Mental Health Support Programs Research Articles

The Role of Interpersonal Communication in Maintaining The Mental Health of University Students in Makassar: A Phenomenological Study

Maintaining mental health among university students is a growing concern, especially in culturally rich regions like Makassar. This study investigates the role of interpersonal communication in supporting the mental well-being of students in Makassar. The research aims to understand how students utilize interpersonal communication to address mental health challenges and adapt to academic and social environments. Using a qualitative approach with an interpretative phenomenological design, in-depth interviews were conducted with ten students from various study programs in Makassar. The findings reveal five primary functions of interpersonal communication: (1) serving as emotional catharsis, (2) establishing social support systems, (3) managing conflicts and academic pressures, (4) aiding cultural adaptation for migrant students, and (5) facilitating mental health care through technology. The research highlights the influence of local cultural values, such as sipakatau (mutual respect) and siri' na pacce (a sense of shame and empathy), on the ways interpersonal communication is practiced. The results underscore the importance of interpersonal communication skills in equipping students for academic and professional challenges. These findings have critical implications for higher education institutions in designing mental health support programs that are culturally sensitive and address students' interpersonal communication needs.

The Impact of Traffic Congestion on the Mental Health of Civil Servants: A Case Study of Ministry of Transportation Employees in the Greater Jakarta Area

This study aims to investigate the psychological effects of prolonged traffic congestion on civil servants working in the Ministry of Transportation in the Greater Jakarta Area. As one of the most densely populated regions in Indonesia, Greater Jakarta experiences severe daily traffic, which has the potential to exacerbate mental health issues. The research employed a quantitative approach through a structured survey distributed to 102 respondents. The respondents were classified into three categories of mental health disorders: high, moderate, and low, based on validated psychological scales. The results indicated that 51.20% of respondents experienced severe mental health disorders, while 39.21% reported moderate disorders, and 8.82% exhibited mild symptoms. Emotional regulation difficulties, anxiety, and mood disturbances were significantly related to traffic exposure. The study recommends implementing flexible work arrangements, improving public transportation infrastructure, and providing mental health support programs to mitigate the adverse effects of traffic congestion on civil servants. These findings highlight the need for urgent policy interventions to promote the well-being of public servants in urban settings, particularly those affected by chronic congestion.

Past-year substance use behaviors among university admission test-takers: insights from Bangladesh

University entrance test-takers are a vulnerable group of students transitioning from adolescence to youth, a peak time for adopting unhealthy behaviors. However, limited studies investigate substance use behaviors among this group. This study aimed to investigate the current (past 12 months) prevalence, associated risk factors, and geographic distribution of substance use behaviors, employing spatial analysis to identify regional disparities. A cross-sectional study was conducted utilizing convenience sampling in February 2024 among university entrance test-takers at Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka, Bangladesh (N = 1485). Participants provided information on socio-demographics, admission-related, depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), and substance use. Chi-square tests and logistic regression were employed to explore significant associations, with spatial analysis using ArcGIS to map substance use across districts. About 20.8% reported smoking, 10.1% reported drug use, and 9.9% reported alcohol consumption over the past 12 months. Males exhibited higher rates of smoking (23.1% vs. 17.6%) and alcohol consumption (10% vs. 9.7%), while females reported slightly higher rates of drug use (10.2% vs. 10%). Being female (AOR = 0.56; 95% CI: 0.40–0.79; p = 0.001), living in rural areas (AOR = 0.68; 95% CI: 0.49–0.94; p = 0.020), having a higher monthly family income (AOR = 1.72; 95% CI: 1.01–2.91; p = 0.042), a history of physical illness (AOR = 2.65; 95% CI: 1.87–3.76; p < 0.001), being a repeat test-taker (AOR = 1.49; 95% CI: 1.08–2.05; p = 0.014), and satisfaction with previous mock tests (AOR = 1.66; 95% CI: 1.20–2.28; p = 0.002) were significant risk factors for smoking. For drug use, belonging to a joint family (AOR = 1.71; 95% CI: 1.08–2.71; p = 0.021), having a history of physical illness (AOR = 2.57; 95% CI: 1.64–4.02; p < 0.001), and satisfaction with previous mock tests (AOR = 1.84; 95% CI: 1.20–2.83; p = 0.005) increased the risk. Additionally, a history of physical illness (AOR = 5.12; 95% CI: 3.27–8.02; p < 0.001) and satisfaction with previous mock tests (AOR = 1.78; 95% CI: 1.13–2.80; p = 0.013) were contributing factors to alcohol consumption. Spatial analyses indicated higher rates of substance use in border districts. The findings warrant targeted interventions, such as mental health support and substance use prevention programs, particularly in high-risk regions. By understanding the factors driving substance use, tailored strategies can be developed to reduce risk behaviors among university entrance test-takers, ultimately enhancing public health outcome in this vulnerable population.

Improving resilience and mental well-being among refugees residing at asylum centers in the Netherlands: A pre-post feasibility study

BackgroundFew studies have explored the effects of mental health and psychosocial support programs among refugees residing at asylum centers. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of a positive psychology intervention called BAMBOO among refugees temporarily residing at asylum centers in the Netherlands. MethodData was collected at 35 asylum centers from 243 participants who completed five weekly two-hour sessions. Pre- and post-changes in resilience, happiness, and positive and negative affect were assessed using a one-group pretest–posttest design. Also, program fidelity, participant satisfaction, and program activity suitability were evaluated. ResultsCompleter and intention-to-treat analyses revealed a significant medium increase in resilience, a large increase in happiness, a small increase in positive affect, and a medium decrease in negative affect. Reliable change indices showed a positive change in 24 % of the participants on resilience and 13 % on positive and negative affect, respectively. Participant retention was 80 %. Moreover, participant satisfaction was high. Also, a substantial proportion of participants evaluated reading and writing-based activities as less suitable in comparison to activities based on verbal and creative expression, physical movement, and meditation/prayer. ConclusionsFindings showed significant increases in scores from pre- to post-assessment on resilience, happiness, and positive affect and a decrease in negative affect. Since the study design limits the ability to attribute causation, future controlled studies should be conducted to stablish stronger evidence regarding the program's effects. Additionally, the program could benefit from further adaptation to enhance its cultural sensitivity. Trial registration number: ISRCTN18019972

Outcomes of integrating livelihood into mental health and psychosocial support program among survivors of torture: A mixed-method study from western Nepal.

From 1996 to 2006, Nepal experienced a decade-long armed conflict that adversely impacted survivors of torture. The conflict posed threats to various facets of their lives, such as men-tal health, socio-economic status, human rights, and the process of reintegration into their original communities. This study was done with the survivors of torture from the armed conflict. This study aims to generate evidence on the impact of livelihood support (supporting individuals with earning their livelihood through business development, farming/animal husbandry and mi-cro-entrepreneurship) upon mental health and psychosocial wellbeing as well as social empower-ment of survivors of torture. In total, 44 out of 46 torture survivors reported improvement in their mental health and psychosocial well-being after the livelihood intervention was instituted. Significant reduction in the severity of symptoms of depression (21.7% to 2.3%), anxiety (15.2% to 6.8%), and post-traumatic stress disorder (44.4% to 4.5%) was observed with medium to high effect size. Similarly, improvement in social relationship, economic status, and autonomy (increase in self-confidence and motivation) were noticed post-intervention. Our study concludes that the livelihood intervention has significantly contributed to economic uplift, improved mental health, psychosocial well-being, social empowerment and quality of life among the survivors of torture. The data provide preliminary evidence of positive outcomes from integrating a livelihood program into an MHPSS (Mental Health and Psychosocial Support) program. Although the lack of a control group prevents us from isolating the specific impacts of the livelihood program, our qualitative data indicate that the intervention is well-received, culturally rel-evant, and promising. The study has yielded certain recommendations for further research.

Assessment of stress level and depression among orthopaedic surgeons in Saudi Arabia

PurposeThe aim of this study was to assess the stress level and depression among orthopaedic surgeons in Saudi Arabia. In addition, to evaluate orthopedic training programs related factors that might have a critical role in the development of depression among orthopaedic surgeons.MethodsThe study adopted a cross-sectional study design. Two validated questionnaires were utilized, the Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) for assessing depressive symptoms and stress levels. Data was collected by sending the survey to the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties so they could be distributed throughout all registered orthopaedic surgeons.ResultsThe study sample consisted of 325 participants. The results revealed that the severity of depression varied across the different groups. As per the PHQ-9 criteria, 74 (22.8%) were initially diagnosed with major depression. Among assistant consultants, 39.5% reported severe depression, while 34.9% reported mild depression. Consultants predominantly reported moderate perceived stress (82.9%) with a notable proportion experiencing high perceived stress (12.4%). Assistant consultants showed a balanced distribution, with 93.0% reporting moderate perceived stress and 4.7% reporting high perceived stress. Demographic variables gender, relationship status and having children revealed statistically significant relationship with PHQ-9 scores (p-value < 0.05) but not with PSS-10 scores.ConclusionThe study highlights pressing need to address mental health concerns within orthopaedic surgeons. To address these challenges, healthcare institutions should implement comprehensive mental health support programs offering resources for stress management, counseling services, and peer support groups.

COVID-19 Fear and Coping Strategies during the Pandemic: Insights from Greek health services units.

The aim of this study was to assess the fear caused by the COVID-19 pandemic among health services users in Greece. The study involved 1260 participants from three health services units in the prefecture of Corinthia. The COVID-19 Fear Scale (FCV-19S) and the Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced Inventory (Brief-COPE) were used to assess fear levels. Results showed that females experienced a significantly higher fear of COVID-19 (15.9 compared to 15.4), while the age group of>60 years had the highest mean score (16.6). Individuals in retirement showed a greater fear of COVID-19 (16.8), while health sector employees had lower fear scores (15.1). Chronically ill patients had a higher fear of COVID-19 (16.5 as opposed to 15.5 of healthy persons), while people considering that the COVID-19 pandemic will be dealt with soon presented lower levels of fear compared to those not considering it or being uncertain. According to the Brief-COPE questionnaire, fear of COVID-19 total scores was positively correlated with two of the coping subscales; the emotion-focused and the avoidant-coping. The study's findings can contribute to the identification of fear and coping strategies for the development of targeted interventions and mental health support programs during this global crisis.

Гнучка зайнятість як засіб збереження робочих місць на українських підприємствах під час війни

The article examines the relevance of flexible forms of employment in the context of current economic challenges, especially in connection with the war in Ukraine. Ensuring the effectiveness of flexible employment is critical for preserving jobs and maintaining the economic stability of enterprises in the current crisis conditions. The purpose of the study was to analyze approaches to the introduction of flexible employment at Ukrainian enterprises and recommendations for adapting the existing model of flexible employment to the conditions of martial law to preserve jobs at enterprises and ensure a balance between the economic interests of enterprises and social guarantees for employees considering the specifics of the modern labor market, and to develop. It has been proven that in times of crisis, flexible forms of employment become a vital tool for preserving jobs and maintaining economic stability, as well as increasing the adaptability of employees to changing labor market conditions, which is critical in times of crisis. However, existing flexible employment models need to be adapted to war conditions. The article develops recommendations for enterprises to introduce flexible forms of employment that allow them to maintain productivity and minimize social tension among employees. These recommendations include using remote work, part-time work, and digital platforms to attract freelancers, as well as measures to improve the social protection of employees, implement mental health support programs, and adapt labor contracts to the new conditions. The practical value of the study lies in the development of specific recommendations for enterprises that will allow them not only to maintain their functioning in the crisis but also to ensure sustainability and development in the long term. The proposed measures can be used as a basis for further improvement of HR management strategies in conditions of instability and crisis. Keywords: flexible employment, crisis model, social guarantees, remote work, outsourcing, outstaffing.

Exploring Risk Perception, Mental Health, Mental Fatigue, Stigma, and the Quality of Life among UAE Healthcare Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A National Multicentric Cross-Sectional Study.

Globally, the COVID-19 pandemic has presented serious mental health challenges for healthcare professionals. This study investigated the mental health, mental fatigue, quality of life, and stigma of social discrimination among healthcare workers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) during the COVID-19 pandemic. A correlational, cross-sectional, multi-centric design was employed to collect data from 1383 healthcare workers across various healthcare settings. Participants were recruited using combined cluster and purposive sampling techniques. Standardized questionnaires, including the COVID-19 Pandemic Mental Health Questionnaire (CoPaQ), the Mental Fatigue Scale (MFS), the Social Discrimination Scale-Stigma Subscale (SDS), and the WHO Quality of Life Questionnaire-Brief (WHOQOL-BREF), were administered to assess the study variables. The results indicated significant mental health impacts, with high average scores for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (9.37 ± 6.74) and positive coping by inner strengths (17.63 ± 5.72). Mental fatigue was prevalent (8.15 ± 8.62), and stigma of social discrimination scored notably (23.83 ± 7.46). Quality of life was the highest in the social domain (65.38 ± 24.58). Significant correlations were observed between mental health subscales, mental fatigue, and quality of life domains. These findings highlight the critical need for targeted mental health support programs, improved social support networks, and personalized interventions to mitigate the mental health challenges faced by healthcare workers. Healthcare organizations can guarantee a resilient workforce that can handle future health crises by giving mental health resources and support systems top priority.

Navigating the cultural adaptation of a US-based online mental health and social support program for use with young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander males in the Northern Territory, Australia: Processes, outcomes, and lessons

BackgroundDespite disproportionate rates of mental ill-health compared with non-Indigenous populations, few programs have been tailored to the unique health, social, and cultural needs and preferences of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander males. This paper describes the process of culturally adapting the US-based Young Black Men, Masculinities, and Mental Health (YBMen) Project to suit the needs, preferences, culture, and circumstances of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander males aged 16–25 years in the Northern Territory, Australia. YBMen is an evidence-based social media-based education and support program designed to promote mental health, expand understandings of gender and cultural identities, and enhance social support in college-aged Black men.MethodsOur adaptation followed an Extended Stages of Cultural Adaptation model. First, we established a rationale for adaptation that included assessing the appropriateness of YBMen’s core components for the target population. We then investigated important and appropriate models to underpin the adapted program and conducted a non-linear, iterative process of gathering information from key sources, including young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander males, to inform program curriculum and delivery.ResultsTo maintain program fidelity, we retained the core curriculum components of mental health, healthy masculinities, and social connection and kept the small cohort, private social media group delivery but developed two models: ‘online only’ (the original online delivery format) and ‘hybrid in-person/online’ (combining online delivery with weekly in-person group sessions). Adaptations made included using an overarching Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander social and emotional wellbeing framework and socio-cultural strengths-based approach; inclusion of modules on health and wellbeing, positive Indigenous masculinities, and respectful relationships; use of Indigenous designs and colours; and prominent placement of images of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander male sportspeople, musicians, activists, and local role models.ConclusionsThis process resulted in a culturally responsive mental health, masculinities, and social support health promotion program for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander males. Next steps will involve pilot testing to investigate the adapted program’s acceptability and feasibility and inform further refinement. Keywords: Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, Indigenous, Australia, male, cultural adaptation, social media, mental health, masculinities, social support.

Nurses Supporting Nurses: A Model for Providing Mental Health Services During War.

Nurses routinely face psychological challenges as part of their work, acutely so during times of crises when nurses may treat many severely injured and dying patients. While the need for such support is well documented in the literature, mental health support programmes aimed at healthcare workers, even when available, are often underutilised, especially by nurses. To gain insights about needed mental health supports for nurses and programme implementation, this study examines a programme launched following a surprise attack on Israel on 7 October, 2023, resulting in thousands of deaths and injuries and precipitating a war. The programme deployed 30 volunteer nurses trained in cognitive behavioural therapy, trauma support and mental health first aid to offer up to three, anonymous, 30-min online therapy sessions to nurses around Israel in December 2023. Using a qualitative descriptive design, we engaged 22 of these volunteers in one of the three focus groups lasting 60-90 min each. Our findings highlight a range of mental health issues-among both the volunteers and therapy recipients-as well as barriers to providing mental health support to nurses. The importance of normalising the pursuit of mental health support in nursing education and ensuring the availability of support in healthcare organisations was emphasised.

Regarding The Mental Health of Students At Ho Chi Minh City Open University, Viet Nam

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to assess the mental health status of university students at Hồ Chí Minh City Open University using the MHI-18 scale. It aims to provide insights that inform the development of targeted support programs and interventions to enhance student well-being and academic performance. Theoretical Framework: The theoretical framework of this study is grounded in the MHI-18 scale, which assesses mental health across dimensions of emotional well-being and behavioral control among university students. It integrates theories of psychological resilience and coping strategies to understand students' responses to mental health challenges. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study employed a cross-sectional design, surveying 425 students at Hồ Chí Minh City Open University using the MHI-18 scale to gather quantitative data on their mental health status. Data analysis included descriptive statistics and interpretation of scale scores to assess prevalent mental health issues and coping mechanisms among students. Findings: The findings indicate that a significant proportion of surveyed students at Hồ Chí Minh City Open University experience mental health challenges, yet demonstrate effective behavioral control and the ability to foster positive emotions in response to these challenges. Implications: The findings suggest a need for tailored mental health support programs at Hồ Chí Minh City Open University to address prevalent student mental health issues and promote resilience-building strategies. Universities can use these insights to enhance student well-being and academic success through targeted interventions and campus-wide mental health initiatives.

Stress, Anxiety and Depression in First-year Medical Undergraduates and Coping Strategies Employed during COVID-19-induced Online Learning: A Cross-sectional Study from North India

Abstract Background: The COVID-19 pandemic, due to its rising uncertainties, was expected to negatively impact the overall psychological functioning of students undergoing first year of medical professional education with changing teaching styles and environmental restraints. Objective: The objective was to assess the impact of this stressful period on the first-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) students at an Institute of National importance in North India, by measuring their various emotional states such as stress, anxiety, depression and coping strategies. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study undertaken in first-year MBBS students who were admitted in February 2021 due to delay in the admission process. Their physical classes were suspended due to the onset of second wave of COVID-19 and underwent a significant shift from conventional classes to a hybrid teaching module involving online classes, minimal face-to-face contact with teachers and almost no practical exposure which is in contrast to the conventional teaching practices. Data collection was done during and in the aftermath of second wave of COVID-19 using the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) to assess emotional state and the Brief-Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced Inventory to measure the coping strategies employed. Results: One hundred and twenty-five students were approached and 80 consented to participate. The 80 students were analysed. Elevated depressive symptomatology scores were found in 46% of students, of which 14% had scores falling in severe category. More than 62% had elevated anxiety scores, of which 26% had severe range of scores, and 37% students had elevated stress scores, of which more than 10% had severe range of scores. Venting, humour and self-blame were found to be the predominant facets of coping styles employed and they had a significant statistical correlation with all three subscales of DASS-21. Conclusion: The study found a significant prevalence of depressive, anxiety and stress symptomatology. These findings emphasise the need for mental health interventions and support programmes for medical college MBBS students to help them cope with the psychological impact of academic and personal stressors.

Islamic Religiosity as a Control of Suicide Intent among Final-Year Students through Spiritual Experience

This research investigates the impact of Islamic religiosity and spiritual experiences on suicide intent among final-year students. The phenomenon of final-year students experiencing difficulties in completing their final assignments and even resorting to suicide serves as the background for this study. The research methodology employed is quantitative with a survey approach. Data analysis was conducted using path analysis techniques through Mplus version 8.0 software and its supporting tool, IBM SPSS version 24. The study's population consisted of final-year students at Sriwijaya University and Raden Fatah State Islamic University, Palembang. The sample was selected using a multistage sampling technique, with 412 respondents. This study used research instruments, including the Harkavy Asnis Suicide Scale (HASS) by Jill M. Harkavy Friedman, the Islamic Religiosity Scale by Hisham Abu Raiya et al., and the Daily Spiritual Experience Scale by Lynn G. Underwood. The research results indicate that Islamic religiosity has a significant influence on suicide intent through spiritual experiences as a mediator. Spiritual experiences are associated with a reduction in suicide intent, and both factors contribute to reducing suicide intent among students (R Square Change = 12%). Additionally, there is also a direct influence of Islamic religiosity on suicide intent without mediation. Similar findings apply to spiritual experiences. Recommendations from this research include encouraging students to engage in religious practices, strengthening spiritual experiences, and maintaining a balance between academic and religious aspects. The importance of mental health support and suicide prevention programs within the campus environment is also emphasized.

Follow-up of telemedicine mental health interventions amid COVID-19 pandemic

The initiation of the program Mental Health Support Program for Coronavirus Infection addressed the increased demand for mental health services in the province of Salamanca, resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. The psychiatry service provided care for COVID-19 patients, their families, and healthcare workers who treated them, as these groups were identified as being at risk. This study aims to describe the assistance provided, including personnel and resources utilized, types of interventions carried out, and to assess the demand for mental health care and predominant symptoms and emotions experienced by patients. Billboards and the complex’s intranet publicized the program. Specific clinical approach using telemedicine were provide from March 2020 to December 2021 to COVID-19 patients, their relatives, and healthcare workers. 216 patients were included with a mean age of 53.2 years, with women comprising 77.3% of this group. All the groups received treatment in similar proportions. Over a period of 730 h, a total of 1376 interventions were performed, with an average duration of 31.8 min per intervention. The program could treat 79.6% of these patients without requiring referrals to other services. When the program concluded, only 21 participants (9.7%) were discharged to the local mental health network to continue their mental health treatment. The program effectively reduced the burden on regular mental health services due to its ability to treat most patients without requiring referrals. The program was able to attend to most mental health requests with minimal involvement of the regular mental health service.

A Process Evaluation of a Mobile App for Medical Students Aimed at Increasing Resilience and Decreasing Stigma in Mental Health.

The purpose of this pilot study was to conduct a process evaluation of a mental health and wellness mobile health (mHealth) application for medical students designed to increase resilience and decrease mental health stigma. The customized application, MindfulMEDS, was developed with peer-focused interactive modules specific tomedical students within an existing system called Sharpen®. The Sharpen® system contains an extensive library of didactic and experientialmental health and wellness content built specifically to promote evidence-based protective factors for resilience.A mixed-methods approach including surveys and focus groups assessed participant resiliency, perception of mental health within the context of medical school, and evaluation of the app. Assessments wereconducted atbaseline (n = 66), six months (n = 30), and one year (n = 24). Demographic information was collected once at baseline as a part of the initial survey. Results: A total of 215 users were registered in MindfulMEDS, consumed83 courses, and engaged in 1,428 "connect clicks" to community resources and crisis-response supports. Resilience levels did not change significantly between surveys; however, a significant decrease in the perception of mental health stigma associated with utilizing mental health resources was observed. Focus group participants (n = 11) reported the screening tools to be useful, encouraged expansion, and suggested additional reminders to access the app to increase engagement. Findings of this pilot study demonstrate the feasibility of implementing MindfulMEDS (an mHealth app focused on mental health and wellness) among medical students. Students found the app experience valuable, accessed mental health screeners embedded within the app, utilized the app to seek help, and engaged with the app to learn more about mental health. There was also a decrease in mental health stigma observed during the course of the study. Based on these results, we propose that medical schools incorporate mobile-based technology into their mental health support programs.

Exploring the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress among university students in Bangladesh and their determinants

BackgroundDepression, anxiety and stress among university students present a growing global challenge. This study aims to explore the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress and identifying their associated factors among university students in Bangladesh. MethodsWe analyzed data of 738 university students collected through a cross-sectional survey. Outcome variables considered were depression, anxiety, and stress levels. Explanatory variables considered were several socio-demographic characteristics. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was employed to explore the association of the outcome variables with explanatory variables. ResultsWe found a notable prevalence of moderate to severe levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among university students in Bangladesh, ranging from 25 % to 71 %. Among students from extended families, there was a 32 % lower likelihood of experiencing moderate depression (relative risk ratio [RRR], 0.68; 95 % confidence interval [CI], 0.47–0.97) and a 35 % lower likelihood of experiencing stress (RRR, 0.65; 95 % CI, 0.44–0.97) compared to their counterparts without depression and stress. Furthermore, students enrolled in the business faculty reported a significantly higher likelihood of stress, with a 2.28 times greater odds (95 % CI, 1.32–3.93) compared to students in the Science and Engineering faculty. ConclusionThis study underscores the pressing necessity for tailored interventions to address the elevated prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress among university students in Bangladesh. The findings accentuate the importance of recognizing diverse risk factors and implementing mental health support programs.

Association of dysmenorrhea with stress among female students at Universal College of Medical Sciences, Bhairahawa

Background: Dysmenorrhea, the cramping pain experienced by women during menstruation, can significantly impact their daily lives and academic performance. Mental stress is a potential trigger for dysmenorrhea, but their association remains to be precisely determined. This study aims to explore the prevalence of dysmenorrhea among undergraduate female students at Universal College of Medical Sciences and investigate its association with perceived stress.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate female students at Universal College of Medical Sciences, Bhairahawa. Participants were selected using a simple random sampling method. A structured questionnaire, including anthropometric data, menstrual history, and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), were used for data collection. PSS scores were used to categorize stress levels as low, moderate, or high.Results: Total 196 female students participated in the study. Dysmenorrhea was present in 80.1% of the participants, with 34.7% seeking treatment for the condition. Additionally, 29.6% of the students reported moderate to severe premenstrual symptoms. Most students (81.6%) had a moderate level of perceived stress. Statistical analysis revealed a significant association between dysmenorrhea and level of perceived stress (p &lt; 0.001).Conclusion: The study findings highlight a considerable prevalence of dysmenorrhea among female students at Universal College. The association between dysmenorrhea and perceived stress underscores the importance of addressing the psychosocial well-being of these students. Implementing supportive measures, such as mental health support and stress management programs, can create a more conducive environment for students to manage dysmenorrhea and its impact on their academic performance.

Comparing the effectiveness of narrative therapy and EMDR-GTEP protocols in the treatment of post-traumatic stress in children exposed to humanitarian crises

BackgroundThe mental health of children living in humanitarian crisis situations is a major issue. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) causes great psychological suffering and has negative consequences on children's development. The aim of the study was to analyze retrospective data collected in a mental health and psychosocial support program for children in the Central African Republic, and to compare results of two trauma-focused treatment interventions: the narrative protocol Action contre la Faim (ACF)/KONO; and the EMDR-based Group Trauma Episode Protocol (G-TEP). Both protocols are proposed in a group setting and led by paraprofessionals.MethodsIn the program, 884 children attended a psychoeducation session and after that, 661 children (290 for ACF/KONO and 371 for G-TEP) benefited from all treatment sessions. PTSD was measured by the Children's Revised Impact of Event Scale (CRIES-8). General distress was measured by the Child Psychosocial Distress Screener (CPDS). Data were collected before and after treatment, and measured 5 months after the end of treatment for 185 children.ResultsParticipants in the ACF/KONO group show a significant reduction on CRIES-8 (t = 44.8; p &amp;lt; 0.001, effect size = 2.63) and CPDS (t = 38.2; p &amp;lt; 0.001, effect size = 2.24). Participants to the G-TEP protocol show a significant effect with reduced scores on the CRIES-8 (t = 49.2; p &amp;lt; 0.001, effect size = 2.55) and CPDS (t = 57.2; p &amp;lt; 0.001, effect size = 2.97). A Student's t-test comparing the ACF/KONO and G-TEP groups shows no significant difference between the two types of treatment between pre- and post-treatment CRIES-8 scores (t = 1.744; p = 0.514, effect size = 0.040) and CPDS scores (t = 1.688; p = 0.092, effect size = 0.323). An analysis of the follow-up data for the 185 children shows that the effects of both protocols are maintained over time with mean scores after treatment and follow-up below the clinical cut-off for both CPDS (&amp;lt;8) and CRIES-8 (&amp;lt;17).ConclusionsBoth protocols have been shown to be effective in reducing traumatic symptoms in children exposed to conflict; they can be conducted by paraprofessionals and used in humanitarian crisis situations.

A Scoping Review of Mental Health Needs and Challenges among Medical Students within South African Universities.

The mental health of medical students is a growing concern worldwide, with studies indicating high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression among this population. In a South African context, this review aims to review the existing literature on mental health needs and challenges among medical students in South Africa. The rationale for this review is crucial to identify gaps, understand unique contextual factors, and inform the development of targeted interventions and support tailored to the specific needs of South African medical students. This review followed a scoping review framework by Arksey and O'Malley which consists of five stages. The review was initiated in December 2023. The search process was conducted on the following electronic databases: PubMed, Psych-info, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Science Direct. The search terms of this review were "Medical students" OR "Mental health", OR "Challenges", OR "South Africa", OR "Universities" OR "Needs", OR "Support systems", OR "Mental health interventions". This study included articles published in English between 2010 and 2023. After a thorough review of the literature, only eight articles met the inclusion criteria. This study excluded articles that were not published in English, articles published before 2010, full-text articles that could not be retrieved, and studies that did not address the mental health needs and challenges faced by medical students and risk factors contributing to mental issues among South African medical students. The review yielded only three themes utilizing Creswell's Tesch method of data analysis. (1) Prevalence of mental health disorders, (2) risk factors contributing to poor mental health, and (3) available university support systems and interventions. Therefore, the unique aspect of our review lies in shedding light on the underexplored intersections between mental health and the unique context of medical education in South Africa. This includes examining the impact of historical, cultural, and institutional factors on the mental health and well-being of medical students, which has not been comprehensively addressed in previous literature in terms of the South African context. The findings of this review highlight the importance of implementing comprehensive mental health support programs within medical education institutions to address the needs of students and promote their well-being.