Perceived Stress Scale Research Articles

A pilot study of a gratitude journaling intervention to enhance spiritual well-being and exercise self-efficacy in Black breast cancer survivors

BackgroundBreast cancer (BC) survivorship presents significant health disparities, particularly affecting Black women, who experience a 40% higher BC death rate compared to White women. These disparities are exacerbated by comorbidities, which contribute to poorer overall health outcomes. Additionally, Black BC survivors often face psychosocial challenges, including increased stress and lower well-being, which can lead to adverse physical health effects. This pilot study aims to assess the feasibility and efficacy of a culturally sensitive gratitude journaling intervention designed to enhance spiritual well-being, exercise self-efficacy, and reduce inflammation among Black BC survivors.MethodsThis pilot study employed a two-group, parallel random-assignment experimental design to compare a gratitude journaling intervention with a general memory journaling control group. Twenty-six Black women aged 40 to 70 years with a history of BC were randomly assigned to either the gratitude journaling intervention group (n = 13) or the control group (n = 13). The gratitude intervention group engaged in gratitude journaling twice weekly for eight weeks, while the control group documented daily memories. Outcomes measured included Gratitude Questionnaire-6, FACIT-Spiritual Well-Being 12 Item Scale, Perceived Stress Scale, Giscombe Superwoman Schema Questionnaire, and the Stage of Motivational Readiness for Physical Activity questionnaire and inflammatory biomarkers. Statistical analyses included the Wilcoxon rank sum test and Fisher’s exact test.ResultsTwenty-six participants were enrolled, with 73% completing baseline and post-intervention assessments. The intervention group showed a significant improvement in spiritual well-being (p = 0.014) with a large effect size (ES = 0.57). Marginal improvements in exercise self-efficacy were also observed (ES = 0.39). Although there were no significant differences in dispositional gratitude and perceived stress between groups, the intervention group exhibited trends toward increased gratitude and reduced stress. Inflammatory biomarker analysis indicated non-significant changes, though IL-6 levels increased in the intervention group.ConclusionThis study demonstrates the feasibility and acceptability of a gratitude journaling intervention among Black BC survivors. The intervention significantly enhanced spiritual well-being and showed promise in improving exercise self-efficacy, suggesting its potential for promoting holistic wellness in this population. These findings provide a foundation for future larger-scale randomized controlled trials to further evaluate the efficacy of gratitude-based interventions for Black BC survivors.Trial registrationThis study was registered prospectively at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05473026) on 07-13-2022.

Risk factors for anxiety, depression, stress, and their comorbidities among nurses: a prospective cohort from 2020 to 2022

BackgroundNurses are at the forefront of healthcare delivery during the COVID-19, placing them at an increased risk for mental health issues. This study aimed to identify the risk factors for anxiety, depression, stress, and their comorbidities among nurses during the 2020–2022 period.MethodsA prospective cohort of nurses in Zunyi City, China, was followed from 2020 to 2022. The Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) were used to assess anxiety, depression, and stress, respectively. A self-reported questionnaire was utilized to collect data on demographic characteristics, lifestyle habits, socioeconomic status, work-related factors, and medical history. The Healthy Eating Index (HEI) was calculated to evaluate diet quality. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the associations between risk factors and mental health outcomes.ResultsAmong the 516 participating nurses, the incidence rates of new-onset anxiety, depression, and stress were 27.1%, 33.9%, and 39.9%, respectively. Frontline experience with infected patients, night shift work, longer working hours, and higher body mass index were consistently associated with increased risks of anxiety, depression, and stress, whereas a higher healthy eating index score was linked to reduced odds of these mental health outcomes. Notably, higher BMI (≥ 28: OR = 1.67, 95% CI: 1.12–2.16, p = 0.011), night shifts (> 1/week: OR = 5.12, 95% CI: 3.64–5.99, p < 0.001), longer working hours (> 40/week: OR = 1.99, 95% CI: 1.66–2.89, p < 0.001), and frontline experience (OR = 6.11, 95% CI: 4.52–8.88, p < 0.001) significantly increased comorbidity risk, while higher HEI (> 3: OR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.36–0.70, p < 0.001) reduced the risk.ConclusionOur study highlights the considerable mental health burden among nurses during the 2020–2022 period and identifies key risk factors associated with anxiety, depression, stress, and their comorbidities. These findings underscore the importance of providing targeted interventions and support for nurses, including workload management, work-life balance promotion, and healthy lifestyle encouragement, to mitigate the negative consequences of identified risk factors and improve mental health outcomes.

Prevalence and predictors of functional gastrointestinal disorder among the undergraduate students of Bangladesh.

This study aimed to address this knowledge gap by investigating FGID prevalence and its predictors among undergraduate students in Bangladesh. This cross-sectional study was conducted between 01 August 2023 and 31 January 2024 among 1,019 undergraduate students. Data were collected using a web-based survey containing questions on socio-demographics, the Rome IV questionnaire, the insomnia severity index, the perceived stress scale 4, the patient health questionnaire, and the smartphone addiction scale. Descriptive statistics, the chi-square test, the t-test, and the multivariable logistic regression model were used to report our study findings. The overall prevalence of FGID was 38.24%, with functional constipation being the most common subtype (18.24%). The multivariate analysis revealed that college canteen meal (AOR: 1.593, CI: 1.068, 2.376), occasionally and regularly delayed meal (AOR: 1.663, CI: 1.031, 2.682; AOR: 1.872, CI: 1.061, 3.301), physical inactivity (AOR:0.41, CI: 1.061, 3.301), family history of FGID and GI disease (AOR: 4.7, CI: 2.55, 8.66; AOR: 2.42, CI: 1.47, 3.96), history of abdominal surgery (AOR: 2, CI: 1.08, 3.72), psychological trauma (AOR: 1.64, CI: 1.04, 2.57), dairy-product consumption (AOR: 1.64, CI: 1.04, 2.59), >3 meals/day (AOR: 1.89, CI: 1.2, 2.98), insomnia (AOR: 1.98, CI: 0.73, 5.40), and depression (AOR: 7.02, CI: 2.74, 17.98) were significantly associated with FGID. The burden of FGIDs among Bangladeshi students is concerning. This study found significant factors contributing to their prevalence, including meal source and number of daily meals, delayed meals, family history of disease, physical activity, abdominal surgery, history of psychological trauma, depression, and insomnia. This study recommends further exploration and holistic healthcare approaches to better the well-being of young adults dealing with FGIDs.

The impact of perceived stress on the prognosis in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention.

To assess the impact of perceived stress levels in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) on the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) within a 6-month follow-up period postprocedure. A cohort of 339 hospitalized patients with coronary heart disease undergoing initial PCI was prospectively enrolled in the Department of Cardiology at two branches of Zhongda Hospital Affiliated to Southeast University between January 2022 and July 2022. Baseline data including demographic and clinical characteristics, along with the Chinese Perceived Stress Scale (CPSS), were collected. The occurrence of MACE was evaluated at 3 and 6 months post-PCI. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox regression models were engaged to analyze the relationship between perceived stress and MACE within 6 months after PCI. MACE occurred in 16.22% (55/339) of patients during the 6 following months. High CPSS at baseline was significantly associated with an increasing risk of short-term MACE occurrence (HR: 6.48, 95% confidence interval: 2.98-14.11, P < 0.05). High perceived stress during the baseline period after PCI was significantly correlated with increased incidence of MACE within 6 months postprocedure. The perceived stress level could help to identify patients undergoing PCI at heightened risk of short-term MACE.

Associations of reproductive hormones and stress-related factors with menopausal symptoms.

The main aim was to evaluate the relationships between menopausal symptoms, endogenous hormones, and stress-related factors. Participants were recruited through online advertisements at Vilnius University and social networks. Sixty-three White Lithuanian women aged 50.2 ± 2.9 years without any known diseases or conditions that could affect menopausal symptoms, hormone levels, or mental health were selected to participate in the cross-sectional study. The Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire was used to assess the intensity of menopausal symptoms in four domains (vasomotor, psychosocial, physical, and sexual). The levels of reproductive hormones were measured in blood serum. To evaluate the level of chronic stress, we used the Perceived Stress Scale 10 (PSS-10) and the assessment of hair glucocorticoids (cortisol, cortisone). Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to estimate the associations between menopausal symptoms severity, endogenous hormones, and stress-related factors. Age (the unstandardized β [B] = 0.12), follicle-stimulating hormone concentration (B = 0.9), and PSS-10 score (B = 0.08) were associated with the total Menopause-Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire score (all P < 0.05). The vasomotor domain was related to age (B = 0.19), follicle-stimulating hormone (B = 1.24), and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate concentration (B = -2.8) (all P < 0.05). The psychosocial domain was associated with the PSS-10 score (B = 0.13, P < 0.001). The physical domain was associated with the number of sleep hours (B = -0.35, P = 0.02). The sexual domain was negatively related to testosterone concentration (B = -3.5, P = 0.01). The results of the present study show that not only hormonal changes but also other factors, such as age, hours of sleep, and experienced stress, are associated with the intensity of menopausal symptoms.

Perceived and endocrine acute and chronic stress indicators in fibromyalgia syndrome

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue and tenderness and closely associated with high levels of stress. FMS is therefore often considered a stress-related disease. A comparative study was conducted with 99 individuals diagnosed with FMS and a control group of 50 pain-free individuals. Stress indicators were classified into three categories: perceived stress assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale, and daily average salivary cortisol and hair cortisol concentrations as indicators of acute and chronic stress levels related to the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Analysis of variance and covariance were used to identify group differences and the influence of covariates age, sex, and body mass index. Correlational analyses further elucidated the relationship between stress indicators and clinical symptoms. Participants with FMS reported significantly higher perceived stress levels than controls (p < .001, ηp2 = 0.3), which were positively correlated with symptom burden (r = .41, p < .001). In contrast, there were no significant differences in the endocrinological stress indicators salivary and hair cortisol between the groups (p > .05), nor were these indicators associated with clinical symptoms. The study highlights the central role of perceived stress in FMS, whereas endocrinological indicators did not differentiate FMS from controls. This finding calls for a nuanced approach to clinical assessment and therapeutic interventions tailored to patients with FMS, emphasizing the management of perceived stressors.

Effect of a Web-Based Heartfulness Program on the Mental Well-Being, Biomarkers, and Gene Expression Profile of Health Care Students: Randomized Controlled Trial.

Health care students often experience high levels of stress, anxiety, and mental health issues, making it crucial to address these challenges. Variations in stress levels may be associated with changes in dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels and gene expression. Meditative practices have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing stress and improving mental well-being. This study aims to assess the effects of Heartfulness meditation on mental well-being, DHEA-S, IL-6, and gene expression profile. The 78 enrolled participants were randomly assigned to the Heartfulness meditation (n=42, 54%) and control (n=36, 46%) groups. The participants completed the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) at baseline and after week 12. Gene expression with messenger RNA sequencing and DHEA-S and IL-6 levels were also measured at baseline and the completion of the 12 weeks. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, paired t test, and 1-way ANOVA with Bonferroni correction. The Heartfulness group exhibited a significant 17.35% reduction in PSS score (from mean 19.71, SD 5.09 to mean 16.29, SD 4.83; P<.001) compared to a nonsignificant 6% reduction in the control group (P=.31). DASS-21 scores decreased significantly by 27.14% in the Heartfulness group (from mean 21.15, SD 9.56 to mean 15.41, SD 7.87; P<.001) while it increased nonsignificantly by 17% in the control group (P=.04). For the DASS-21 subcomponents-the Heartfulness group showed a statistically significant 28.53% reduction in anxiety (P=.006) and 27.38% reduction in stress (P=.002) versus an insignificant 22% increase in anxiety (P=.02) and 6% increase in stress (P=.47) in the control group. Further, DHEA-S levels showed a significant 20.27% increase in the Heartfulness group (from mean 251.71, SD 80.98 to mean 302.74, SD 123.56; P=.002) compared to an insignificant 9% increase in the control group (from mean 285.33, SD 112.14 to mean 309.90, SD 136.90; P=.10). IL-6 levels showed a statistically significant difference in both the groups (from mean 4.93, SD 1.35 to mean 3.67, SD 1.0; 28.6%; P<.001 [Heartfulness group] and from mean 4.52, SD 1.40 to mean 2.72, SD 1.74; 40%; P<.001 [control group]). Notably, group comparison at 12 weeks revealed a significant difference in perceived stress, DASS-21 and its subcomponents, and IL-6 (all P<.05/4). The gene expression profile with messenger RNA sequencing identified 875 upregulated genes and 1539 downregulated genes in the Heartfulness group compared to baseline, and there were 292 upregulated genes and 1180 downregulated genes in the Heartfulness group compared to the control group after the intervention. Heartfulness practice was associated with decreased depression, anxiety, and stress scores and improved health measures in DHEA-S and IL-6 levels. The gene expression data point toward possible mechanisms of alleviation of symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression. ISRCTN Registry ISRCTN82860715; https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN82860715.

Assessment of mindfulness in addressing emotional eating and perceived stress among children aged 9-11 years.

there is a paucity of studies in the literature examining the relationship between children, mindfulness and diet. In this context, this study was designed to assess emotional eating and perceived stressful situations with mindfulness in children. this study was conducted with the participation of 349 children (128 boys, 221 girls) aged 9-11 living in the Karabük province. The study collected data on the participants' sociodemographic information, anthropometric measurements, number of main meals and snacks consumed per day, meal-skipping status, reasons for skipping meals, dietary motivations, and their scores on the Mindfulness Scale for Children (BAU-MSC), the Emotional Eating Scale for Children and Adolescents (EES-C), and the Perceived Stress Scale in Children (8-11 years) (PSS-C). 58.17 % of the participants had 2 main meals, 30.2 % had 3 or more main meals; 37.5 % consumed 1 snack, 31.5 % consumed 2 snacks. A positive, weakly statistically significant relationship was detected between age and body weight and height. A positive, weakly statistically significant relationship was detected between age and EES-C, anxiety-anger-disappointment subscales and PSS-C scores (r = 0.161; r = 0.178; r = 0.250; p = 0.003; p = 0.001; p = 0.000). future studies with larger samples are needed to better understand the relationship between mindfulness and emotional eating and perceived stress situations in children.

Wellbeing and Burnout of Nurses Undergoing Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Education Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Background: Burnout is defined as work-related emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and lack of personal accomplishment. Sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs) may be at increased risk for burnout. Wellbeing practices protect against burnout. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the wellbeing and burnout of nurses undergoing education to become SANEs, considering the potential impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Data were from the SANE Wellbeing Study offered in conjunction with a SANE education program. The SANE Wellbeing Survey included the Nurse Wellbeing Self-Assessment (NWSAT), Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and General Self-Efficacy (GSE) scale. Backward stepwise regression was used to identify factors that predicted NWSAT wellbeing scores. Results: A total of 68 nurses participated; most were female, white/non-Hispanic, bachelor’s-prepared, and worked in non-rural settings. About two-thirds completed the SANE Wellbeing Survey prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Higher MBI Emotional Exhaustion and PSS scores were associated with lower wellbeing on some NWSAT domains. Working in an emergency department as their primary setting, working in a rural hospital, and lower education level were associated with lower scores on some wellbeing domains. Nurses who completed the survey during the pandemic had lower MBI Personal Accomplishment, CD-RISC, and GSE scores, and higher PSS scores. Conclusion: Nurses who self-select to become SANEs may have good baseline wellbeing and low burnout. Implications for Clinical Forensic Nursing Practice: Strategies to promote wellbeing and prevent burnout after beginning SANE practice can support a healthy SANE workforce and prevent attrition.

The Mediating Role of Trait Mindfulness in Academic Stress: A Cross-Sectional Study Among Italian University Students.

Stress is a significant factor influencing the mental well-being of students, and mindfulness strategies have been associated with reduced academic stress. Nevertheless, there is a limited body of research investigating stress and trait mindfulness in a sample of Italian university students. This study aims to explore the relationship between academic stress, effort-reward imbalance, and trait mindfulness. Perceived stress, effort-reward imbalance, and trait mindfulness in 442 Italian university students (mean age = 23.37 ± 4.33) were assessed through the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Effort-Reward Imbalance - Student Questionnaire (ERI-SQ) and Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ). Pearson correlation analysis showed that PSS negatively correlates with FFMQ and it positively correlates with ERI-SQ, while FFMQ negatively correlates with ERI-SQ. Furthermore, mediation analysis revealed that FFMQ partially mediates the effect of ERI-SQ on PSS. This study provides the first examination of the relationships between perceived stress, effort-reward imbalance, and trait mindfulness among Italian students. The findings suggest that trait mindfulness is associated with lower levels of perceived stress and could potentially mediate the relationship between effort-reward imbalance and stress. These insights may inform future research and interventions aimed at reducing academic stress.

Psychometric Properties of the Turkish Adaptation of Stress Mindset Measure

Objective: This study aimed to adapt the Stress Mindset Measure to Turkish culture by conducting validity and reliability analyses. Method: Convenience sampling method was used in this study, which was conducted with the survey model. With 354 adult participants, Stress Mindset Measure, Life Satisfaction Scale and Perceived Stress Scale were used as data collection tools. Cronbach's alpha and two-half reliability coefficient were used for the reliability of the Stress Mindset Measur. The results of the analyses showed that the internal consistency coefficient was .85 and the split-half reliability coefficient was .76. Furthermore, the difference between the 27% lower and upper groups among the participants was statistically significant. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was used to test the construct validity of the Stress Mindset Measure. Results: The model fit values were at an acceptable level. Item factor loadings ranged between .49 and .78 and the scale was found to have a single-factor structure. Besides, the results of the analyses conducted to ensure convergent validity were found to be at the desired level. The concepts of perceived stress and life satisfaction were used to test criterion validity. Conclusion: Turkish adaptation of the Stress Mindset Measures a valid and reliable measurement tool.

Assessment of burnout and perceived stress among health professionals: the role of the hospital work environment in Sidi Slimane, Morocco

ABSTRACT Healthcare worker burnout has serious implications for patient care and healthcare systems. This study examines burnout and stress among healthcare professionals in Sidi Slimane, Morocco, focusing on the impact of the hospital work environment. Using a mixed-methods approach combining the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), the perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and in-depth interviews, we assessed 78 healthcare professionals between December 2017 and February 2018. The results show that 8.97% of caregivers are in a pathological state of burnout, with significant correlations between perceived stress and burnout dimensions. Recent studies indicate increasing burnout rates in Moroccan healthcare settings. Our findings provide crucial baseline data for understanding systemic vulnerabilities and distinguishing between burnout-related performance issues and negligence. The study emphasises the need for culturally appropriate interventions within the specific context of the Moroccan healthcare system.

Development of a forest healing program for individuals with musculoskeletal disease risk and verification of its preventive effects.

Preventive treatment is crucial in averting the onset of musculoskeletal diseases, particularly among individuals in high-stress occupations. This study aimed to develop a forest healing program and a standardized survey index to gauge its efficacy in mitigating stress and preventing musculoskeletal disorders. Service-oriented workers who engage in repetitive tasks but are not traditional office workers at risk of musculoskeletal issues were recruited. The forest healing program was crafted through a review of existing initiatives and identification of factors alleviating muscle tension and stress. A comprehensive survey index encompassing stress, depression, anxiety, quality of life, and somatization was designed. Participants were assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Somatization Scale (SOM), and the newly devised survey index before and after engaging in the developed forest healing program. Evaluation of 42 participants pre- and post-program revealed significant reductions in PSS (25.857 ± 8.120/17.905 ± 5.958; P < .001), SOM (27.905 ± 8.839/20.286 ± 8.019; P < .001), and standard survey index scores (33.857 ± 10.280/23.333 ± 8.703; P < .001). The developed forest healing program demonstrated substantial stress relief and muscle relaxation benefits, proving effective in preventing musculoskeletal diseases. Moreover, the standardized survey index emerged as a valuable tool for assessing stress related to such disorders, exhibiting correlations with PSS and SOM.

The effect of computer-based Stress Inoculation Training (SIT) approach on the pelvic pain, depression, and anxiety in students with primary dysmenorrhea: a clinical trial study

BackgroundPrimary dysmenorrhea (PD) is one of the most common pains experienced by women. Stress Inoculation Training (SIT) is a cognitive-behavioral technique that immunizes them against future periods of stress. The purpose of this research is to investigate the effectiveness of a computer-based stress inoculation approach on pelvic pain, depression, and anxiety symptoms in students with PD.MethodsThe present study is a clinical trial conducted on 100 students with PD. The SIT intervention consisted of eight consecutive sessions. The content of the sessions was created as multimedia on a computer platform of a site. In each session, several interactive questions were asked about the topics of that session, and participants answered them, with responses recorded in the system. Then, each individual session, lasting about 50 min, was sent as a link (offline) to a participant. Data collection tools included the demographics Checklist, McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ), Moos Menstrual Distress Questionnaire (MMDQ), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ), and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-14), which were completed on the second menstrual day of the cycle before the study and for three consecutive cycles after the intervention by each student. The data were analyzed using chi-square, generalized linear mixed models (GLMM), and multiple linear regression tests. The significance level was set at P < 0.05.ResultsThe results of the GLMM test showed that the SIT intervention decreased depression (p = 0.002), anxiety (p = 0.001), menstrual distress (p = 0.001), pain intensity (p = 0.003), and perceived stress (p = 0.002), while it increased pain self-efficacy (p = 0.001). Based on multiple linear regression analysis, the main predictors of depression were the student’s age and residence in a dormitory (β=-0.255, p = 0.047 and β=-0.376, p = 0.005, respectively). The factors influencing pain self-efficacy were birth rank and the type of university admission (β=-0.351, p = 0.027 and β=-0.249, p = 0.030, respectively). In the presence of confounding variables, increasing age and living in a dormitory were risk factors that increased depression, while studying with tuition fees and a higher birth rank were associated with decreased self-efficacy.ConclusionThe computer-based SIT was effective in reducing pelvic pain, and psychological factors, and in increasing pain self-efficacy in students with primary dysmenorrhea. Therefore, it can be used as a useful solution to manage complications associated with primary dysmenorrhea.Trial registrationIRCT20230130057274N5Date of registration: 2024-04-29Retrospectively registered

Do Social Support, Perceived Stress, and Psychological Distress Mediate the Relationship Between Social Problem-Solving and Suicidality in People With Gender Dysphoria?

Individuals with gender dysphoria (GD) often exhibit suicidal inclinations. In the present study, we investigated the scope of suicidal ideation and attempts and the roles of perceived social support, stress, and psychological distress in mediating social problem-solving and suicidality in individuals with GD. Two hundred and five adults with GD (110 GD assigned female at birth [AFAB]; 95 GD assigned male at birth [AMAB]) completed a self-report survey including questions about suicide ideation and attempts, as well as the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and Social Problem-Solving Inventory-Revised (SPSI-R). We utilized correlation, regression, and mediation analyses to assess models. Overall, both suicidal ideation (for AFAB = 61.8%; for AMAB = 61.1%; p = 0.91) and suicide attempts (for AFAB = 43.6%; for AMAB = 37.9%; p = 0.41) were common in individuals with GD. The two groups did not differ in GHQ-12, PSS, and SPSI-R total scale scores, but AMAB scored lower on the MSPSS total score. Perceived social support, perceived stress, and psychological distress partially mediated social problem-solving and suicidal ideation, whereas perceived stress and psychological distress fully mediated social problem-solving and suicide attempts. There is a need to develop interventions to improve the psychological well-being of people with GD. Current results suggest that problem-solving therapy may effectively suit the need to manage suicidality in people with GD.

Stress, coping profiles, and depression among nurses: a latent profile and mediation analysis

BackgroundStress is significantly associated with depressed mood in nurses. However, it remains unclear whether the mechanisms by which two types of stress—childhood adversity and perceived stress—affect depression are identical. This study aims to investigate the relationship between stress (including childhood adversity and perceived stress) and depression, as well as the mediating role of coping profiles.MethodsA survey was conducted among 737 nurses in a tertiary hospital in China using the Revised Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire, the Perceived Stress Scale, the Trait Coping Styles Questionnaire, and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Latent profile analyses were performed using Mplus, and mediation analyses were conducted using R software.ResultsCoping profiles were categorized into four groups: “Low Coping” (9.9%), “Inadequate Coping” (39.5%), “Emotional Suppression” (32.0%), and “Active Coping” (18.6%). Both childhood adversity and perceived stress were positively associated with depression levels in nurses. The “Emotional Suppression” profiles played a mediating role in the relationship between childhood adversity and depression. “Emotional Suppression” and “Low Coping” profiles played mediating roles in the relationship between perceived stress and depression.ConclusionsStress and coping profiles are established risk factors of depression among nurses. Reducing stress levels and improving coping profiles among nurses can have a substantial impact on the prevention and alleviation of depression.

Effects of Manual Therapy and Home Exercise Treatment on Pain, Stress, Sleep, and Life Quality in Patients with Bruxism: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to examine the effects of manual therapy (MT) and home exercise (HE) treatments on pain, sleep quality, stress level, and quality of life in patients with bruxism. Materials and Methods: The study included 30 bruxism patients ages 18–25 years who were randomly divided into the manual therapy group (MTG) and home exercise group (HEG). Before treatment (T1), all patients were asked to fill out the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI), and Quality of Life Scale/Short Form-36 (SF-36), and additionally, the number of trigger points (NTP) and pain levels were determined. MT and HE were applied for 8 weeks, and all tests were repeated at the end of treatment (T2). A paired-samples t test was used for intra-group comparisons at T1 and T2, and an independent t test was used for inter-group comparisons. The statistical significance level was accepted as p &lt; 0.05. Results: When the results obtained with MT and HE were examined after 8 weeks of treatment, a significant difference was found for all parameters (FAI, PSQI, PSS, SF-36, NTP, activity pain, and night pain levels, p &lt; 0.05) except rest pain in HEG. According to the inter-group comparison, a significant difference was found in PSQI, FAI, and NTP (p &lt; 0.05). However, it was determined that both groups showed statistically similar effects in terms of pain, perceived stress, and quality of life (p &gt; 0.05). Conclusions: MT and HE reduce perceived stress and pain intensity and also improve quality of life and sleep in patients with bruxism. HE is as effective as MT in terms of pain, stress quality of life. MT is more effective than HE in improving sleep quality and TMD symptoms. Both manual therapy and home exercise applications can be applied as alternative treatment methods in the treatment of bruxism.

Assessment of sleep bruxism and its association with sleep quality, stress levels, and dental health in pediatric population: a multifactorial analysis.

Bruxism is defined as the recurring muscular activity of the jaw, which is distinguished by the unconscious grinding or clenching of teeth or pushing and forcing of the lower jaw. The present study was conducted to assess sleep bruxism and its association with sleep quality, stress levels, and dental health in the paediatric population. 384 children aged 6-12years were recruited for the study. Ethical approval from the institutional ethical committee and informed consent from parents and guardians were obtained. Children with systemic diseases, mental or developmental disorders, CNS-affecting medications, or those whose parents did not provide consent were not included. Bruxism was identified using the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) criteria through parental reports. Sleep quality and stress levels were assessed using AASM guidelines and the Perceived Stress Scale for Children (PSS-C). A chi-square test was applied to assess association, with a p value < 0.05 considered to be significant. The number of siblings and the mother's education level were also significantly associated. It was found that sleep bruxism is significantly associated with all parameters of sleep quality except the usage of pillows. When stress levels among children were assessed, it was found that 60 (15.6%) children had very low stress, 131 (34.1%) children had low stress, 95 (24.7%) children had average stress, 92 (24%) children had high stress, and 6 (1.6%) children had a very high level of stress. A statistically highly significant (p = 0.001) association was found between bruxism and stress levels among children. The results of the present study concluded that sleep bruxism was significantly linked with sleep quality and stress levels among children, which ultimately affect dental health.

Stress, physical activity, and mindfulness practices among youth amidst COVID-19

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated stress and anxiety among young people, particularly university students, impacting their mental well-being and daily life. Given the rise in social isolation and economic uncertainty, the adoption of mindfulness practices such as sophrology, meditation, and yoga becomes essential for improving their mental health. This study aims to evaluate the impact of these practices on stress levels and their effect on engagement in physical activities among youths.MethodThis study employed a mixed methods design to assess the impact of different wellness and mindfulness practices on stress levels and physical activity (PA) engagement among university students. Quantitative data were gathered electronically from 218 students at the University of Rouen and the university of Paris-Cité through validated questionnaires, including custom tools on sports and mindfulness practices and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). The sample consisted mainly of young adults aged 18 to 35, with a majority of 170 female and 48 male participants. Qualitative insights were gathered through semi-structured interviews with three directors of the university's sports and physical activities department (SUAPS), as well as four wellness program instructors. Data analysis involved statistical techniques using Statistical Analysis System (SAS) software for quantitative data, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically using Sphinx software, a tool for textual analysis. Ethical approval for the study was obtained, and confidentiality of all participants was maintained throughout the research.Results and conclusionThe COVID-19 pandemic had significant effects on French university students’ PA, mental health, and stress levels. Lockdowns led to a decline in sports practices for many, while others adapted by increasing their engagement in fitness and wellness practices. The majority of participants (64.68%) reported moderate levels of stress. A significant correlation was found between motivations for mental health support and stress management, and higher levels of stress (p = 0.0000 and p = 0.0024, respectively). Regular participation in wellness activities was associated with lower stress (p = 0.0193). The findings reinforce the idea that incorporating wellness practices into educational environments can strengthen students’ mental resilience and overall well-being, equipping them with essential tools to effectively cope with future stressors.

Prevalence of Perceived Stress Among Polypharmacy Patients: A Cross-sectional Study

Background: The concurrent use of 5 or more medications is the most recognized definition of polypharmacy. Many physical and mental consequences could be associated with polypharmacy, and stress is no exception. The objective of the current study is to investigate the prevalence of perceived stress among polypharmacy individuals and its association with sociodemographic factors. Method: A cross-sectional study was carried out between September and December at 6 major hospitals and several private clinics in Iraq. Study participants were required to have at least 2 chronic diseases and be using 5 or more drugs for at least 90 days, aged 50 years or older. Sociodemographic data and the Perceived Stress Scale 10 (PSS-10) were completed by participants. The Mann-Whitney test was used to compare the median PSS-10 scores for different sociodemographic factors. Results: Among the 235 polypharmacy participants, the median PSS-10 score was 20. Moreover, the median PSS-10 score was significantly higher among female participants, those with an increased number of chronic diseases, the presence of adverse effects, and participants with financial issues related to healthcare (P &lt;0.05). Conclusion: The present findings indicate a moderate perceived stress score among polypharmacy participants, highlighting the need for strategies to alleviate stress alongside personalized medication management.