Mental Well-being Of Individuals Research Articles

The Psychological Boomerang: Investigating the Mental Health Impacts of Spreading Anti-LGBTQ+ Misinformation and Hate Speech Online

The increasing prevalence of hate speech in digital spaces has become a growing concern, particularly with the advancement of technological tools, with sexual minorities being a primary target of this growing phenomenon. While prior research has primarily focused on the psychological impact of hate speech on victims, the effects on those who spread such hate remain underexplored. This study aims to examine the relationship between actively spreading LGBTQ+-related misinformation and the mental health of message spreaders. To investigate this, Twitter user accounts that used the #superstraight hashtag, a meme popularized in February 2021 to express transphobic sentiments, were analyzed over a three-month period. Sentiment analysis of posts from 421 users, conducted before and after the period of spreading the messages, revealed a negative correlation between the dissemination of misinformation and users mental health. These findings suggest that the dissemination of hate speech is associated with a decline in the mental well-being of individuals who propagate such messages. This research highlights the harm of online hate on all and provides insights into combating hate speech.

Uncovering the effects and mechanisms of tea and its components on depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders: A comprehensive review

Depression, anxiety and sleep disorders are prevalent psychiatric conditions worldwide, significantly impacting the physical and mental well-being of individuals. The treatment of these conditions poses various challenges, including limited efficacy and potential side effects. Tea, a globally recognized healthful beverage, contains a variety of active compounds. Studies have shown that consuming tea or ingesting its certain active ingredients have a beneficial impact on the mental health issues mentioned above. While the effects of tea on physical health are well-documented, there remains a gap in our systematic understanding of its impact on mental health. This article offers a thorough overview of animal, clinical, and epidemiological studies examining tea and its components in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders, and summarizes the associated molecular mechanisms. The active ingredients in tea, including L-theanine, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), arginine, catechins, theaflavins, caffeine, theacrine, and several volatile compounds, may help improve depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. The underlying molecular mechanisms involve the regulation of neurotransmitters, including monoamines, GABA, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), as well as the suppression of oxidative stress and inflammation. Additionally, these ingredients may influence the microbiota-gut-brain (MGB) axis and the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. This review provides valuable insights into the effects and mechanisms by which tea and its components regulate depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders, laying the groundwork for further research into relevant mechanisms and the development of tea-based mental health products.

Assessment of the Quality of Life of Men with Premature Ejaculation

Sexual health is an integral part of the quality of life of every person, as it is of great importance for the physical and mental well-being of individuals, couples, families, and, accordingly, for the social and economic development of communities and countries. The objective: to assess the impact of premature ejaculation (PE) on the quality of life of men depending on the degree of clinical manifestations. Materials and methods. 89 men who had premature ejaculation were under observation. The average age of the patients was 32.6±4.2 years. The average duration of the disease was 4.6±2.4 years. 22 (24.7%) patients had secondary (acquired) premature ejaculation against the background of chronic prostatitis or prostatic vesiculitis. Other 67 (75.3%) men had a primary (congenital) form of premature ejaculation, which began with the beginning of sexual life. The premature ejaculation diagnostic tool (PEDT) was used to determine the severity of premature ejaculation. Quality of life was assessed on the basis of Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire – Short Form (Q-LES-Q-SF) (). Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used for screening detection of anxiety and depression. Study of medical and social characteristics based on the developed program was performed and the sensitivity of the penis was also assessed using biotensiometry. Results. It was established that men with premature ejaculation have a low satisfaction with life (76.4%), against the background of complete (55.1%) or partial (44.9%) dissatisfaction with their sexual life. Premature ejaculation has a negative impact on their daily life, as it leads to negative experiences (92.1%), reduced work capacity (41.6%), deterioration of relations with a wife or partner (48.3%), a feeling of exhaustion and fatigue (32.6%). When evaluating the results of the PEDT diagnostic test, according to the severity of the manifestations, men had a mild (50.5%), medium (31.5%) or severe (18%) degree. A clear correlation between the decline in men’s quality of life and the severity of premature ejaculation was noted (Spearman’s r = –0.938; p<0.01). The data of anxiety and depression scales indicated their high level, which also depended on the degree of severity of premature ejaculation manifestations (Spearman’s r = 0.790; p<0.01) and negatively affected the quality of life (Spearman’s r = –0.760; p<0,01). According to the data of biotensiometry, hypersensitivity of the head of the penis was noted in men with premature ejaculation, in comparison with the data in the control group of men who did not have sexual disorders: 4.2±1.6 W and 12.4±2.6 W respectively (p<0.05). More pronounced indicators of penile hypersensitivity were observed in men with severe PE with a statistically significant difference compared to the indicators in the group of men with mild manifestations of PE (p<0.05) and without a significant difference compared to the indicators in the group of men with average by the degree of PE (p>0.05). Somewhat more pronounced indicators of penile hypersensitivity were observed in men with PE under the age of 30. Conclusions. Premature ejaculation is characteristic of men of young working age, which is accompanied by a negative impact on various areas of their life, and the development of anxiety and depression, as well as a decrease in the quality of life. This requires improving the organization of providing medical and psychological assistance to such patients.

An Examination of Hate-Motivated Behavior Among Adults in Scotland and Associations with Risk Factors for Self-Directed Violence

Hate-motivated behavior (HMB) ranges from microaggressions to criminal acts and is a public health concern with consequences for the physical and mental well-being of individuals, families, and communities. The Hate-Motivated Behavior Checklist (HMBC) was developed with the goal of advancing the measurement of HMB perpetration. To provide insights into perpetration and victimization across the HMB continuum in Scotland, the present study sought to examine the factor structure of both the original HMBC and our adapted victimization version in a sample of adults currently living in Scotland. It also aimed to test associations between HMB and cognitions, which are related to self-directed violence (defeat and entrapment). Participants ( n = 447) completed an online cross-sectional survey assessing demographic factors, HMB (perpetration and victimization), and perceptions of defeat and entrapment. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to examine the factor structure of the HMBC and the adapted victimization version of this checklist and path analyses were implemented to provide insights into potential links between HMB, defeat, and entrapment. In line with previous work, results provided support for interpreting the HMB Checklist as a single-factor total score. This was also true for the victimization version of the checklist. Results indicated that HMB victimization (but not perpetration) was associated with increased perceptions of defeat and entrapment. These findings suggest that the HMBC (for assessing both perpetration and victimization) represents potentially useful tools for HMB research and supports their applicability outside of an American context. Furthermore, by examining HMB through the lens of a contemporary model of suicidal behavior, our findings also provide insights into potential psychological mechanisms linking interpersonal and self-directed violence. Future research should implement prospective research designs and integrate measures of self-directed violence outcomes alongside HMB, defeat, and entrapment, to further advance understanding of this association.

Air Pollution and Corporate Innovation: Does Top Management Quality Mediate and Government Talent Policy Moderate?

Air pollution not only poses significant threats to the physical and mental well-being of individuals, but it also has the potential to trigger a regional brain drain, thus inhibiting corporate innovation performance. This study explores the impact of air pollution on corporate innovation from the perspective of top management quality. We find that lower air quality significantly reduces the quality of corporate top management, thereby reducing their innovation output. However, local government talent attention alleviates the negative impact of air pollution on corporate innovation. Further analysis reveals that the local government’s environmental attention aggravates the negative effects of air pollution on corporate innovation. Finally, executive compensation alleviates the negative impact of air pollution on corporate innovation.

Sustaining mental health amidst high-pressure job scenarios: a narrative review

Today’s fast-paced world presents with increased work-related demands and pressures. These pressures may overwhelm an individual’s coping ability. From recognizing the signs of stress to implementing proactive measures for self-care, we embark on a journey to promote resilience and a healthy equilibrium between professional aspirations and mental well-being. Maintaining mental health and well-being is essential to living a healthy life even in high-pressure professional contexts. Nursing is one of the most challenging and demanding professions and use their psychological and emotional resources in service of their patients as well as navigating through the ups and downs of their own lives. Workplace stress has the potential to adversely impact both the physical and mental well-being of individuals, leading to a decline in job productivity through heightened stress levels. This leaves the professionals depleted and drained. Through this article, the author tries to highlight major stressors related to nursing and some practical coping measures.

Exploring stress management strategies among emergency medical service providers in Iran: a qualitative content analysis

BackgroundEmergency medical service providers are frequently exposed to a variety of stressors as a result of their work environment. These stressors can have detrimental effects on both the physical and mental well-being of individuals. This study was conducted with the aim of exploring stress management strategies in emergency medical service providers.MethodsThis study was conducted in 2023 using a qualitative approach and content analysis method. A purposive sampling method was used to include 16 emergency medical system providers from Hamadan city. Semi-structured interviews, with a duration of 45–60 min, were conducted for data collection. The Data were analyzed using Graneheim and Lundman’s conventional content analysis approach.ResultsThe analysis of the interview data revealed three themes: readiness for the worst conditions, assistance based on supportive partnerships, and striving for balance. The six categories within these three themes were mental preparation, risk management, collaborations in emergency response, supportive communication, adaptive behaviors, and maladaptive responses.ConclusionsThe results of this study shed light on the various stress management strategies employed by emergency medical service providers. Understanding and implementing effective stress management strategies can not only enhance the well-being of emergency medical service providers but also improve the quality of patient care. Further research and action are essential to promote the resilience and mental health of these professionals, ensuring their overall well-being and job satisfaction.

AIM AND MEANING OF BREATHING EXERCISES: INTERDISCIPLINARY LITERATURE REVIEW

Respiration is an indispensable aspect of life that significantly influences both the physical and mental well-being of individuals, depending on such factors as depth and rhythm. Exploring the distinctions between chest and abdominal breathing is crucial for understanding their profound impacts, and embracing appropriate breathing exercises has proven to be advantageous for short-term relief and long-term holistic health. While acknowledged for diverse therapeutic applications, such as mitigating vocal cord fatigue, a comprehensive exploration of breathing exercises remains essential. Sport scientists and coaches are encouraged to acquire a set of breathing exercises for future implementation in the training routines. This study strives to conduct an interdisciplinary literature review to shed light on the aims, meaning, and classification of breathing exercises. Employing a literature review methodology, were analysed peer-reviewed articles from PubMed and ScienceDirect published during the years from 2000 to 2023, focusing on such keywords as breathing exercises, deep breathing, nasal breathing, abdominal breathing, thoracic breathing, pursed-lip breathing, breathing control, and respiratory muscle training. The research findings illustrate the multifaceted definitions, components, aims, and classifications of breathing exercises. This study establishes a foundation for identifying distinct subtypes, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of the significance and purpose of breathing exercises in enhancing overall well-being.

The Impact of Coping Styles on the Mental Health of Outstanding Physical Education Students in Shanghai During the Normalization Epidemic: The Chain Mediation Role of Meaning in Life and Prosocial Behavior.

The continuous spread of the epidemic has inflicted serious harm upon individual's mental well-being, and effective coping mechanisms are associated with positive mental health outcomes. Prosocial behavior and a sense of meaning in life can enhance individuals' subjective well-being, which can subsequently positively impact their mental health. Thus, in the context of epidemic prevention and control, this study investigates the relationship between the meaning in life, prosocial behavior, and coping styles of outstanding physical education students and the impact on their mental health. The study involved a questionnaire survey on 498 outstanding physical education students, consisting of 297 boys (mean age = 13.16) and 201 girls (mean age = 12.87 years). Subsequently, the data was analyzed using the mediating effect and Bootstrap tests. The coping style positively predicted the meaning in life (β=0.294) and prosocial behavior (β=0.293). Conversely, mental health was predicted in a negative direction (β=-0.494). Mental health negatively predicted prosocial behavior (β=-0.810), although prosocial behavior positively predicted meaning in life (β=0.644). Finally, prosocial behavior negatively predicted mental health (β=-0.513). Additionally, the interplay between prosocial behavior and meaning in life is established in terms of both the individual and chain mediating roles. This study demonstrates that coping styles during a normalized epidemic prevention and control situation directly impact the mental health of Shanghai's outstanding physical education students. Additionally, these coping styles indirectly influence mental health through the mediating effects of meaning in life and prosocial behaviors. Furthermore, meaning in life and prosocial behaviors act as chain mediators in this relationship.

Potential antidepressant effects of Traditional Chinese botanical drug formula Chaihu-Shugan-San and its active ingredients.

Background: Depression is a severe mental disorder that poses a significant threat to both the physical and mental wellbeing of individuals. Currently, there are various methods for treating depression, including traditional Chinese herbal formulations like Chaihu-Shugan-San (CSS), which have shown effective antidepressant effects in both clinical and animal research. Objective: This review aims to provide a comprehensive synthesis of evidence related to CSS, considering both preclinical and clinical studies, to uncover its potential multi-level, multi-pathway, and multi-target mechanisms for treating depression and identify its active ingredients. Methods: A thorough search was conducted in electronic databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Google Scholar, CNKI, and Wanfang, using keywords such as "Chaihu Shugan" and "depression" to retrieve relevant literature on CSS and its active ingredients. The review process adhered to the PRISMA guidelines. Results: This review consolidates the mechanisms underlying antidepressant effects of CSS and its active ingredients. It emphasizes its involvement in the regulation of monoaminergic neurotransmitter systems, synaptic plasticity, and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, among other aspects. Conclusion: CSS exerts a pivotal role in treating depression through various pathways, including the monoaminergic neurotransmitter system, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, synaptic plasticity, inflammation, brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels, and the brain-gut axis. This review facilitates a comprehensive understanding of the current state of CSS research, fostering an in-depth exploration of the etiological mechanisms of depression and the potential discovery of novel antidepressant drugs.

Prevalence of psychiatric disorders in patients with craniofacial malformations - a statistical analysis

IntroductionCraniofacial malformations have long been associated with a heightened risk of psychiatric disorders. Understanding this link is crucial, as it can inform early intervention and support for affected individuals, enhancing their overall well-being. Research in this area aims to shed light on the prevalence and nature of these disorders within the craniofacial population, ultimately improving healthcare and quality of life for affected individuals.ObjectivesThis study aims to establish a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between craniofacial malformations and psychiatric disorders. Specifically, our objectives include: assessing prevalence, identifying risk factors, evaluating impact and informing clinical practice. This research aims to improve the holistic care and mental well-being of individuals with craniofacial malformations, contributing to a more comprehensive approach in the field of psychiatry.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted at a prominent referral hospital named Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre during the month of August 2023.Participant Selection: Patients with craniofacial malformations of all ages and both genders.Data Collection: We conducted structured interviews with participants to gather demographic information, medical history, and details of their craniofacial conditions.Medical Records Review: Medical records were reviewed to corroborate craniofacial diagnoses and identify any comorbid conditions.Statistical Analysis: Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical techniques to assess the association between craniofacial malformations and psychiatric disorders.Ethical Considerations: The study adhered to all ethical guidelines, with informed consent obtained from participants or their legal guardians. Ethical approval was obtained from the hospital’s Institutional Review Board.Data Handling: Confidentiality and data security were ensured throughout the study, with all data anonymized to protect participant privacy.ResultsIn our study, we assessed 132 different patients, comprising 62 females and 70 males. The youngest patient was 2 months old, while the oldest was 56 years old. The mean age of the patients was 16.22 years, with a median of 9 years, a harmonic mean of 18 years, and a standard deviation of 15.23 years.Among the patients, 24 exhibited psychiatric disorders, evenly split between 12 males and 12 females. Their average age was 16.21 years, with a median of 10 years, a harmonic mean of 6.13, and a standard deviation of 14.57. The youngest patient with evidence of a psychiatric disorder was 2 years old.Image:Image 2:ConclusionsOur study underscores the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among craniofacial patients, which seems to be greater than the general population, emphasizing the need for integrated care that considers both medical and psychological aspects, thus enhancing the overall well-being of these individuals.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Prevalence of psychiatric and cognitive disorders in patients with Pierre-Robin sequence - a statistical analysis

IntroductionThe Pierre-Robin sequence (PRS), characterized by micrognathia, glossoptosis, and cleft palate, has long been a subject of clinical interest. Recent research suggests a potential association between PRS and cognitive or psychiatric disorders. This study explores this intriguing connection, shedding light on the complex interplay between craniofacial anomalies and mental health.ObjectivesThis study aims to establish a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between Pierre-Robin Sequence and psychiatric disorders. Specifically, our objectives include: assessing prevalence, evaluating impact and informing clinical practice. This research aims to improve the holistic care and mental well-being of individuals with craniofacial malformations, contributing to a more comprehensive approach in the field of psychiatry.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted at a prominent referral hospital named Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, an international reference in Pierre-Robin Sequence, during the month of August 2023.Participant Selection: Patients with PRS. Inclusion criteria encompassed individuals of all ages and both genders.Data Collection: Trained medical personnel conducted structured interviews with participants to gather demographic information, medical history, and details of their craniofacial conditions.Medical Records Review: Medical records were reviewed to corroborate craniofacial diagnoses and identify any comorbid conditions.Statistical Analysis: Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical techniques to assess the association between PRS and psychiatric disorders.Ethical Considerations: The study adhered to all ethical guidelines, with informed consent obtained from participants or their legal guardians. Ethical approval was obtained from the hospital’s Institutional Review Board.Data Handling: Confidentiality and data security were ensured throughout the study, with all data anonymized to protect participant privacy.ResultsIn our study, we assessed 28 different patients with Pierre-Robin Sequence, comprising 13 females and 15 males. The youngest patient was 2 months old, while the oldest was 22 years old. The mean age of the patients was 4.75 years, with a median of 3 years and a standard deviation of 5.36 years.Among the patients, 6 exhibited psychiatric disorders, split between 4 males and 2 females. Their average age was 10 years, with a median of 9 years and a standard deviation of 4.2. The youngest patient with evidence of a psychiatric disorder was 5 years old.ConclusionsThis study underscores a concerning reality within the Pierre-Robin population, pointing to a high prevalence of psychiatric disorders. These findings highlight the urgent need for integrated care, emphasizing the importance of early psychiatric assessment and tailored interventions to enhance the overall well-being of individuals facing the challenges of PRS.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Understanding the Dynamic Relationship of Diabetes Distress and Glycemic Indicators in Foot Ulcer Patients: A Correlative Study.

Diabetes-related distress and glycemic indicators are the most common concerns for patients with diabetes mellitus and have a major impact on diabetic patients' lifestyle, mental well-being, and healthcare access. The principal aim of research in this field is to ascertain the correlation between distress associated with diabetes and glycemic indicators. this helps in developing interventions that can enhance the overall physical and mental well-being of individuals with diabetes. The objective is to assess the diabetes distress and glycemic indicators among patients with foot ulcers and to find the correlation between diabetes distress and glycemic parameters. A descriptive correlational study was conducted among 159 patients with foot ulcers who were admitted to the hospital by using a non-probability purposive sampling method. The severity of diabetes distress was evaluated utilizing the four-subscale Diabetes Distress Scale (DDS-17). Glycemic indicators are calculated through the assessment of random blood sugar, fasting blood sugar (FBS), and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c). The study revealed that most participants were above 60 years old and were male. Of the samples, 52% had moderate distress. All the subscales of diabetes distress are correlated to the overall DDS score. A negative correlation (r= -0.162, p < 0.041) was found between emotional burden and FBS which was statistically significant, whereas FBS is positively related to HbA1c (r=0.194, p=0.015). The significant correlation between DDS scores, the subscales of diabetes distress, and glycemic indicators highlights the criticality of incorporating diabetes distress management into comprehensive strategies for managing diabetes.Moreover, theresearch underscores the necessity of employing multidisciplinary strategies when attending to diabetic patients to prevent complications.

Mechanisms and Benefits of Equine Therapy for Enhancing Mental Health

The problem addressed in this research is the increasing recognition of the complexity of mental disorders, and previous studies have indicated the positive potential of Equine Therapy in addressing various mental conditions. Neurobiological and hormonal changes associated with participation in equine therapy, providing a scientific basis for the clinically observed positive effects. On the other hand, as awareness of the complexity of mental disorders and the challenges in their treatment increases, attention to therapy involving interactions with animals, especially horses, is growing. The aim of this research is to deepen the understanding of the mechanisms and benefits of Equine Therapy as an innovative and effective therapy in enhancing individual mental well-being, by detailing previous research results to contribute further to our understanding. The research methodology used in this study is a literature review, involving a critical examination and review of knowledge, ideas, or findings in academically-oriented literature. The results of the study on Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) have proven effective in addressing depression and anxiety in adolescents, as well as having the potential as a valuable addition to the treatment of PTSD in first responders and substance use disorders. Despite positive results in increasing self-confidence, social interaction, and well-being, limited public understanding poses a challenge to the recognition of this therapy. Further research is needed to strengthen empirical evidence and understand the positive impact of human-horse interaction in the context of animal-assisted therapy.

Psychological Issues of Disabilities and Existing Treatments

This study comprehensively examines and synthesizes the latest research findings on the mental well-being of individuals with disabilities. It delves into the psychological intricacies exhibited by this demographic, explores the factors that shape their mental health, and identifies the underlying causes that contribute to their unique challenges. Furthermore, this research goes beyond merely summarizing existing knowledge; it critically assesses the prevailing psychological treatment modalities available for individuals with disabilities. By comparing and contrasting these approaches, it sheds light on their limitations and provides valuable insights into how they can be improved. In addition to these insights, this study offers practical recommendations aimed at enhancing the overall mental health support for people with disabilities. By addressing the gaps in current treatments and highlighting areas for improvement, it aims to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for this underserved population.

Psychological well-being in Europe after the outbreak of war in Ukraine

The Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, has had devastating effects on the Ukrainian population and the global economy, environment, and political order. However, little is known about the psychological states surrounding the outbreak of war, particularly the mental well-being of individuals outside Ukraine. Here, we present a longitudinal experience-sampling study of a convenience sample from 17 European countries (total participants = 1,341, total assessments = 44,894, countries with >100 participants = 5) that allows us to track well-being levels across countries during the weeks surrounding the outbreak of war. Our data show a significant decline in well-being on the day of the Russian invasion. Recovery over the following weeks was associated with an individual’s personality but was not statistically significantly associated with their age, gender, subjective social status, and political orientation. In general, well-being was lower on days when the war was more salient on social media. Our results demonstrate the need to consider the psychological implications of the Russo-Ukrainian war next to its humanitarian, economic, and ecological consequences.

How work engagement and workaholism relate to individuals’ and their intimate partners’ mental well-being: a test of the spillover-crossover model among Indonesian dual-earner couples

This study investigated the relationship between work engagement, workaholism, and mental well-being of individuals and their intimate partners. This association was explored in the context of Indonesian dual-earner couples, using the Spillover-Crossover Model (SCM). The study examined how work-to-family spillover (i.e. work-to-family conflict and facilitation) and recovery experiences (i.e. psychological detachment, relaxation, mastery, and control) mediate these relationships. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 186 Indonesian dual-earner couples with preschool children. Structural equation modeling was used to test the hypothesized model and bootstrap method was conducted to evaluate the indirect relationships. As hypothesized, among male and female workers, work engagement was positively related to individual's mental well-being through work-to-family facilitation and recovery experiences. In contrast, workaholism was negatively related to individual's mental well-being through work-to-family conflict and recovery experiences excluding psychological detachment. Individual's mental well-being, in turn, was positively related to intimate partner's mental well-being. These findings suggested that work engagement and workaholism were related to intimate partner's mental well-being differently. These results further supported the SCM, suggesting that higher work engagement could increase workers' and their intimate partners' mental well-being through work-to-family facilitation and their recovery experiences, while workaholism acts oppositely.

A Conceptual Model of Forgiveness and Mental Health: A Philosophical Appraisal

This paper explores the nature of hate, forgiveness, and interconnectedness in human relationships. Hatred often arises from conflicts with personal expectations but can be transformed into forgiveness by adopting an impersonal, holistic perspective. Drawing on evolutionary theory, psychological insights, and Buddhist philosophy, the paper argues that forgiveness is essential for individual mental well-being and societal harmony. The Buddhist concept of “two arrows” illustrates that while pain is unavoidable, suffering stems from emotional reactions and can be mitigated. Embracing the interconnected nature of events allows individuals to transcend psychological suffering and cultivate compassion. Forgiveness, distinct from condoning or forgetting, is a profound process of healing and self-liberation with significant implications for mental and physical health. By integrating philosophical and psychological perspectives, the paper highlights forgiveness as a biological and psychological necessity, improving mental health, life satisfaction, and fostering both personal and communalistic harmony

Mental wellbeing and ethnic brokerage in friendship networks of adolescents in German secondary schools

ABSTRACT Inter-ethnic brokerage between friends, i.e. having friends with different ethnic backgrounds who are not friends with each other, is essential to social integration processes in multi-ethnic societies. This study examines the relation between inter-ethnic brokerage in adolescent friendship networks and individual mental wellbeing in the school context. Using data on friendship networks from a large-scale study of more than 2,700 seventh-graders in German secondary schools, I analyse the interplay between triadic brokerage structures and ethnicity, combining network analytical methods with linear regression techniques. The results show that brokerage in general is associated with lower mental wellbeing. This negative association is stronger for brokerage between friends with different ethnic backgrounds than for brokerage between friends with the same ethnic background. Furthermore, the negative association is not stronger for inter-ethnic brokerage, where the broker has the same ethnic background as one friend, than for inter-ethnic brokerage, where all actors belong to distinct ethnic groups. The results indicate no differences between ethnic majority and minority students. Though inter-ethnic brokerage is vital to bridge ethnic divides, this study highlights the psychological challenges inter-ethnic brokers may face. It emphasises the relevance of investigating brokerage in inter-ethnic friendships and going beyond dyadic perspectives on inter-ethnic contact.

Insights from China: understanding the impact of community resilience and government trust in psychological resilience and anxiety during COVID-19.

COVID-19 has the potential to greatly impact an individual mental well-being. However, an individual's psychological resilience, combined with support from their community and government disaster relief efforts can aid individuals in confronting crises with a positive mindset. The purpose of this study is to investigate how individuals, across three dimensions of individual resilience perception, community resilience perception, and government trust perception, mitigate individual anxiety during COVID-19. This study employed an online survey method that was not restricted by geographical location. Data collection took place from January 2022 to June 2022, and the valid questionnaires covered all 31 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities in China. The assessment of community resilience was conducted employing the Conjoint Community Resilience Assessment Measure-10 (CCRAM-10). Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was also used to examine the relationship between community resilience, government trust, individual psychological resilience, and anxiety. The SEM results reveal that individual psychological resilience is significantly negatively correlated with anxiety (b = -0.099, p < 0.001), while there is a significant positive correlation between community resilience perception (b = 0.403, p < 0.001) and government trust (b = 0.364, p < 0.001) with individual psychological resilience. Furthermore, government trust perception enhances psychological resilience, consequently reducing anxiety (b = -0.036, p < 0.001). The results also revealed that women and increasing age had a mitigating effect on individual anxiety during COVID-19. Individual's mental state is influenced on multiple dimensions during COVID-19. Not only can individual psychological resilience better cope with anxiety, but support at the community and government dimensions has a significant impact on individual psychology. These resources can enhance the resilience of both individuals and communities, helping them better cope with stress and difficulties.