Mental Health Support System Research Articles

Stress and Coping Mechanisms in South Korean High School Students: Academic Pressure, Social Expectations, and Mental Health Support

This paper examines the stress and coping mechanisms among high school students in South Korea, with a focus on academic pressure, social expectations, and mental health support systems. The highly competitive education system, coupled with significant expectations from teachers, parents, and society, creates an environment of intense stress for students. Additionally, the influence of social media and peer pressure exacerbates these stress levels. The paper explores both adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies employed by students to manage their stress. Adaptive strategies such as effective time management, seeking social support, engaging in physical activities, and practicing mindfulness are highlighted as beneficial, whereas maladaptive strategies like avoidance, substance abuse, and social withdrawal are identified as harmful. The effectiveness of various mental health support systems within schools, including counseling services, mental health education programs, peer support initiatives, and wellness activities, is assessed. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to support students’ mental health and academic success, involving educators, parents, policymakers, and mental health professionals.

The unseen strains: mental health battles of Indian journalists amid Covid-19-induced economic uncertainty

ABSTRACT Amidst dealing with the health hazards of working during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic, many Indian newspaper journalists lost jobs, faced abrupt salary cuts or were forced to go on unpaid leaves leading to mental health challenges that turned into traumatic experiences for some. Qualitative research method was employed to collect data, through semi-structured interviews where consenting participants recollected, narrated and described their traumatic experiences. The authors identified a cohort (n = 37) of Indian newspaper journalists using the purposive sampling method. The study uncovers the details of the emotional distress and traumatic experiences and noted the coping strategies that demonstrated the resilience of many Indian newspaper journalists in the face of a crisis. This study revealed how sudden pandemic-related layoffs, lack of communication and the ineffectiveness or absence of a collective representation body, like journalist unions, aggravated the mental health challenges for many newspaper journalists in India. Findings highlight how mental health challenges at workplaces can be mitigated with support and interventions by qualified mental health professionals, and other mental health support systems.

EXPLORING STAKEHOLDERS' PSYCHOSOCIAL PERSPECTIVES IN ADDRESSING MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES WITHIN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY: A CASE STUDY IN MATARAM, WEST NUSA TENGGARA

Abstract: This article presented a case study conducted in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, to explore stakeholders' psychosocial perspectives in addressing mental health issues within the local community. The study adopts a qualitative research approach, utilizing in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation as data collection methods. Purposive sampling was employed to select participants from the Health Department, Public Health Centers (Puskesmas), and the Social Department of Mataram, representing different stakeholders involved in psychosocial support roles. The data is analyzed descriptively using ATLAS.ti, a qualitative data analysis software. The findings highlight stakeholders' perspectives on their roles as psychosocial supporters, categorized into three prevention efforts: primary, secondary, and tertiary. Primary prevention involves coordination, disability assistance, information provision, and program management. Secondary prevention focuses on screening and assessment, providing recommendations, delivering care, supporting recovery, and patient evacuation. Tertiary prevention emphasizes family education on the recovery process and preventing relapse. The study underscores the importance of intersectoral coordination, collaboration, and a multi-sectoral approach to addressing mental health issues. This research contributes to understanding stakeholders' perspectives and experiences related to psychosocial support for mental health within the local community. The findings can inform the development of effective strategies and interventions to enhance mental health services and support systems in similar contexts. Keywords: Stakeholder; Psychosocial; Mental Health Issue

Метод интеллектуального анализа текстовой информации для психиатрической диагностики

The automated depression detection system is a progressive technique in terms of improving clinical diagnosis and early medical intervention in cases where depression can have the most serious consequences, including self-harm or suicide. An innovative method of automated detection of depression based on textual data of patients is proposed. The developed method includes modern technologies such as the architecture of the recurrent neural network LSTM and various methods of text vectorization. Experiments conducted on publicly available datasets have confirmed the high efficiency and accuracy of the proposed method compared to the approaches used today. A unique feature of the method is the use of textual characteristics, which ensures the safety of the data provided by patients and eliminates their distortion. This approach not only increases the reliability of the results, but also avoids potential distortion of information in the analysis process. The developed method of automatic assessment of depression has high accuracy and does not require the presence of a doctor, which significantly increases the effectiveness of the process of identifying and assessing the level of depression. This approach can become a promising direction in the development of automated mental health support systems, reducing reaction time and providing more prompt assistance. In the future, the research will include training the model on data in Russian and further tuning of methods, as well as expanding the use of GloVe vectorization to improve contextual understanding of textual data. These steps are aimed at creating a more adapted and effective system for detecting depression in various linguistic contexts.

Organizational change: Implications of directive change management

This article explores the implications of directive change management, characterized by top-down leadership and minimal employee involvement, on organizational dynamics, employee morale, and job security. This approach’s psychological and operational impacts are underscored, emphasizing the imperative of addressing employee perceptions and fostering trust. Strategies for rebuilding trust and enhancing morale post-directive change management are presented, including transparent communication, participative decision-making, and recognition of employee contributions. The significance of enhancing job security through clear policies, open dialogue, and robust mental health and well-being support systems is highlighted. Practices that encourage job dedication are introduced, emphasizing goal alignment, meaningful work design, and a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. Long-term strategies for cultivating a healthy workplace, such as establishing feedback mechanisms, investing in leadership development, and maintaining organizational adaptability, are also discussed. This brief article is an introductory resource for business leaders, managers, and change practitioners seeking to be better equipped with the necessary tools and strategies to navigate the post-implementation effects of directive change management. It is anticipated that this information can assist leaders and organizations in navigating the challenges of directive change management, promoting resilience, employee well-being, and sustainable organizational success.

A Youth-Led Congress on Children's Mental Health: Voices, Experiences, and Policy Implications

This report synthesizes the proceedings of a youth-led congress focused on the profound impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on children's mental health. The congress provided a platform for children to articulate their experiences, express concerns, and propose recommendations. The findings underscore the need for policymakers to heed the voices of children in shaping mental health policies and support systems.

Consequences of medical negligence and litigations on health care providers - A narrative review.

Medical professionals face high stress due to the type of work they do and the prolonged working hours. Frequent burnout results due to the challenging nature of their work. Added to the stress of work, malpractice lawsuits add to their burden. In India, most doctors work in compromised settings with poor infrastructure and manpower but are expected to follow the best practices. In court, they are judged with the Bolam and Bolitho tests being essential considerations. Several tragic incidents have been reported, including depression, anger issues, and even suicide deaths of healthcare professionals (HCPs) after accusations of negligence and subsequent inquiry. Such incidents demonstrate the multitude of challenges an HCP faces in day-to-day practice. It is crucial to find ways to tackle these problems and enhance the capacity of HCP to handle such demanding circumstances. Malpractice litigation can significantly impact the mental health of HCPs. It is common to experience emotional turmoil when faced with a lawsuit. Second victim syndrome (SVS) is a term used to describe a set of symptoms experienced by HCPs who make an error leading to injury to a patient. However, it also happens if he is traumatized by the consequences of violence during healthcare services or a lawsuit or defamation article in newspaper/social media. Following a litigation crisis in their career, many HCPs go through various stages of grief, including shock, denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. At times, death by suicide of the HCPs is well known. SVS is known to profoundly affect the personal, family, economic, professional (defensive practice), and social life of HCPs. HCPs should accept the allegations of negligence as an occupational hazard and prepare for the eventual litigation at least once in a lifetime by knowing about the medical laws, HCP's rights, becoming aware of the emotional turmoil of the lawsuit, preparing to cope with the lawsuit, and seeking help from colleagues and indemnity insurance. Frequent training of the HCPs is strongly recommended to know about the changing laws and also to undergo periodic professional competence enhancement to reduce the incidents of errors amounting to medical negligence. Medical and hospital administration should debrief after any incident and conduct internal investigations to identify systemic flaws and prevent future recurrence, resolve issues within their control at their level, and manage media (mainstream and social media) appropriately. If established, a reporting system with online and offline services will ease the internal administrative investigation process and take appropriate, timely actions. During the crisis, HCPs should have adequate and appropriate insurance or indemnity coverage and mental health support systems.

IJCM_344A: A Mixed-Methods Study On The Health Literacy Of School Teachers On The Mental Health Concerns, Coping Mechanisms, And Support Systems Of School- Age Adolescents In Puducherry India

Background: The major challenges in addressing the adolescents with MHDs are lack of early identification, suitable interventions and treatment gap. Teachers are in the front lines of providing care, as students spend the majority of their early adolescence in school, where they endure social challenges. Objective: The study investigated teachers’ mental health literacy and their capacity in assisting their students, in addition to current levels of knowledge, awareness, and comfort in addressing students’ mental health concerns. Methodology: A Mixed Methods study with an Explanatory Sequential Design was conducted, among Puducherry’s rural and urban schools using a validated questionnaire among students and in-depth interviews with teachers in instructional and further administrative roles, focus groups involving students and teachers separately to collect qualitative data. In SPSS 21, adjusted odds ratios (OR) for MHDs were computed using ordinal logistic regression. The qualitative data was analysed both deductively and inductively using NVivo 12. Results: One in ten demonstrated prosocial behaviours, while over half of them battled with peer, emotional, conduct, and hyperactivity issues. Thematic analysis linked MHDs primarily lack of domestic support, financial difficulties, close relationships, and bullying. Substance abuse and isolation were coping mechanisms, which had a negative effect on academic performance. Qualitatively, teachers reported feeling overburdened and stressed, because they lacked the comfort and knowledge to deal with students’ mental health. Though most teachers believe there is a clear need for better mental health care in schools, many demonstrated a strong interest in professional development in this area. Conclusion: Restructuring the school health program promptly, adding mental health education to school curricula and creating surveillance data on adolescents’ mental health are essential. We need school environments that are favourable of positive mental health because many MHD triggers happen there.

Adolescent Trauma and Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic in the School Context

This study examines the significant effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescent trauma and its subsequent consequences in the school setting. The pandemic has brought about a worldwide health emergency that goes beyond physical health, significantly impacting the mental and emotional well-being of teenagers. This demographic, which is already vulnerable to different types of psychological distress during a crucial period of growth, encountered intensified difficulties as a result of the disruptions caused by the pandemic. The study employs a mixed-method methodology, combining quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights gathered through interviews and focus groups that include students, teachers, and school counselors. The objective is to evaluate the prevalence of trauma-related concerns among adolescents during the pandemic and investigate how these concerns have become apparent in educational environments. Primary concerns include the consequences of extended school closures, the transition to remote learning, social seclusion, and the broader psychosocial pressures associated with the pandemic. The findings indicate a notable surge in the number of reports concerning anxiety, depression, and other symptoms associated with trauma among adolescents. The interruption of typical school schedules and the lack of a physical school setting have decreased academic involvement and drive. Moreover, the absence of face-to-face social engagement and participation in extracurricular activities has intensified sentiments of isolation and social detachment. The study emphasizes the crucial role of schools in offering assistance and resources to tackle these difficulties. It highlights the necessity of implementing trauma-informed educational strategies and mental health support systems in schools to address the increased emotional and psychological requirements of students. Furthermore, the study identifies successful tactics schools utilize to lessen the consequences of the pandemic, such as incorporating mental health education into the curriculum, offering virtual counseling services, and cultivating a supportive online community.

Application of artificial intelligence based on sensor networks in student mental health support system and crisis prediction

The psychological health problems of students are directly related to the stability and development of society. With the development of society and the fierce competition in education, students are facing increasing psychological pressure, leading to increasingly prominent mental health problems. This not only seriously affects students' lives and studies, but also has a negative impact on the entire society. This article develops a student mental health support system based on artificial intelligence and big data analysis, through research and analysis of artificial intelligence and big data analysis. Then, based on the needs of students' mental health support and crisis prediction, corresponding algorithms and models are designed to apply artificial intelligence and big data analysis to the students' mental health support system, and relevant experiments and tests are conducted. The research results indicate that through this system, students can receive personalized mental health support and guidance, and can predict the possibility of student mental health crises. This system has achieved significant results in providing students with mental health support and predicting crises.

Previous mental health care and help-seeking experiences: Perspectives from sexual and gender minority survivors of near-fatal suicide attempts.

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) populations face heightened risk of suicide compared to their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts, and a previous suicide attempt is among the strongest predictors of suicide mortality. Despite this increased risk, limited research has explored mental health help-seeking behavior and previous mental health care experiences of SGM individuals among the highest risk for suicide-individuals with a recent, near-fatal suicide attempt. This study presents thematic analysis results of interviews with 22 SGM individuals who reported at least one near-fatal suicide attempt in the past 18 months. Identified themes were (a) factors that affect help-seeking for SGM individuals with a recent, near-fatal suicide attempt, including previous mental health care experiences, support systems, and structural barriers and facilitators; (b) hospitalization is not a one-size fits all solution; and (c) recommendations for improving care for this population. Findings demonstrate that anti-SGM stigma may magnify existing barriers to mental health care across all socioecological levels. Notably, participants cited a fear of loss of autonomy from inpatient hospitalization and previous discriminatory experiences when seeking mental health care as hampering help-seeking. Given increased risk for suicide mortality, this patient population is a necessary stakeholder in suicide prevention and intervention development and policy discussions affecting mental health care. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Prevalence and factors associated with mental illness symptoms among school students post lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United Arab Emirates: A cross-sectional national study.

Limited data exists on the mental health of children in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This study aimed to fill this gap by examining the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and risk for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among school students in post-lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic. A sample of 3,745 school students participated, responding to standardized tests (Mood and Feeling Questionnaire-Child Self-Report, Screen for Child Anxiety Related Disorders-Child Version, and Children's Revised Impact of Event Scale-8). Findings showed that the risk for PTSD was the most prevalent (40.6%), followed by symptoms of anxiety (23.3%), and depression (17.1%). For gender differences, symptoms of the three conditions (depression, anxiety, and PTSD) were higher in female students (9.2%) compared to male peers (7.7%) (p = 0.09). Moreover, symptoms of depression and anxiety were found to be higher among late adolescents (p<0.05). Further analysis revealed that having medical problems was a positive predictor for anxiety (OR = 2.0, p<0.01) and risk for PTSD (OR = 1.3, p = 0.002); similarly, witnessing the death of a close family member due to COVID-19 (OR for depression, anxiety, and PTSD = 1.7, p<0.01) were positive predictors associated with PTDS, depression, and anxiety. The study concluded that post COVID-19 lockdown, symptoms of anxiety, depression, and risk for PTSD were found to be prevalent among school students in the UAE. Researchers put forward recommendations on the initiation of a national school mental health screening program, the provision of follow-up services for vulnerable students, and the integration of a mental health support system in the disaster preparedness plans.

Promoting mental health in esports.

There is growing recognition of the demands and health challenges experienced by esports athletes. The purpose of this perspective paper is to draw specific attention to the mental health of competitive gamers and spur on both future research and applied initiatives focussing on this important but under-addressed topic. We will briefly discuss the prevalence of mental health concerns, domain-specific stressors, and the need for comprehensive mental health support systems tailored to the esports context. It is our hope that, with this perspective paper, we can help set a new research agenda addressing mental health in esports.

User perceptions and experiences of an AI-driven conversational agent for mental health support.

The increasing prevalence of artificial intelligence (AI)-driven mental health conversational agents necessitates a comprehensive understanding of user engagement and user perceptions of this technology. This study aims to fill the existing knowledge gap by focusing on Wysa, a commercially available mobile conversational agent designed to provide personalized mental health support. A total of 159 user reviews posted between January, 2020 and March, 2024, on the Wysa app's Google Play page were collected. Thematic analysis was then used to perform open and inductive coding of the collected data. Seven major themes emerged from the user reviews: "a trusting environment promotes wellbeing", "ubiquitous access offers real-time support", "AI limitations detract from the user experience", "perceived effectiveness of Wysa", "desire for cohesive and predictable interactions", "humanness in AI is welcomed", and "the need for improvements in the user interface". These themes highlight both the benefits and limitations of the AI-driven mental health conversational agents. Users find that Wysa is effective in fostering a strong connection with its users, encouraging them to engage with the app and take positive steps towards emotional resilience and self-improvement. However, its AI needs several improvements to enhance user experience with the application. The findings contribute to the design and implementation of more effective, ethical, and user-aligned AI-driven mental health support systems.

Research on the Application Status and Enhancement Strategies of Mental Health Support System in Chinese Army

Research on the Application Status and Enhancement Strategies of Mental Health Support System in Chinese Army

“Concept of Mental Health Practices of Employees of a Brick Manufacturing Company in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. (Case study)”

In light of the increasing global recognition of workplace mental health, this study examines employees’ knowledge and perceptions of mental health practices within a brick manufacturing company in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Despite the growing adoption of mental health policies aimed at improving employee well-being, a gap persists between the implementation of these practices and employees’ understanding of them. This research employs a qualitative phenomenological approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews with 15 employees to explore their awareness, perceptions and experiences related to mental health policies. Findings reveal that while employees are generally aware of the existence of mental health policies, their knowledge of specific resources and services remains limited. Mixed perceptions of the effectiveness of these policies suggest that, although well-intentioned, their practical impact often falls short. Barriers such as stigma, insufficient awareness, and confidentiality concerns hinder the utilization of available mental health resources, whereas supportive management and visible resources act as facilitators. The study highlights critical areas for improvement, including the need for better communication, increased training and enhanced confidentiality measures. Recommendations include implementing awareness campaigns, providing comprehensive support services, and conducting regular workshops. Addressing these issues is essential for creating a more effective mental health support system within the company, thereby enhancing employee well-being and productivity.

Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis On The Gaps In Pharmacy Education System: A Prisma Compliant Study

Background:Pharmacy education is crucial in shaping the competencies and skills of future pharmacists. However, significant gaps in the current pharmacy education system have been reported globally. These gaps range from outdated curricula and insufficient clinical training to inadequate research opportunities and lack of mental health support for students. Identifying and evaluating these gaps is essential for improving the quality of pharmacy education. Objective:This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to identify and evaluate the gaps in the pharmacy education system worldwide. The study adheres to PRISMA guidelines to ensure transparency and reproducibility. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. Search terms included 'pharmacy education', 'curriculum gaps', 'clinical training in pharmacy', 'pharmacy education system', and 'mental health in pharmacy students'. The inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed articles focused on pharmacy education gaps, studies following PRISMA guidelines, and articles published in English between January 2000 and January 2024. Data were extracted using a standardized form, and the quality of included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. A meta-analysis was performed using random-effects models to account for heterogeneity. Results:Out of 2,500 studies identified, 200 met the inclusion criteria. Key findings include significant gaps in curriculum content, particularly in emerging fields such as personalized medicine, pharmacogenomics, and digital health. Inadequate clinical training and exposure to real-world scenarios were major concerns. Limited research opportunities for undergraduate students and insufficient mental health support systems were also identified. Conclusion:This systematic review and meta-analysis highlight critical areas in pharmacy education that require immediate attention. Updating curricula to include emerging fields, enhancing clinical training, encouraging undergraduate research, and implementing robust mental health support programs are essential steps to address these gaps. The findings and recommendations can guide policymakers, educators, and stakeholders in improving the quality of pharmacy education globally.

Research on the Causes and Countermeasures of the Current Situation of Chinese University Students' Mental Health

Through an in-depth study of the mental health problems of Chinese college students, its existence, manifestations and effects were analyzed. The study found that academic pressure, employment pressure and family factors are the main causes of mental health problems among Chinese college students. To solve these problems, three countermeasures are proposed: to carry out mental health education and publicity, to establish a mental health support system, and to provide psychological counselling and treatment services. Finally, the outlook of mental health problem solving among Chinese college students is examined, and future trends, challenges and development strategies are discussed. This study will provide useful reference for the solution of college students' mental health problems.

Mental Health Guidance and Support Bot

In an era characterized by the relentless pace of life and the escalating challenges to mental well-being, the emergence of the Mental Health Support Bot represents a revolutionary advancement in addressing the universal struggle with stress, anxiety, and depression. This abstract delves deeper into the conceptualization, methodology, results, and broader implications of this virtual companion, highlighting its transformative impact on the landscape of mental health support. The Mental Health Support Bot is rooted in the synergy of cutting-edge artificial intelligence and a profound understanding of the nuanced nature of mental health challenges. Its conceptualization arises from the recognition that these challenges are not confined to specific demographics but are pervasive, transcending geographical, cultural, and temporal boundaries. The bot is designed to be a dynamic and responsive virtual companion that tailors its approach to the unique needs of each individual user. Powered by advanced artificial intelligence, the Support Bot employs adaptive algorithms that continuously learn and evolve based on user interactions. The profound impact of the Mental Health Support Bot is reflected in its ability to transcend traditional limitations of mental health support systems. Its continuous accessibility, operating 24/7, ensures that users can seek assistance whenever the need arises, breaking down the temporal constraints of conventional models. Moreover, the bot's adaptability to users' schedules, whether during quiet moments in the night or amid the rush of a busy day, enhances the likelihood of individuals seeking timely assistance. The results signify a paradigm shift in mental health support, moving towards a more user-centric and proactive approach.

지역주민의 정신건강 지원체계 참여 경험에 관한 연구

The purpose of this study was to investigate in depth the experiences of residents who participation in the mental health support system and to explore plan for practical support. Two focus group interviews were conducted with residents participating in the ‘Ibagu Hair Salon project’ being conducted the Mental Health Welfare Center. Qualitative data analysis extracted three theme clusters and 9 sub-themes and the key findings include the following: 1) Motivation to participate in the mental health support system : ‘Customized Service Professional’; 2) Experience in participating in the mental health support system response : ‘Cuts, dyes, and perm’; and 3) Plans to expand the mental health support system : ‘New styling’ Based on findings, highlighted the importance of utilization of local residents with a high community attachment, building support plan and reinforcement of compensation for effective response. In addition to this, reexamined of the meaning of resident participation in the area of mental health.