statistically significant (p<0.05, r=0.53). Conclusion. It was determined in the study that the patients’ negative automatic thoughts and trait anxiety were high, and their anxiety increased as the negative automatic thoughts increased.

The effect of the Yara smartphone application on anxiety, sleep quality, and suicidal thoughts in patients with major depressive disorder in Iran: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundDepression is one of the most common mental disorders that leads to anxiety, sleep disturbances, and suicidal thoughts. Due to the high cost of treatment and the reluctance of many patients to seek medical help, major depressive disorder (MDD) is becoming more prevalent. Therefore, alternative methods like smartphone applications can help prevent and improve depression symptoms. The present study aimed to determine the effect of the newly developed Yara smartphone application on anxiety, sleep quality, and suicidal thoughts in patients with MDD.MethodsThis randomized controlled trial with a pretest-posttest design was conducted on Iranian patients with MDD in 2022. Sixty-four patients were recruited using convenience sampling and randomly assigned to two control and intervention groups. The intervention was conducted using the Yara smartphone application for three months. Data were collected using the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation (BSSI). Data were first entered into IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 22 (IBM Corp., Armonk, N.Y., USA) and then analyzed using descriptive and analytical statistics.ResultsThere was no statistically significant difference in the mean score of anxiety and sleep quality between the intervention and control groups before the intervention (p ≥ .05). However, this difference in the mean score of anxiety and sleep quality was statistically significant in the two groups after the intervention (p < .05). The results showed no statistically significant difference in the mean score of suicidal thoughts between the two groups before and after the intervention (p ≥ .05). The use of the Yara smartphone application had a significant positive effect on anxiety and sleep quality in depressed patients (p < .001). At the same time, it had no significant effect on suicidal thoughts (p ≥ .05).ConclusionConsidering the positive effect of using the Yara smartphone application on reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality in depressed patients, this application can help alleviate the problems of depressed patients alongside existing treatment methods. Thus, this application is recommended for this group of patients in psychiatric clinics and departments. The Yara application's effectiveness was not approved on suicidal thoughts in this study so that further investigation would be necessary.Trial RegistrationIranian Registry of Clinical Trial approval code (IRCT# IRCT20131112015390N7).

Healthcare Workers’ General Health and Its Relation with Anxiety, Anger, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder during COVID-19 Outbreak in Southeast Iran

Background. Healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic played an effective role in providing preventive and curative measures. Scientific evidence confirmed that the outbreak of this disease has caused numerous psychological problems such as pre- and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and anger at a global level. This study is aimed at investigating the general health of healthcare workers and its relationship with anxiety, anger, and posttraumatic stress disorder during the outbreak of COVID-19. Methods. This research was a cross-sectional study conducted on 455 healthcare workers of four teaching hospitals in Kerman, southeast of Iran. The convenience sampling method was used. The research tools included the 12-Item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R), the trait anxiety section of State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and the trait anger section of Trait-State Anger Expression Inventory 2 (STAXI-2). Data analysis was done in IBM SPSS Statistics version 25 and using Pearson’s correlation tests, independent t-test, ANOVA, and multivariate linear regression. Results. 28.1% (n=128) of the participants had mental health disorders. The mean score of anxiety was 43.99±9.24 which was at moderate to high level of anxiety. The mean score of anger was 18.65±5.72 which was at the moderate level. The mean score of PTSD was 34.77±15.24 which was less than the midpoint of the questionnaire, i.e., the score of 44. The results of the multiple linear regression model that showed anxiety, anger, gender, and hospital were predictors of mental health (P&lt;0.05). Conclusion. The results of the present study showed that about a quarter of the healthcare workers faced with the COVID-19 pandemic had mental health disorders and suffered from moderate to high anxiety, moderate anger, and PTSD. It was also observed in this study that there was a weak to moderate significant correlation between general health and anxiety, anger, and PTSD in healthcare workers. So, healthcare workers need a lot of social and psychological support.

Comparison of the effect viola odorata and evening primrose on the anxiety of menopausal women referring to health and treatment centers in Khomein city in 1402

Introduction: One of the complaints of women during menopause is anxiety and irritability. There are different ways to reduce anxiety. Given the fact that medicinal plants are more cost-effective than hormone therapy and drug therapy and have fewer side effects, there is a greater tendency to use them to reduce anxiety. Therefore, this study was designed with the aim of comparing the effects of violet and evening primrose flowers on the anxiety of postmenopausal women. Materials and methods: In this randomized clinical trial, 135 postmenopausal women referred to health centers in Khomein City were selected by availability sampling Materials and Methods: After obtaining informed consent from the participants, they were divided into three groups: violet, evening primrose, and control. In the violet flower group, women received 5 ml of violet flower syrup twice a day for one month, and in the evening primrose group, they consumed evening primrose pearl twice a day for one month. There was no intervention in the control group. Data collection was done using a demographic form and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 Items. Following that, the data were analyzed in SPSS version 21 software using descriptive (mean and standard deviation) and inferential (repeated analysis of variance and Bonferroni) statistical tests. Results: The standard deviation and mean anxiety score after taking medicinal plants of violet flower (4.06±12.67; P&lt;0.001), evening primrose (4.62±31.78; P&lt;0.001) were significantly lower than those of the control group (41.29±4.85). Although both intervention groups showed improvement in anxiety, the benefits assigned to the violet flower group were significantly higher than those of the evening primrose group (P&lt;0.001). Conclusion: Violet flower and evening primrose reduced the anxiety of menopausal women.

Use of virtual reality in patient education program to reduce anxiety in upper gastrointestinal endoscopy: A randomized controlled trial.

Virtual reality (VR) provides an immersive image-viewing experience that has recently been expanding its use in clinical medicine. We aimed to examine a patient education program by VR to reduce anxiety in patients undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). We conducted a randomized controlled trial and consecutively enrolled patients who had an indication for unsedated EGD with topical anesthesia. Patients were randomly assigned to use Oculus GO with three-dimensionally specific software content (a stand-alone VR headset) for patient education or standard patient education using oral information (the control group) before EGD. The primary outcome was the variation in anxiety scores before and after patient education programs. A total of 107 patients underwent EGD and received a VR (n = 58) and control (n = 49) patient education program. The mean anxiety score before starting the patient education program was 41.4 9.6 in the VR group and 41.9 7.7 in the control group. The mean anxiety score after the patient education program was 37.1 10.8 in the VR group and 38.9 8.07 in the control group (P-value = 0.354). The anxiety score in the VR group decreased more than in the control group but was not significant. The recall questionnaire scores were higher in the VR group (4.70.4) than the control group (3.91, P-value 0.001). A virtual reality-assisted patient education program before EGD did not significantly reduce anxiety but may provide more memory and understanding about the procedure to patients who underwent unsedated EGD.

Determining the predictors associated with the difficulty of adaptation to ageing of hospitalized older adults. Difficulty of older adult to aging.

To determine the predictors associated with the difficulty of adaptation to ageing of hospitalized older adults. This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in a university hospital between October 2019 and March 2020. The sample consisted of 247 older adults. Research data were collected using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), the Falls Efficacy Scale (FES) International, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and Assessment Scale of Adaptation Difficulty for the Elderly (ASADE). The average age of the patients was 73.90 ± 7.38 years, 22.3% of the patients had a fall history in the last year, and 74.5% had a high fear of falling. The mean FES score of the older adult patients was 35.60 ± 11.09, and the mean VAS score was 1.40 ± 1.36. The mean scores for anxiety was 9.30 ± 2.32 and depression was 10.08 ± 1.96. The mean ASADE total score was 16.56 ± 10.7, role and the self-actualization mode score was 9.05 ± 4.66, interdependence mode score was 2.02 ± 1.02, physiological mode score was 3.00 ± 2.03 and self-concept score was 2.47 ± 2.07. The findings revealed that using walking aids, being single, pain, fear of falling, and anxiety affect adaptation difficulties to aging. Anxiety was found to have an effect on all sub-dimensions of adaptation difficulty to aging. There is a need for further studies to determine the correlation between anxiety and the adaptation difficulties experienced by older adults.

Analytical study of social networking sites usage and social anxiety among physical education students

&lt;div class="translate-tooltip-mtz green sm-root translate hidden_translate"&gt;&lt;div class="header-wrapper"&gt;Social networking sites usages (SNSu) are online platforms used for communication, sharing, and connecting with others. This paper aims to investigate the current status of SNSu among students in physical education college, as well as the differences in SNSu based on gender. Additionally, we aimed to assess the level of social anxiety among the study participants and examine whether it varied by gender and SNSu. We conducted a descriptive survey among 1,109 physical education students (688 females and 421 males) enrolled in public universities. We administered the social anxiety disorder-adult and SNSu questionnaire using Google Forms. We analyzed the data using means, standard deviations, frequencies, percentages, One-way ANOVA, and chi-square tests with a confidence level of 95% (p&amp;lt;0.05). The results of the study showed that both male and female students used social networking sites (SNS) more than 10 times a day, with percentages of 46.3% and 46.1%, respectively. Additionally, 43.7% of male and 49.1% of female students reported using SNS for more than three hours per day. The mean score for social anxiety was 20.20, indicating a severe level of social anxiety among the study participants. Based on the responses of the sample study, the results showed an increase in negative indicators associated with SNSu and these unfavorable indicators were accompanied by an increase in the level of social anxiety.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;

Assessment of Preoperative Anxiety Utilizing Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale in Patients Undergoing Intracranial Tumor Surgery: An Exploratory Study

Abstract Background Preoperative anxiety in neurosurgical patients is high due to life-threatening illness and uncertainty of the surgical outcome. This study assessed preoperative anxiety and its influencing factors in patients undergoing intracranial tumor surgeries utilizing the Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS). Methods One-hundred twenty patients, 18 to 65 years of age, of either sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grades I/II posted for elective craniotomy and tumor excision, were selected for the study. Various components of the APAIS were explained, and the level of anxiety and need for information were noted. The level of anxiety and depression by HADS (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) score was also evaluated. Results The mean age was 38.00 ± 12.15 years. About 57.5% of the patients were male. Eighteen (15%) patients had an educational qualification of class 10, 60(50%) of 10 + 2, 36 (30%) were graduates, and 6 (5%) had a postgraduate qualification.The mean APAIS for total anxiety was 11.10 ± 1.79; the score for need for information was 6.28 ± 1.61. Mean total anxiety scores were higher in female patients (11.96 vs. 10.46, p &lt; 0.001). Higher anxiety was observed in ASA status I patients (11.33 vs. 10.539 ASA I vs. II, p = 0.020). Significantly higher anxiety was observed in patients educated till class 10 (p = 0.012). A significantly higher need for information was observed in postgraduates (p = 0.012). Eighty (66.7%) patients had clinical anxiety, and 35 (29.2%) had clinical depression on the HADS score. Conclusion Neurosurgical patients have higher anxiety due to intracranial pathology, site of surgery, and unpredictability of outcome. Demographic and clinical variables do affect anxiety levels.

Learned helplessness and anxiety among a sample of primary school students with learning difficulties

Introduction. In primary education, understanding the psychological experiences of students with learning difficulties is of utmost importance. Among the various psychological factors that can impact their well-being, learned helplessness and anxiety have been identified as significant contributors. Learned helplessness refers to a state of perceived powerlessness and a belief that one's actions do not influence their outcomes. Coupled with anxiety, it can create a debilitating cycle that hinders academic progress and emotional well-being. This study explores the relationship between learned helplessness and anxiety among a sample of primary school students with learning difficulties. By shedding light on these interrelated factors, this research seeks to provide insights that can inform targeted interventions and support strategies to enhance the educational experiences and overall well-being of students facing learning challenges. Aim. This study aimed to identify the level of learning disability and anxiety among primary school students with learning difficulties in the Karak governorate in Jordan. Materials and methods. The study followed the descriptive survey approach, and the study sample consisted of (150) students from the fifth basic class students in the Karak governorate in Jordan, and to achieve the objectives of the study, the researcher used the learning disability scale and anxiety scale. The results. Students were found to have significant levels of learning impairment, with 19 questions rated as "very difficult" or "very difficult to do." These items revealed students' difficulties with group work tasks, emotions of hopelessness, and perceptions of their own weakness. In one set of data, the statement "I cannot engage in activities of a group work nature" got a mean score of 3.99 and a standard deviation of 1.21. In fact, only 3 items obtained average ratings, with "I avoid tough chores and duties" receiving the lowest score (mean = 3.60, standard deviation = 1.31). High levels of anxiety were also reported by students, with the highest levels being related to problems concentrating and breathing (mean anxiety scores of 4.57 and 4.47, respectively). Traditional teaching methods, overcrowded classrooms, family upbringing, and the educational environment are all hypothesised to contribute to the elevated anxiety levels seen in students with learning impairments. Pervasive difficulties affecting the students' well-being and educational experiences are indicated by the mean scores of 3.78 (SD = 1.12) and 3.89 (SD = 1.08) for learning disability and anxiety, respectively. Conclusions. Primary school kids in Karak governorate, Jordan, who were having difficulty learning found to have high levels of acquired helplessness and anxiety, indicating severe emotional suffering, according to this study. It was speculated that factors such as traditional teaching methods, overcrowded classrooms, parental involvement, and the general educational atmosphere all played a role. The results highlight the immediate need for educational method improvements and the provision of holistic support to lessen the effect of these psychological obstacles on students, with the ultimate goal of bettering their educational experience and general well-being. In light of these findings, it is imperative that educators, politicians, and carers reevaluate and restructure the current educational and support systems to better accommodate students with learning impairments.

Impact of Perceived Academic Stress Upon Academic Performance of Physiotherapy Students - A Cross Sectional Study

Introduction: Stress is prevalent among Healthcare students worldwide. Studies have shown that these students are more likely to suffer from mental health issues and have lower levels of life satisfaction. This research aimed to examine physical therapy students' experiences with academic stress and how it relates to and affects their academic performances. Methods: The study was done among the physical therapy students of AIHMS New Delhi. Using Yamane's formula, the sample size of 260 participants was calculated. The study sample was 272, and participants were asked to fill out a Perceived Mean Stress Score (PMSS) questionnaire using convenient sampling. The data was analyzed by using SPSS version 25. The mean and standard deviation for each response were calculated as a part of descriptive statistics, whereas the Student t-test and ANOVA were applied for inferential statistics to assess the impact of academic stress on their performance. Results: 272 students participated in the study, of which 173 and 99 respondents were females and males, respectively. The respondents were tested for differences in Perceived Mean Stress Score for 13 dimensions. Mean stress scores were significantly higher in students with lower GPA scores and less in students with high GPA scores. Personal finances and Accommodation were found to impact stress ratings significantly (P=0.036*,0.018*). The stress scores were significantly higher in the final years compared to the initial years in Physiotherapy school(P&lt;0.05*). Conclusions: High mean scores for stress and anxiety necessitate early identification, especially in the initial years of Physiotherapy school, and integration of preventive mental health services in routine clinical services for Physiotherapy students.

Impact of recurrent pregnancy loss on depression, anxiety and fertility related stress in Omani women: A cross sectional survey.

Pregnancy is a state of happiness and hope not only for a woman but for her family as well as near and dear ones. However, this phase of happiness comes shattering down for some couple who are not able to successfully complete pregnancy and end up losing a baby in the early stages of pregnancy. Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is prevalent among Omani women and the psychosocial impact of RPL is heavy upon these young women devastating their overall quality of life. Researchers conducted a cross sectional survey among 184 Omani women who had a history of recurrent pregnancy loss in a pioneering teaching tertiary care hospital. Data collection done from using a self-reported questionnaire to assess the depression, anxiety and RPL associated stress of women with history of RPL The mean age of women with RPL was 34.05 and 81% reported 2-3 pregnancy loss. Participants reported higher mean scores of depression (9.94), Anxiety (10.32) and fertility related stress (30.28). Women with multiple pregnancy losses (above 3) reported higher level of anxiety which was significant at (p<0.05%) The findings from current study also indicated that women with RPL experience higher levels of depression, anxiety, and fertility related stress.

Effect of vitamin E with and without saffron on the sexual function in women of reproductive age with sexual dysfunction: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundSexual satisfaction is a crucial part of a fulfilled life, and the ability to have satisfying sexual function is crucial to one’s sexual health. This study investigated the effect of the combined administration of saffron and vitamin E and vitamin E alone on the sexual function of women in their reproductive years.MethodsA triple-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted with 50 participants experiencing sexual dysfunction without comorbid sleep disorders or severe depression. They were allocated into two groups using a block randomization method (stratified based on the severity of moderate or mild/normal depression). During the 8-week intervention period, participants in the experimental group were administered a 15 mg saffron capsule (safrotin) in the morning and a combination capsule containing 15 mg saffron and 50 mg vitamin E (safradide) in the evening. During the same period, the control group consumed one saffron placebo capsule in the morning and one capsule containing 50 mg of vitamin E and saffron placebo in the evening (in identical appearance to safradide). The Female Sexual Function Index was used to assess sexual function, and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) was used to measure levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. These measures were administered at baseline as well as four and eight weeks post-intervention, with an additional measurement taken four weeks after the intervention ceased. The repeated measures ANOVA, ANCOVA, and Mann-Whitney U tests were used to compare the groups.ResultsFollowing the intervention, the experimental group (saffron and vitamin E) demonstrated a statistically significant increase in the overall mean score of sexual function compared to the control group (placebo of saffron and vitamin E) (adjusted mean difference (AMD): 4.6; 95%CI: 3.1 to 6.1; p < 0.001). The mean scores for sexual function dimensions, namely libido, arousal, orgasm, and satisfaction, except for pain, were consistently higher than those of the control group across all time points (p < 0.001). Additionally, the mean score for lubrication was significantly higher only at the eighth-week measurement (p = 0.004). The mean depression score in the experimental group was significantly lower than in the control group at all-time points, i.e., four (p = 0.011) and eight weeks after the intervention (p = 0.005), and four weeks after the end of the intervention (p = 0.007). The experimental group exhibited a statistically significant decrease in mean anxiety score compared to the control group at four weeks into the intervention (p = 0.016) and four weeks following the end of the intervention (p = 0.002). At eight weeks post-intervention, however, there was no significant difference between the groups (p = 0.177). Additionally, the experimental group exhibited a significant reduction in the overall mean stress score compared to the control group after the intervention (AMD: -2.3; 95%CI: -3.1 to -1.5; p < 0.001).ConclusionUsing the combination of saffron and vitamin E is more effective in improving sexual function and its domains compared to vitamin E alone in women of reproductive age with sexual dysfunction without severe depression. Also, it diminishes the degree of depression, anxiety, and stress more compared to vitamin E alone. However, further research is required to arrive at a more definitive conclusion.Trial registrationIranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT): IRCT20100414003706N36. Date of registration: 17/05/2020; URL: https://en.irct.ir/trial/45992; Date of first registration: 21/05/2020.

Embitterment in Vietnam War Veterans Predicted by Symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder.

Research on the association between posttraumatic embitterment disorder (PTED) and other psychopathologies in veterans and adults aged ≥65 years is lacking. This study aimed to assess embitterment among elderly war veterans and its association with major psychopathological factors. Participants included Vietnam War veterans who visited a psychiatric clinic. Based on the Posttraumatic Embitterment Disorder Self-Rating Scale (PTEDS) score, the participants were divided into the embitterment (PTED(+), mean score of PTEDS items [mPTEDS] ≥1.6) and non-embitterment (PTED(-), mPTEDS <1.6) groups. Demographic characteristics, combat exposure severity, depression, anxiety, sleep, and alcohol use disorder symptom scores of the participants were collected and compared between the PTED(+) and PTED(-) groups. A correlation analysis between symptom measure scores and the mPTEDS was conducted. The influence of psychopathology on embitterment was investigated using stepwise multiple linear regression analysis. In total, 60 participants (28 in PTED(+) and 32 in PTED(-)) were included. Among those in PTED(+), 21 (35.0%) showed mild embitterment symptoms (1.6≤ mPTEDS <2.5) and 7 (11.7%) reported moderate or severe embitterment symptoms (mPTEDS ≥2.5). The mean scores of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety were significantly higher in the PTED(+) than in the PTED(-) group. The mPTEDS were significantly correlated with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and sleep disorder scores. The PTSD symptoms significantly explained the higher mPTEDS score in a regression model. Embitterment symptoms were associated with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and insomnia symptoms in elderly veterans, similar to the results of prior studies involving only the general population.

Evaluation of anxiety and hopelessness levels in emergency service workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Turkey

Background/Aim: The COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant threat to the lives of individuals, particularly frontline healthcare workers. This brought about negative emotions, such as anxiety and hopelessness. Despite the existence of research evaluating psychiatric symptoms among healthcare personnel during the COVID-19 pandemic, this study is also significant in terms of evaluating and emphasizing the common negative emotions experienced by frontline healthcare workers during the pandemic. This study aimed to evaluate anxiety and hopelessness levels in emergency service workers during the COVID-19 pandemic and to examine these levels in terms of specific variables. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among emergency service healthcare workers, including doctors, nurses, and healthcare officers working in a training and research hospital from July 10 to August 10, 2020 during the pandemic. Participants completed a survey that included a sociodemographic information form, the State and Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and the Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS). A total of 135 personnel without a history of psychiatric illness or use of psychiatric medication were included in the study. Results: Of the 135 participants in the study, 67 were female, and 68 were male. The mean state anxiety score for all participants was 44.5 (12.6), trait anxiety score was 44.2 (7.3) and hopelessness score was 7.1 (5.2). It was found that the anxiety of emergency service workers during the pandemic was at a moderate level and their hopelessness was at a mild level. In the study, higher scores were found in hopelessness and state-trait anxiety measurements in married individuals compared to single participants (P=0.040, P=0.003, P=0.001, respectively). Trait anxiety scores were significantly higher among those with chronic diseases compared to those without chronic diseases, and in those living with families compared to those living alone (P=0.039 and P=0.017, respectively). A positive and moderate relationship was observed between hopelessness levels and state-trait anxiety levels (P&lt;0.001 for all, r=0.457, r=0.425, respectively). Conclusion: During the COVID-19 pandemic, increased levels of anxiety and hopelessness were detected among healthcare workers in emergency services. It was observed that as the working time in the emergency department increased, hopelessness and state anxiety levels of the employees also increased.

Can a PERMA model-based positive psychological intervention affect the SIA and SWB of vocational college students majoring in nursing in China?

The study was conducted to investigate the effects of a PERMA model-based positive psychological intervention on vocational college students' social interaction anxiety and subjective well-being. This is an experimental study in which data were collected through self-administered questionnaire. A total of 261 students from four classes at Caofeidian College of Technology without differences in the levels of social interaction anxiety and subjective well-being were selected as the control group and intervention group randomly. Students in the control group received a traditional psychological intervention, while students in the invention group received a PERMA model-based positive psychological intervention. Thereafter, the research team collected data regarding students' social interaction anxiety and subjective well-being. Based on the result obtained, the mean score for social interaction anxiety in the invention group was significantly lower than those in the control group (42.95 vs. 53.07, p < 0.001) and the mean score for subjective well-being was significantly higher than those in the control group (92.58 vs. 87.26, p < 0.001). A PERMA model-based positive psychological intervention can effectively relieve the social interaction anxiety of nursing students in vocational colleges, and improve their subjective well-being levels.

Anxiety, depression, and body image among infertile women with and without polycystic ovary syndrome.

In women undergoing fertility treatment, do those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have a higher prevalence of symptoms of anxiety and depression and lower body appreciation than women without PCOS? Having PCOS was not associated with symptoms of anxiety and depression but was associated with somewhat lower body appreciation. PCOS has been associated with a higher chance to develop mental health problems, like anxiety, and body image concerns. The International Guidelines on PCOS recommend that all women with PCOS should routinely be screened for anxiety and depressive disorders. In most studies in this field, the comparison group included healthy women without fertility problems. We conducted a cross-sectional survey study between May 2021 and July 2023, using an online questionnaire. We informed women about this study at fertility clinics in the Netherlands through posters and leaflets and on the websites of the Dutch patient organizations Freya and Stichting PCOS. This study included women with infertility, with and without PCOS, who were undergoing fertility treatment. Women completed two assessment tools: the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2). Primary outcomes were clinically relevant symptoms of anxiety (score ≥ 11) and depression (score ≥ 11), and BAS-2 scores. Secondary outcomes were mean anxiety and depression scores and anxiety and depression scores of 8 and higher. Dichotomous outcomes and continuous outcomes were analysed using logistic and linear regression analyses adjusted for age, BMI, and duration of infertility. A total of 1025 women currently undergoing infertility treatment participated, of whom 502 (49.0%) had PCOS and 523 (51.0%) had other infertility diagnoses. We found self-reported clinically relevant symptoms of anxiety in 33.1% of women with PCOS and in 31.0% of women with other infertility diagnoses (adjusted OR: 0.99, 95% CI 0.74-1.31). Clinically relevant symptoms of depression were reported in 15.5% of women with PCOS versus 14.5% of women with other infertility diagnoses (adjusted OR: 1.04, 95% CI 0.71-1.50). Women with PCOS reported slightly less body appreciation (adjusted mean difference: -1.34, 95% CI -2.32 to -0.36). Results are based on self-report and may have been affected by sampling bias. Although guidelines recommend screening women with PCOS, feelings of anxiety and depression can be present in any woman undergoing fertility treatments. We advise fertility clinics to be aware of women's mental health issues and to offer support accordingly, as a part of routine care. This study did not receive specific funding. All authors report no conflict of interest related to the current research. This study was pre-registered at OSF: https://osf.io/qbeav.

Protective and Risk Factors for Suicidal Ideation and Behavior Among Sexual Minority Women in the United States: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to understand the factors associated with suicidal ideation and behavior and serious suicidal ideation and behavior among sexual minority women (SMW), including resilience, discrimination, mental health, and sociodemographic characteristics. Methods: Web-based surveys were conducted with SMW from across the United States during January-February, 2022 using psychometric valid tools. Bivariate, hierarchical regression, and logistic regression analyses were used to analyze the data. Results: Of 497 participants, 70% were identified as bisexual and 30% as lesbian. The mean scores for anxiety, depression, and stress were significantly higher among bisexual women compared to their lesbian counterparts (p < 0.05). The proportion of serious suicidal ideation and behavior was higher among bisexual women compared to lesbian women (53.9% vs. 41.2%, p = 0.012). Conversely, the mean scores of resilience were lower among bisexual women compared to lesbian women (139.7 ± 33.4 vs. 147.5 ± 33.6, p = 0.024). Lesbian women had nearly 57.4% lower odds of having serious suicidal ideation and behavior as compared to bisexual women (adjusted odds ratio = 0.426; p = 0.023). Experiencing anxiety, depression, victimization distress, and family discrimination distress were positively associated with serious suicidal ideation and behavior, whereas personal resilience and family cohesion were negatively associated with serious suicidal ideation and behavior. Conclusions: Tackling structural inequities such as racism and homophobia remains vital to improving the mental health of SMW. Interventions to strengthen social and familial supports may be particularly impactful, especially at the family level.

A Randomized Trial of Two Remote Health Care Delivery Models on the Uptake of Genetic Testing and Impact on Patient-Reported Psychological Outcomes in Families With Pancreatic Cancer: The Genetic Education, Risk Assessment, and Testing (GENERATE) Study

Background and AimsGenetic testing uptake for cancer susceptibility in family members of cancer patients is suboptimal. Among relatives of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients, The GENetic Education, Risk Assessment, and TEsting (GENERATE) study evaluated two online genetic education/testing delivery models and their impact on patient-reported psychological outcomes (PRPOs). MethodsEligible participants had ≥1 first-degree relative with PDAC, or ≥1 first-/second-degree relative with PDAC with a known pathogenic germline variant in one of thirteen PDAC predisposition genes. Participants were randomized by family, between 5/8/2019-6/1/2021. Arm 1 participants underwent a remote interactive telemedicine session and online genetic education. Arm 2 participants were offered online genetic education only. All participants were offered germline testing. The primary outcome was genetic testing uptake, compared by permutation tests and mixed-effects logistic regression models. We hypothesized that Arm 1 participants would have a higher genetic testing uptake than Arm 2. Validated surveys were administered to assess patient-reported anxiety, depression, and cancer worry at baseline and 3-months post-intervention. Results424 families were randomized, including 601 participants (n=296 Arm 1; n=305 Arm 2), 90% of whom completed genetic testing (Arm 1 (87%); Arm 2 (93%), p=0.014). Arm 1 participants were significantly less likely to complete genetic testing compared to Arm 2 (adjusted ratio (Arm1/Arm2) 0.90, 95% confidence interval 0.78-0.98). Among participants who completed PRPO questionnaires (Arm 1 (n=194); Arm 2 (n=206)), the intervention did not impact mean anxiety, depression or cancer worry scores. ConclusionsRemote genetic education and testing can be a successful and complementary option for delivering genetics care.