Need For Psychological Support Research Articles

Latent profiles of emotion regulation among university students: links to repetitive negative thinking, internet addiction, and subjective wellbeing

Recent years have seen a deterioration in the mental health of university students and notable surge in the need for psychological support. Due to its links to psychopathology and high-risk behaviors, difficulty in emotion regulation frequently serves as a transdiagnostic dimension. This cross-sectional study used a person-centered analytical approach (latent profile analysis; LPA) to identify groups of Portuguese university students with similar profiles of emotion regulation difficulties (N = 261; Mage = 22.5 ± 1.2 years; n = 213 female) and describe how these groups differ in their presentation of repetitive negative thinking, internet addiction, and subjective wellbeing. The analyses identified four latent profiles: 14.5% of students showed global dysregulation (the Low Emotion Regulation Profile), 23% were moderately dysregulated with elevated problems in goal-directed behavior (the Moderate Emotion Regulation Profile), 8% showed specific difficulties with low emotional awareness and clarity (the Low Insight Profile), and 54.4% showed adaptive emotion regulation (the High Emotion Regulation Profile). As anticipated, the Low Emotion Regulation Profile had the lowest subjective wellbeing and the highest prevalence of repetitive negative thinking and internet addiction. Students with a Low Insight Profile also showed low subjective wellbeing, but less repetitive negative thinking compared to the Low Emotion Regulation Profile. Our findings suggest that interventions aimed at improving health and wellbeing among university students should consider each student’s unique set of emotion regulation difficulties, rather than focusing on particular strategies. Further research may help determine whether emotion regulation profiles can serve as predictive indicators of varying mental health trajectories and subjective wellbeing in university students.

Factors Influencing Optimal Bracing Compliance in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Single Center Prospective Cohort Study.

Retrospective cohort study. To identify factors contributing to optimal bracing compliance in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Poor brace compliance is a key factor affecting brace treatment success in AIS. Predictive factors influencing optimal brace compliance to achieve brace treatment success remain unknown. This study included AIS patients, aged 10-15, with a Cobb angle of 20-40 degrees. Demographics data, radiographic assessments, and patient-reported outcomes (including the SRS-22r patient questionnaire) were collected. Brace compliance was monitored using in-brace thermometers, defining optimal bracing time as more than 18 hours/day. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to identify predictors of optimal bracing time from the demographic and patient- reported outcomes score before bracing. Among 122 patients, 59.0% achieved optimal bracing time by six months. The achieved group indicated higher scores in satisfaction domain before bracing (3.3±0.7 vs. 3.1±0.6; P=0.034). Multivariable logistic regression analysis demonstrated that Satisfaction domain before bracing was an independent factor associated with achievement of the optimal bracing time (OR 1.97 [95%CI 1.00 - 3.89], P=0.049). The model with bracing at 1-month follow-up also demonstrated the bracing at 1-month was a significant factor (OR 1.52 [95%CI 1.30 - 1.79], P<0.001). Optimal bracing compliance in AIS is significantly influenced by pre-bracing satisfaction and brace compliance at earlier time point. These findings highlight the need to address psychological factors and early compliance in AIS bracing treatment. SRS-22r can be useful to identify the need for psychological support.

Spiritual Health and COVID-Related Anxiety Among Adolescents with and Without Chronic Disease

Background: Spiritual health has been linked to the mental health of adolescents. Yet, the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the spiritual health of adolescents with chronic diseases, as opposed to the mental health of their healthy counterparts in Iran, has not been explored. Objectives: The aim of this study was to examine the association between spiritual health and COVID-19-induced anxiety among adolescents, both with and without chronic diseases. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study involved 85 adolescents with chronic diseases (selected through convenience sampling) and 80 adolescents without chronic diseases (selected through cluster random sampling) in Tehran, Iran. The Spiritual Well-Being Scale (SWBS) and the Corona Disease Anxiety Scale (CDAS) were utilized for data collection. Results: The findings indicated that anxiety levels related to COVID-19 were significantly higher among adolescents with chronic diseases compared to their healthy peers (P = 0.001). Additionally, spiritual well-being was significantly lower in adolescents with chronic diseases than in healthy adolescents (P = 0.001). Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic appears to be linked to psychological and spiritual vulnerabilities in adolescents with chronic diseases, suggesting a need for psychological support and special consideration for these individuals.

Perioperative psychological distress in patients with intracranial tumors; a single center study.

Distress Thermometer (DT) was adopted to evaluate distress in neuro-oncology on a scale from 1 to 10. DT values above 4 indicate major distress and should initiate psycho(onco)logical co-therapy. However, data about peri-operative distress is scarce. Hence, we evaluated peri-operative distress levels in a neurosurgical patient cohort with various intracranial tumors using the DT. We conducted a retrospective study including inpatients with brain tumors who underwent surgery in our department between October 2015 and December 2019. Patients were routinely assessed for distress using the DT before or after initial surgery. A comparative analysis was performed via Wilcoxon rank-sum test. 254 patients were eligible. Mean DT value of the entire cohort was 5.4 ± 2.4. 44.5% (n = 114) of all patients exceeded DT values of ≥ 6. In our cohort, poor post-operative neurological performance and occurrence of motor deficits were significantly associated with major distress. When analysed for peri-operative changes, DT values significantly declined within the male sub-cohort (6.0 to 4.6, p = 0.0033) after surgery but remained high for the entire cohort (5.7 and 5.3, p = 0.1407). Sub-cohort analysis for other clinical factors revealed no further significant changes in peri-operative distress. Distress levels were high across the entire cohort which indicated a high need for psychological support. Motor deficits and poor post-operative neurological performance were significantly associated with DT values above 6. Distress levels showed little peri-operative variation.

Nurses’ Perceptions of the Factors Which Cause Violence and Ways of Preventions in the Emergency Department: A Qualitative Study

Background: Violence has been increasing worldwide. The prevalence of violence in the healthcare sector is continuously rising, and the most vulnerable places for violence is emergency departments due to the critical nature of the workplace environment. Aims: To explore the factors that contribute to violence experienced by nurses, the impact of workplace violence on nurses, and the preventive methods. understanding these issues could enhance the workplace environment and quality of healthcare. Method: A qualitative approach was used with purposive sampling of 15 emergency department nurses at hospitals in Palestine who experienced or witnessed workplace violence. Semi-structured, face-to-face individual interviews were conducted to gain in-depth information about nurses’ experience in relation to workplace violence at emergency departments. All the interviews were transcribed verbatim for thematic analysis. Results: Three major themes were found to present the factors that contribute to violence experienced by nurses. These themes are: Knowledge and attitude related-issues, External-related factors and System-related issues. Four major themes emerged relating to the staff feelings, which are: Feeling overwhelmed, feeling distressed, feeling indignity and feeling helpless and fearful. Study participants offered some prevention methods to decrease workplace violence, and some suggestions to handle violence. Conclusion: Numerous factors contribute to the prevalence of workplace violence in emergency departments. Hospital administrations have to ensure the safety of all employees by using suitable precautions. There is an extensive need for psychological support after violent. In addition, universities have to develop communication, violence and stress management-training courses.

Healthcare professionals' views on psychological support for children and families affected by skin conditions in the UK: A qualitative study

AbstractBackgroundSkin conditions can have a psychological impact on a child and their caregivers, however, support is not equally distributed between geographical regions in the United Kingdom (UK).ObjectivesThis study aimed to investigate the experience of National Health Service (NHS) healthcare professionals (HCPs) of addressing the psychological needs of children with skin conditions and their families, and gain expert opinion as to how services need to further develop.DesignHCPs were recruited to a qualitative study with an advert posted on social media.MethodsFifteen HCPs took part in interviews, including dermatologists (n = 4), dermatology nurse consultants/specialists (n = 4), clinical psychologists (n = 4), liaison psychiatrists (n = 2), and a children's psychological well‐being practitioner (n = 1).ResultsThematic analysis revealed children often presented with anxiety, depression, self‐harm and suicidal ideation. The impact on caregivers was equally profound. There were differences in service provision across the UK and all HCPs recognised the urgent need for psychological support to be integrated into standard care. Participants described how a range of interventions are typically required including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and systemic approaches, as well as mindfulness/third‐wave approaches. Barriers to the delivery of psychological services were associated with a lack of funding and training opportunities for core and specialist staff alike. However, in some instances, participants had overcome these challenges to be able to deliver unique services.ConclusionsThere exist several barriers to providing paediatric psychological interventions, and many locations across the UK remain vulnerable as a result of continuing lack of national guidelines for the provision of psychological services.

Psychological support for individuals with differences of sex development (DSD)

ObjectiveCongenital conditions with atypical development of chromosomal, gonadal, or anatomic sex characteristics are referred to as Differences of Sex Development (DSD). Psychosocial care is recommended to be an integral part of clinical management for individuals with DSD. Few studies have examined the perceived need for, utilization of and the opinions of individuals with DSD regarding psychological support. MethodsThis cross-sectional study was part of a European multicentre study in 14 different medical centres in six countries. In total, 1040 individuals with DSD participated in a patient-reported outcome questionnaire asking about experiences and opinions regarding psychological support in DSD care. ResultsA majority of the participants reported that they had not received psychological support, in childhood and/or adolescence (70.6%, n = 692) nor in adulthood (67.9%, n = 661). Need for psychological support in childhood and/or adolescence was reported by 51.3% (n = 503), need for psychological support in adulthood, was reported by 49.5% (n = 482). The majority (80.2%; n = 718) agreed with the statement that people with DSD should always be offered psychological support. According to 78.7% (n = 697) of the participants, parents of children with DSD should always be offered psychological support. ConclusionOur findings support the existing consensus that psychological support should be an integral part of DSD care. The discrepancy between received and perceived need for psychological support suggests that individuals with DSD experience barriers to access mental health care services. Psychosocial and psychological services for children, adolescents and adults should therefore be available and offered throughout the lifespan to individuals with DSD.

Preterm premature rupture of the membranes (PPROM): a study of patient experiences and support needs

ABSTRACT Background Preterm prelabour rupture of membranes (PPROM) is a common obstetric condition but outcomes can vary depending on gestation. Significant maternal and foetal complications occur including preterm birth, infection, abruption, cord prolapse, pulmonary hypoplasia and even death. Although the need for psychological support is recognised it is unclear how much is actually offered to women and their families. This study aimed to survey the views of women and their families who have undergone PPROM in order to understand the care and psychological burden these families face. Methods An online survey was conducted, recruiting women via social media with collaboration from the patient advocacy support group Little Heartbeats. Responses were collated where fields were binary or mean and standard deviations calculated. Framework analysis was used to identify and analyse themes in free text responses. Results 180PPROM pregnancies were described from 177 respondents. Although carewas variable and respondents were from across the world there werecommon themes. Five themes were highlighted which were: a lack ofbalanced information regarding the condition, support in decisionmaking and support with the process, specific psychological supportand ongoing psychological consequences of PPROM. Conclusion This survey highlights areas in which care needs to be improved for women with PPROM. Previous studies have shown that providing good care during the antenatal period reduces long-term psychological morbidity for the whole family. The need for support, with regard both to information provided to women and their families and their psychological support needs to be addressed urgently.

Psychological Distress Affects Performance during Exercise-Based Cardiac Rehabilitation.

It is known that psychosocial distress affects the morbidity and mortality of patients with cardiovascular disease of every age. The aim of this study was to produce novel information on how psychological distress can influence cardiovascular performance in patients after cardiac surgery undergoing multidisciplinary cardiac rehabilitation. Patients (n = 57) admitted after cardiac surgery for valvular or coronary disease underwent, within 5 days of admission, the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R) self-report questionnaire to measure psychiatric symptoms and the 12-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) to assess the level of psychological distress. The Positive Symptom Distress Index (PSDI) was measured to indicate the amplitude of symptom distress. Cardiovascular performance was assessed by a 6 min walking test (6MWT) at admission and discharge, and oxygen consumption (VO2 max) was derived. Within the SCL-90-R score, somatic symptoms (47.4%), depressive and anxiety symptoms (36.8% and 33.3%, respectively), symptoms of phobic anxiety (21.1%), and psychoticism (24.6%) were over-represented. As for the GHQ-12, 75.4% of the sample reported an abnormally negative perception of their health status. An inverse correlation was shown between the variation in 6MWT and SCL depression (p = 0.048), PSDI (p = 0.022), and the GHQ-12 (p = 0.040). Similarly, an inverse correlation was shown between the variation in the VO2 max, GHQ-12 (p = 0.041), and the PSDI (p = 0.023). Post-cardiac surgery cardiac rehabilitation was associated with increased symptoms of psychological discomfort, as compared with the general population. The amplitude of psychological distress, depression, and hostility are associated with limited improvement in performance. These data strengthen the need for psychological support during cardiac rehabilitation programs.

Travelling Memories: Revisiting the Past in Larry Heinemann’s Black Virgin Mountain

The Vietnam War was a period of immense upheaval and trauma for American troops. In recognition of the urgent need for psychological support and care for veterans, a therapy culture and narratives of healing began to take shape, acknowledging the psychological potential of revisiting sites of trauma. While there are numerous cases of war veterans returning to Vietnam in search of closure, very few studies have delved into the specific ways in which mobility and movement influence the reconstruction of war memories and their impact on veterans’ healing. This paper aims to examine how the physical act of returning to a place of trauma can be a powerful form of remembrance and healing, potentially leading to a greater understanding of the complex and interconnected nature of trauma and memory. Through a close reading of Larry Heinemann’s memoir Black Virgin Mountain: A Return to Vietnam (2005), this paper seeks to uncover the power and potential of physical movement to manifest and process traumatic memories, and the potential risks involved. Understanding how war memories continue to manifest long after the war has ended is crucial for understanding the healing process and the urgent needs of veterans. It highlights the significance of mobility and movement as active vehicles of remembrance, allowing veterans to navigate the traumas of the past and find closure.

The Impact of Qualification and Hospice Education on Staff Attitudes during Palliative Care in Pediatric Oncology Wards-A National Survey.

Our knowledge about the attitudes of healthcare staff to palliative care in pediatric oncology is scarce. We aimed to assess their perceptions of palliative care in Hungary and find answers to the question of how to provide good palliative care for children. Physicians (n = 30) and nurses (n = 43) working in the field of pediatric oncology (12 of them specialized in hospice care) were interviewed. Palliative care practice (communication, integration of palliative care, professionals' feelings and attitudes, and opportunities for improvement) was assessed by semi-structured interviews evaluated in a mixed quantitative and qualitative way by narrative categorical content analysis and thematic analysis. All providers displayed high negative emotions, positive evaluations, and used many active verbs. Nurses showed higher levels of denial, more self-references, and were more likely to highlight loss. Physicians emphasized the importance of communication regarding adequate or inadequate palliative care. Hospice specialists showed a higher passive verb rate, a lower self-reference, a lower need for psychological support, and a greater emphasis on teamwork and professional aspects. Our results show that nurses are more emotionally stressed than doctors in palliative care in pediatric oncology. To our knowledge, a study comparing doctors and nurses in this field has yet to be carried out. Our results suggest that pediatric oncological staff can positively evaluate a child's palliative care despite the emotional strain. Regarding hospices, professional practice in palliative care may be a protective factor in reducing emotional distress and achieving professional well-being.

Comparison of dolutegravir- and efavirenz on depression, anxiety and sleep disorders in pregnant and postpartum women living with HIV; a DolPHIN2 substudy.

Both dolutegravir and efavirenz are known to be effective in pregnancy and post-partum to prevent vertical transmission of HIV and to maintain maternal health. Both drugs have also been associated with neuropsychiatric symptoms. To what extent these symptoms occur in pregnant and post-partum women, however, is not yet known. This was a secondary analysis of the DolPHIN2 study, a multicenter randomized trial among women presenting late in pregnancy with untreated HIV- who received either a dolutegravir- or efavirenz- containing regimen. Longitudinal measures of depression, anxiety and sleep quality were analyzed during pregnancy and up to 48 weeks post-partum. Among 268 women median (IQR) Edinburgh Post Natal depression score (EPDS) scores were 8 (3-11) and highest at enrolment. In the dolutegravir -and efavirenz arm, respectively, 23.7% and 25.6% had an EPDS score above 9, indicating possible or probable depression. Abnormal Hospital Anxiety Depression scores (HADS) (above 11) were seen at least once during follow up in 42 of patients (15.7%), although no differences were seen between treatment arms. No association was found between EPDS, suicidality and HADS scores and the assigned regimen (p = 0.93, 0.97 and 0.18 respectively). Median (IQR) Pittsburgh Sleep Quality index (PSQI) scores for dolutegravir- and efavirenz were 6 (5-7) and 5 (5-6.5) respectively, p = 0.70. No statistically significant differences were observed between efavirenz- or dolutegravir containing regimens. Rates of depression were high, but decreased over the course of time and confirm the need for psychological support after initial HIV diagnosis in pregnancy.

‘I just want to go home, is what I need’ – Voices of Ukrainian refugee children living in Estonia after fleeing the war

This study explores the experiences of Ukrainian refugee children in Estonia following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 with a focus on their daily functioning, challenges, and resilience. Three main themes emerged from interviews carried out from October through December 2022 with 11 refugee children aged 10 to 16. First, the adaptation process was related to various challenges including living environment, language, participation in two different types of schooling, and homesickness. Children highlighted their struggles with socialisation and a fear of rejection. Second, the schooling experiences of these children unfolded in two phases: initially, they engaged in passive observation and limited interaction with Estonian classmates, after which active participation enabled them to express optimism but also fear of not meeting language proficiency requirements. Third, the children emphasised a strong need for psychological support to address trauma and stress resulting from the war and displacement. They outlined the importance of family, peer support, engagement in leisure activities, and a connection to nature in facilitating their adaptation. The findings underline the significance of tailored support services, language acquisition programmes, mental health services, and culturally sensitive interventions for Ukrainian refugee children in Estonia. The implications include reforms in education, integration, and long-term monitoring to facilitate the well-being and successful integration into the new environment of this group.

A study on behavior, diet patterns and physical activity among selected GDM and non-GDM women in south India

Abstract Aim: Our aim is to study the behavior, diet, and physical activity patterns among gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and non-GDM women. Materials and Methods: A survey was conducted among GDM and non-GDM women from multispeciality hospitals and maternal clinics using a purposive sampling criterion. A validated interview schedule was used to obtain details of readiness for pregnancy, perception of managing pregnancy, concerns in pregnancy, degree of depression, food preferences, shopping of food, eating out, cooking, current nutrient intake, food consumption pattern, type, duration and frequency of physical activity, and rest periods of GDM and non-GDM women. Results: Majority of GDM and non-GDM women showed readiness for motherhood. GDM women exhibited greater confidence and importance toward making lifestyle changes during pregnancy. The pregnancy-related concerns were more common among GDM women. The mean energy and protein intake was lower than the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) among GDM women compared to their counterparts. On the contrary, carbohydrate consumption exceeded RDA among both groups. The total fat intake, including visible and invisible fat among GDM women, met the RDA; however, it exceeded the RDA among non-GDM women. The RDA for calcium, iron, and fiber showed significant difference compared to RDA among both groups. Physical activity patterns did not show any significant difference among GDM and non-GDM women and were unsatisfactory in both groups. Conclusion: The study recommends the need for psychological support, proper medical nutrition therapy, and adequate physical activity for GDM and non-GDM women.

The activity of the speech therapist at the time of COVID 19: survey of the Campania region

Our government has enacted restrictive and isolation measures, also in the field of rehabilitation, to combat and contain the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. These have had a major impact on the working methods and activities performed by the Speech Therapist. The Board of Speech Therapists of the Interprovincial Order of NA-AV-BN-CE conducted an anonymous survey to observe the phenomenon. The study aimed to assess how and to what extent the health measures in place influenced occupational activities and work-related discomfort. A questionnaire was structured to investigate, anonymously, different areas of professional interest (how therapeutic activities are carried out, work-related stress management, changes in human relations, specific needs), disseminated via the web thanks to the Google platform, and available from 15/06/2020 to 15/11/2022 for all speech therapists belonging to the interprovincial order of NA-AV-BN-CE. 161 Speech Therapists, aged between 21 and 40 years (73.9 per cent), took part in the survey. They worked mainly in a combined telerehabilitation and outpatient setting (64.12 per cent), and were provided with appropriate PPE for the treatment (65.8 per cent). Speech and language therapists reported a low to medium level of frustration (63.9%) and work-related stress (63.4%) for telerehabilitation treatment, to a high level for outpatient or home treatment (69.6%). Medium to high values (81.4%) of anxiety, worry and work-related distress are reported, favoured by social isolation and a perception of less support among colleagues, with a perceived need for psychological support from specialised figures to manage the emotional burden. The results suggest a medium to high level of work-related discomfort during the pandemic period, mainly for speech therapists who performed outpatient/domiciliary activities, entailing the risk of developing psychological distress. Further research should be undertaken, with multicentre and larger sample size studies, to define the relationships between the working methods promoted, work-related stress and the need to manage it.

NCOG-32. THE SPECIFIC PSYCHOSOCIAL BURDEN OF CAREGIVERS OF ADULT NEURO-ONCOLOGICAL PATIENTS - A PROSPECTIVE STUDY

Abstract OBJECTIVE The diagnosis of a brain tumor represents high burden for the patients’ caregivers (CG). Psychosocial screening tools adapted to the burden profile of CG are urgently required but do not exist. The aim was to develop a problem list for neuro-oncological CGs’ unmet needs for an application in combination to the Distress Thermometer scale. METHODS CG were prospectively assessed regarding changes in everyday life, relationship, social life, emotional, physical problems, and support needs, either via questionnaire (Center A) or by a qualitative interview (center B). A qualitative content analysis was performed by an inductive/deductive approach using MAXQDA® software. RESULTS A total of 50 caregivers were assessed (25 in center A via questionnaire, 25 in center B via interviews) during outpatient visits. Most frequently reported need was the need for psychological support (29/50, 58%). This was true after initial diagnosis (26/50, 52%) as well as in case of clinical deterioration of their loved-one (30/50, 60%). The results leaded to problem categories, congruent to the NCCN distress thermometer categories for cancer patients (practical, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual/existential problems). We detected new topics including “constraints/organization of (medical) appointments” (25/50, 50%) or “constant availability required for partner” (21/50, 42%). Also, 70% (35/50) put their own interests last or adapted their leisure activities. In the qualitative interviews (Center B), further items were identified, e.g., “dealing with psychological problems of the patient” (3/25, 12%), “different coping strategies among patient/caregiver” (4/25, 16%). We defined additional problem categories specifically adapted to CG of neurooncological patients, e.g., “problems due to neurocognitive/neuropsychological symptoms of the loved-one” and “problems with role as a caregiver”. CONCLUSION The interviews reflected the unmet needs of brain tumor caregivers. Our problem list developed for CG of neurooncological patients might allow for the targeted assessment and optimization of care.

The association of anxiety disorders and depression with facial scarring: population-based, data linkage, matched cohort analysis of 358 158 patients.

Estimates suggest that 1 in 100 people in the UK live with facial scarring. Despite this incidence, psychological support is limited. The aim of this study was to strengthen the case for improving such support by determining the incidence and risk factors for anxiety and depression disorders in patients with facial scarring. A matched cohort study was performed. Patients were identified via secondary care data sources, using clinical codes for conditions resulting in facial scarring. A diagnosis of anxiety or depression was determined by linkage with the patient's primary care general practice data. Incidence was calculated per 1000 person-years at risk (PYAR). Logistic regression was used to determine risk factors. Between 2009 and 2018, 179 079 patients met the study criteria and were identified as having a facial scar, and matched to 179 079 controls. The incidence of anxiety in the facial scarring group was 10.05 per 1000 PYAR compared with 7.48 per 1000 PYAR for controls. The incidence of depression in the facial scarring group was 16.28 per 1000 PYAR compared with 9.56 per 1000 PYAR for controls. Age at the time of scarring, previous history of anxiety or depression, female gender, socioeconomic status and classification of scarring increased the risk of both anxiety disorders and depression. There is a high burden of anxiety disorders and depression in this patient group. Risk of these mental health disorders is very much determined by factors apparent at the time of injury, supporting the need for psychological support.

Being a woman or being a youth: what matters for young adults with chronic diseases?

Abstract Background as the prevalence of chronic diseases increases with age, most interventions focus on ‘adults’ and neglect the growing proportion of chronically ill young people aged 15-24. Although they are no longer children, they are still in a period of transition towards autonomy and independence, particularly in industrialised countries. Moreover, health care for chronic patients is criticised for neglecting gender-specific needs. This exploratory collaborative study identified needs and preferences of youths living with a chronic disease with a gender lens. Methods we conducted 24 semi-directive interviews: 12 university students living with rare or chronic diseases; 12 health care professionals (doctors, nurses and allied health professionals). We conducted a group interview with an interdisciplinary staff in hospital and a group interview in an integrated primary care centre in 2022 in Brussels, Belgium. Alongside thematic analysis of the content of the interviews, we used the group analysis method with youths and professionals to co-construct recommendations: data were analysed and discussed in several collaborative meetings. Results youths insisted that professionals should listen more to youths and be more flexible. Youths stressed the need for psychological support currently absent, support regarding educational trajectory and warm environment of care similar to paediatric settings. Professionals expressed their concerns about being more gender-friendly and their lack of training regarding gender issues and other non-medical aspects of chronic diseases. Both youths and professionals consider gender-specific needs in a larger frame of patient-centred care focusing on the integration of patient preferences in a co-constructed dialogue. Conclusions to be youth-friendly, health services should better embrace the personalised health care planning, allowing for a better inclusion of what really matters for youths, be their age or their gender. Key messages • Personnalised health care planning supports gender-friendly health services. • Personnalised health care planning supports youth-friendly health services.

[The impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the mental health of critical care workers].

The coronavirus pandemic has focused attention on the importance of critical care and highlighted the shortage of critical care specialists. Due to increasing workloads and high mortality rates, healthcare professionals were exposed to higher levels of physical and psychological stress during the pandemic than before. Our study investigated the effects of the coronavirus outbreak on the emotional, mental and moral stress of intensive care professionals. Our workgroup performed paper-based surveys among caregivers in the Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Therapy at Semmelweis University. The first survey was conducted at the start of the pandemic in 2020, the second survey was conducted after the third wave in 2021. We applied validated questionnaires (Professional Quality of Life, Demoralization Scale, Perceived Stress Scale, Impact of Event Scale, and Posttraumatic Growth Inventory), collected demographic data and information on lifestyle, recreation, dietary habits, and accepting psychological support. The number and demographic characteristics of the participants in the two studies are different, reflecting the changes in the workforce during the pandemic. Our results revealed no differences between the working and socio-demographic groups before the outbreak, however, one year later, nurses scored significantly higher on all negative psychological scales compared to other groups. Only a minority of the respondents had sought psychological support (9.5-12.7%), although more than a third of respondents reported the need for psychological support. Employees in new work positions showed significantly increased posttraumatic growth (2.91 ± 0.82 vs. 2.20 ± 1.06, p = 0.016). These findings demonstrate that nurses are the most strained workgroup during an uncertain and stressful period. The available mental support alone is not enough to help caregivers. Further steps are needed to improve the mental health of critical care workers. Orv Hetil. 2023; 164(42): 1646-1655.

Vietnamese Social Workers’ Work-Related Difficulties and Perceived Need for Psychological Support during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Vietnamese Social Workers’ Work-Related Difficulties and Perceived Need for Psychological Support during the COVID-19 Pandemic