Prevention Of Mental Health Problems Research Articles

Supporting young siblings of children with intellectual disabilities and/or visual impairments with the serious game 'Broodles': A mixed methods randomized controlled trial.

Siblings of children with neurodevelopmental conditions experience conflicting emotions and have an increased risk of mental health problems. Several sibling interventions have been developed, but few are readily available, leaving many siblings unsupported. Therefore, the free, online, self-administered sibling serious game 'Broodles' was developed. This study assessed its social validity and effectiveness in promoting quality of life, and inter- and intrapersonal factors in siblings (6-9 years) of children with intellectual disabilities and/or visual impairments. A mixed methods, waitlist control group, randomized controlled trial was conducted. In total, 107 Dutch or Belgian parent-child dyads completed questionnaires at three timepoints (baseline, one-month post-test, two-month follow-up). The intervention group also completed post-test interviews. Effects were assessed using multilevel modelling, and thematic analysis was applied to the evaluations. Significant, weak interaction effects (R² =.03-.06) were found on sibling negative adjustment, but only in those who completed ≥ 75 % of the game and followed the study timeline. Regardless of group, (very) small, significant improvements over time were found on several outcomes (R² =.01-.06). 'Broodles' was experienced as fun (80 %) and helpful (79 %). Perceived learning outcomes included the themes: 'sibling awareness and validation', 'emotions and needs', 'coping with emotions and situations' and 'family interactions'. Although quantitative data showed small effects, qualitative data revealed a variety of learning outcomes which can contribute to siblings' resilience, and prevention of mental health problems. To unlock its full potential, future studies should examine if additional family-targeted components can enhance the intervention's impact.

Development and Validation of the Perfectionism Literacy Questionnaire

Perfectionism is a multidimensional personality characteristic associated with mental health problems. However, its features are commonly misunderstood, and many people are unaware of the risks it can pose. This study aimed to develop the first self-report measure of perfectionism literacy. That is, the degree of knowledge someone has about perfectionism, its features and consequences, and when and where to seek help if needed. The Perfectionism Literacy Questionnaire (PLQ) was validated over four stages using four samples of community adults ( N = 1078 total; Mage = 37.17 years). In stage one, we generated a pool of items. In stage two, we used exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis to derive a 29-item, seven-factor measure. In stage three, we assessed relationships between the PLQ, perfectionism, and attitudes toward help-seeking for mental health support and found the PLQ is distinguishable from these constructs. In stage four, we examined whether the PLQ was responsive to change following an educational video on perfectionism. We found tentative evidence that minimal intervention can increase perfectionism literacy. Our findings suggest that the PLQ is valid and reliable and may be useful for educational purposes and primary prevention of mental health problems.

Intervention strategies to prevent mental health problems and improve resilience in employed parents from conception until the child is 5 years of age: a scoping review

AimTo understand the extent and type of evidence in relation to the effectiveness of intervention strategies targeting working pregnant women, and their partners, for the prevention of mental health problems (depression, anxiety) and improving resilience, from conception until the child is 5 years of age.MethodsA scoping review was conducted searching Pubmed (including Medline), Embase, Web of Science Core Collection and Scopus. Inclusion criteria were based on population (employed parents), context (from -9 months to 5 years postpartum) and concept (mental health problems, resilience and prevention/ preventative interventions).ResultsOf the 17,699 papers screened, 3 full text papers were included. Studies focused on intervention strategies for working parents which showed a relationship with a reduction in mental health problems (depression and/or anxiety). The intervention strategies extracted from the literature referred to ‘social support’. Social support provided by both the social and the work environment correlated with prenatal stress and depressive symptoms in the postpartum period, and supports a healthy work-family balance.ConclusionSocial support seems to have a positive association with the reduction of mental health problems. However, there are still important gaps in the literature such as a lack of RCT designs to test effectiveness of interventions and systematic reviews. Findings from this study may provide a roadmap for future research to close these gaps in knowledge.

Cortical Structure-specific Biomarkers of Adolescent Externalizing Mental Disorders

During adolescence, the morphology of the cerebral cortex undergoes significant developmental changes. One of the most fundamental changes during neurodevelopmental is the accelerated thinning of the cortex observed in early adolescence, which differs from the pattern seen in early childhood and adulthood. This process might be driven by many factors, such as cortical myelination and synaptic pruning. Moreover, reduced cortical thickness (CT) during adolescence is associated with impaired psychopathology and cognitive abilities, suggesting that CT could serve as an important biomarker for assessing mental health. Both CT and cortical surface area (SA) in adolescents are associated with various forms of psychopathology, suggesting that neuroimage markers might provide valuable insights into the progression of mental disorders for adolescent. However, these studies often have different age groups and use limited sample sizes, leading to considerable debate about the association of CT and SA changes with adolescents mental disorders. With data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study, this study combined case-control analysis and a psychopathological stratified classification (HITOP) framework to examine structural changes in CT and SA. Our results suggested that specific cortical structures might change occur throughout the brain in the family diagnosis of externalization disorder. Moreover, different genetic mechanisms could regulate the neurodevelopmental patterns of cortical structures. This study could help clinicians screen for the disease at an earlier stage to facilitate accurate diagnosis and prevention of mental health problems and has important implications for the fields of cognitive psychology and clinical psychiatry.

Assessing the Psychometric Properties of the French-Canadian Version of the Psychological Safety Climate Questionnaire (PSC-12)

Assessing the Psychometric Properties of the French-Canadian Version of the Psychological Safety Climate Questionnaire (PSC-12)

Nature lifts when feeling low: Daily high and low awe nature clips decrease repetitive negative thinking and dampening and increase subjective happiness in adults.

Exposure to nature can enhance mental well-being, making nature-based interventions promising for the treatment and prevention of mental health problems like depression. Given the decreased self-focus and sense of self-diminishment associated with awe, the present study investigated the impact of exposure to awe-evoking nature on two key risk and maintenance factors of depression-repetitive negative thinking (RNT) and dampening of positive feelings-and on subjective happiness. In a randomized controlled trial, we tested the effects of exposure to awe-evoking nature clips through a 1-week intervention, consisting of watching a 1-min clip on a daily basis of either awe-evoking (n high awe = 108) or more mundane nature scenes (n low awe = 105). Before, immediately after (post-intervention) and 1 week after the intervention (follow-up), participants completed self-report scales probing RNT, dampening, and subjective happiness. Results indicated significant decreases in these outcomes at post-intervention and follow-up in both groups. We discuss study limitations, touch upon future research ideas, and reflect upon the role of nature for clinical applications.

Perceptions of mental health, suicide and working conditions in the construction industry-A qualitative study.

The aim of the study was to explore perceptions of mental ill health, suicidal behaviour and working conditions among male construction workers, in order to gain an in-depth understanding of these phenomenon and to identify relevant avenues for workplace interventions. Data were collected in individual and group interviews, and 43 individuals from the Swedish construction industry, workers, union representative and managers, participated in the study. Inductive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Five main themes were found: Difficult to talk about mental health, Demanding working environment affects mental health, Substance abuse among construction workers, Importance of management, and Need for routines and social support in the workplace. Many participants reported that there was a stigma related to mental health. Suicides that had occurred among colleagues were perceived to come out of the blue. The working environment in the construction industry was perceived to have a negative effect on mental health, and it was reported that the management played an important role in both the cause and prevention of mental health problems. The results from this Swedish study are in accordance with previous international research regarding a macho culture, stigma of mental health and a demanding working environment in the construction industry. The study adds to existing knowledge by highlighting that suicides were perceived to be very unexpected, that poor physical health affected mental health and that many participants did not know how to deal with mental health issues in the workplace.

Effects of a Serious Game for Adolescent Mental Health on Cognitive Vulnerability: Pilot Usability Study.

Adolescent mental health is of utmost importance. E-mental health interventions, and serious games in particular, are appealing to adolescents and can have beneficial effects on their mental health. A serious game aimed at improving cognitive vulnerability (ie, beliefs or attitudes), which can predispose an individual to mental health problems, can contribute to the prevention of these problems in adolescents. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of the prototype of a serious game called "Silver." The prototype of the serious game was developed using a user-centered participatory design. The prototype of Silver focused on 1 aspect of a serious game for improving cognitive vulnerability in adolescents, that is, the recognition and identification of cognitive distortions. Through the game, players were required to identify and classify the character's thoughts as helpful or unhelpful. Upon successful advancement to the next level, the task becomes more challenging, as players must also identify specific types of cognitive distortions. A pre- and posttest uncontrolled design was used to evaluate the game, with a 1-week intervention phase in which participants were asked to play the game. Participants aged 12-16 years were recruited in schools. The outcomes of interest were the recognition of cognitive distortions and presence of participants' cognitive distortions. The game was also evaluated on its effects, content, and usefulness. A total of 630 adolescents played Silver and completed the assessments. Adolescents were significantly better at recognizing cognitive distortions at the pretest (mean 13.09, SD 4.08) compared to the posttest (mean 13.82, SD 5.09; t629=-4.00, P<.001). Furthermore, their cognitive distortions decreased significantly at the posttest (mean 38.73, SD 12.79) compared to the pretest (mean 41.43, SD 10.90; t629=7.98, P<.001). Participants also indicated that the game helped them recognize cognitive distortions. Many participants considered the game appealing (294/610, 48.2%) but boring (317/610, 52%) and preferred a more comprehensive game (299/610, 49%). Findings from this study suggest that a serious game may be an effective tool for improving cognitive vulnerability in adolescents. The development of such a serious game, based on the prototype, is recommended. It may be an important and innovative tool for the universal prevention of mental health problems in adolescents. Future research on the effects of the game is warranted.

Biochemical characterization and gene structure analysisof the 24-kDa glutathione transferase sigma from Taenia solium.

Taenia solium can cause human taeniasis and/or cysticercosis. The latter can in some instances cause human neurocysticercosis which is considered a priority in disease-control strategies and the prevention of mental health problems. Glutathione transferases are crucial for the establishment and long-term survival of T. solium; therefore, we structurally analyzed the 24-kDa glutathione transferase gene (Ts24gst) of T. solium and biochemically characterized its product. The gene promoter showed potential binding sites for transcription factors and xenobiotic regulatory elements. The gene consists of a transcription start site, four exons split by three introns, and a polyadenylation site. The gene architecture is conserved in cestodes. Recombinant Ts24GST (rTs24GST) was active and dimeric. Anti-rTs24GST serum showed slight cross-reactivity with human sigma-class GST. A 3D model of Ts24GST enabled identification of putative residues involved in interactions of the G-site with GSH and of the H-site with CDNB and prostaglandin D2. Furthermore, rTs24GST showed optimal activity at 45 °C and pH 9, as well as high structural stability in a wide range of temperatures and pHs. These results contribute to the better understanding of this parasite and the efforts directed to fight taeniasis/cysticercosis.

How is intergenerational emotional cohesion linked to depression among older internal migrants in China: the mediating roles of loneliness and perceived stress

BackgroundLate-life internal migration is frequently associated with a higher risk of depression in older parents. This research delves into the impact of intergenerational emotional cohesion (IEC) on depression in older internal migrants and the underlying mechanisms within the contemporary Chinese context.MethodsObtained from a cross-sectional survey in Nanjing, China, the research involved 654 older internal migrants (66.97% female; mean age = 66.05 years; SD = 4.67). Variables were assessed using the Intergenerational Solidarity Inventory, 3-item R-UCLA Loneliness Scale, Perceived Stress Scale, and 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). For mediation exploration, a serial mediation model was utilized, and the Bootstrap method was employed to test the signifcance of these mediation effects.ResultsIEC demonstrates a negative correlation with depression. Through IEC, three significant mediation pathways were identified that directly affect depression: (1) loneliness (β=-0.06; Ratio=17.14%), (2) perceived stress (β=-0.09; Ratio=25.71%), and (3) loneliness and perceived stress (β=-0.03; Ratio=8.57%).ConclusionsIEC can impact the depression of older internal migrants by mitigating negative psychological emotions during the migration process. This finding provides valuable theoretical insights for the prevention of mental health problems among this demographic.

Economic interventions for the prevention of mental health problems: The role of cash transfers.

There is a strong, bidirectional association between social disadvantage and poor mental health. The risk of experiencing mental health problems is particularly enhanced by factors associated with living in poverty. Thus, economic interventions may be effective in reducing the burden of mental health issues in these populations. This article explores the evidence based on one specific type of economic intervention on mental health, that is, supplementing household income through cash transfers. This narrative evidence is supplemented by an in-depth analysis of one of the world's largest national cash transfer programs, the Bolsa Família program, in Brazil. We report that evidence from multiple contexts clearly demonstrates that cash transfers are highly effective in reducing the burden of mental health issues and reducing mental health disparities. We then consider the specific mechanisms through which cash transfers influence mental health. Finally, we discuss the need for these interventions and, referring to the Brazilian case study, explore potential strategies for their implementation at scale and the implications for research and policy. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Promoting mental health and wellbeing as means to prevent disability: a review.

Mental health is one of the key pillars of general welfare, and through its promotion, disability can be prevented. This research paper covers the field of literature that primarily addresses the increase of mental health and wellbeing aimed at preventing disability. The analysis depends on secondary data that is acquired from different studies and reports to determine the link between mental health interventions and disability prevention. After screening, 50 articles eventually qualified for this narrative review. The results indicate that prevention of mental health problems could reduce the risk of disability development by reducing underlying risk factors and, consequently, improving the quality of life. The study highlights the significance of early preventive interventions and support systems to curtail the onset of mental health disorders, which could later result in impairment. It does the same by advocating for multi-disciplinary approach that combines mental health promotion policies with existing disability prevention strategies to improve outcomes. The review points to mental health promotion as a preventative measure that can prevent disability and improve overall wellbeing. Through efforts to identify, prevent, and cure mental health problems, individuals can ensure optimal functioning and enjoy a better quality of life. This finding is indicative of a broader healthcare approach integrating mental health promotion that is aimed at diminishing the burden of disabilities and improving overall public health outcomes.

Defining the scope and content of mental health guidelines for community sport in Australia: A Delphi study

Regular sport participation can lead to several known physical and psychological health benefits. However, some sport environments may be contributing to the development of mental health disorders in participants. Elite sporting organisations have introduced several guidelines and positions statements to ensure psychologically safe sport environments, but these are often not applicable to the recreational sport setting. To guarantee psychologically safe sport environments for all participants, there has been an urgent call to develop mental health guidelines for recreational sport. To ensure future guidelines meet the needs of recreational sport environments, and are feasibly implemented, collaboration with experts is needed. The aim of this study was therefore to explore and synthesise the opinions of experts on the scope and content of mental health guidelines for community sport using the Delphi technique. Twenty-one experts from around Australia participated in two Delphi rounds, one qualitative and one quantitative, to reach consensus on key areas of future guidelines. Five key groupings were identified from the qualitative responses, which led to the identification of 13 key statements related to the provision of mental health promotion, prevention, and care in sport. Eight of the statements related to the role of community sport organisations in the promotion of positive mental health, and prevention of mental health problems. None of the statements were concerned with mental health care as most experts did not indicate this was the responsibility of community sport clubs. An additional five statements related to the responsibilities of the different levels of sport governance. Practical implications and future directions for the development of mental health guidelines for recreational sport are discussed.

Validation of a translated comprehensive mental health literacy measure for adolescents (KAMHS-NL)

Abstract Mental health literacy (MHL) is considered to be of crucial importance for early recognition and self-management of mental health problems, and for the use and acceptance of mental health services. MHL has been identified as an important factor for the promotion and prevention of mental health problems, especially during adolescence. Recently, the Knowledge and Attitudes to Mental Health Scales (KAMHS) has been developed to assess MHL in adolescents. Studies show that the KAMHS is a comprehensive instrument that could potentially be widely used within the research community. However, it has thus far not been validated in different contexts. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to assess the content, structural, and construct validity of a translated version of the KAMHS in another country, namely the Netherlands. First, we established the content validity of the translated KAMHS (KAHMS-NL) through cognitive interviewing with adolescents (n = 16). Next, we collected data among adolescents aged 13-16 attending secondary schools in the Netherlands (n = 404) on mental health literacy (KAMHS-NL), mental health, resilience, and use of mental health support. We then assessed structural validity by applying confirmatory and exploratory factor analysis. Lastly, construct validity was assessed by analyzing convergent and divergent correlations between subscales of the KAMHS-NL and other instruments. Preliminary results suggest that the KAMHS-NL has good content validity, while the factor structure previously identified by the developers was confirmed with two models for the Dutch version. For construct validity, significant although relatively small-to-moderate convergent correlations with the reference scales (r = 0.14-0.40) and small divergent correlations (r = 0.00-0.06) were found. More detailed results will be made available at the time of the presentation. We conclude that the KAMHS-NL is a reliable and valid measure for adolescent MHL which deserves wider implementation. Key messages • The KAMHS-NL is a reliable and valid measure for adolescent mental health literacy. • Cross-cultural translation and validation of the KAMHS is needed for wider and more streamlined measurement of adolescent mental health literacy.

Associations between the urban environment and psychotic experiences in adolescents.

In 2050 two-thirds of the world's population is predicted to live in cities, which asks for a better understanding of how the urban environment affects mental health. Urbanicity has repeatedly been found to be a risk factor, in particular for psychosis. Here, we explored what factors of the urban exposome underlie the association between urban characteristics and psychotic experiences (PE) in adolescents. Participants were 815 adolescents (mean age 14.84years, SD 0.78) from an at-risk cohort (greater Rotterdam area, the Netherlands) oversampled on their self-reported emotional and behavioral problems. We used linear regression analysis to examine the association with detailed geodata on urbanicity (surrounding address density), green space density (high and low vegetation), and mixed noise levels (road, rail, air, industry, and wind power) with PE in adolescents. Analyses were adjusted for multiple socio-economic and parental confounders. Furthermore, we explored sex-interaction effects. Higher surrounding address density and low greenspace density were each independently associated with more PE (B=0.18, 95% CI 0.02; 0.34 and B=0.17, 95% CI 0.01; 0.32, respectively). High mixed noise levels were only associated with more PE in boys (B=0.23, 95% CI 0.01; 0.46). A sex-interaction effect was found for high urbanicity (B=-0.46, 95% CI -0.77; -0.14) and low greenspace density (B=-0.49, 95% CI -0.73; -0.11), illustrating that these associations with PE were specific for boys. Multiple characteristics of living in an urban area are associated with more PE in adolescent boys. Our observations provide leads for prevention of mental health problems via urban designing.

School-based interventions for the promotion of mental health and prevention of mental health problems: review of the literature

Abstract Given the elevated prevalence of mental health symptoms in school-aged children, there are opportunities to intervene with universal and targeted interventions delivered in schools. Considering the evidence across selected reviews, school-delivered mental health promotion and illness prevention interventions show to have small and modest effects in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. More research is required to find out what works best, for whom and under which circumstances.

Detecting signs of mental health problems in secondary school-aged youth

Objective: The study purpose was to describe secondary school nurses’, subject teachers’, special needs teachers’, study counselors’ and school social workers’ (n = 60) experiences of stressors that contribute to the development of mental health problems in secondary school pupils. Another purpose was to describe the professionals’ educational needs regarding mental health problems of secondary school pupils. The study aimed at producing information that can promote the detection of mental health problems and facilitate early interventions in secondary schools. The information collected came from the professionals only, not from the pupils or their parents.Methods: Data were collected in Finland using a Webropol online survey and analyzed by inductive content analysis.Results: According to the results, secondary school pupils’ mental health problems are associated with physical and psychosocial stressors, and with stressors pertaining to learning and studying, lifestyle, family, friend relationships and socioeconomic factors. In addition, the pupils’ mental health problems are associated with stressors pertaining to social media. Professionals working at secondary schools need education on how to identify pupils’ mental health problems, how to take up the concern with the pupil and parents, and how to support and counsel youth with a mental health problem.Conclusions: Although information packages, recommendations, materials and tools are available, encouragement and more specific and concrete mental health education for both pupils and professionals is required. New structures and practices, and possibly re-allocation of resources, may be necessary. The teachers’ role in mental health promotion and prevention of mental health problems should be supported and resourced more effectively. Psychiatric nurses should be employed at schools.

The influence of adverse and positive childhood experiences on young people's mental health and experiences of self-harm and suicidal ideation

The influence of adverse and positive childhood experiences on young people's mental health and experiences of self-harm and suicidal ideation

DETEKSI DINI KESEHATAN JIWA PERAWAT DAN PENERAPAN ADAPTASI KEBIASAAN BARU PADA MASA PANDEMI COVID-19 DI PROVINSI ACEH

Stress that arises as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic can be in the form of fear and anxiety about personal health and the health of other loved ones, changes in sleep patterns and or eating patterns, difficulty sleeping and concentrating, and aggravating the condition of someone who has a history of chronic illness and/or psychological disorders. The purpose of this study was to find out the results of early detection of mental health by nurses and the application of New Habit Adaptation during the Covid-19 pandemic in Aceh Province. This research method uses a survey research method, with a descriptive research design using a questionnaire as a data collection instrument. The results of the study of 120 respondents obtained the results of the detection of mental health by nurses: 12 respondents who were detected to have Neurosis (10%) and suicidal thoughts/ideas 1 person (0.83%). While the results of the Implementation of New Habit Adaptation (IMR) in nurses showed an increase in physical immunity by 40%, an increase in mental immunity was carried out on average by 38.3%, prevention of transmission of Covid-19 had an average value of 30.1%, and prevention of mental health problems related to Covid -19 by 28.4%. Overall, it can be concluded that the results of early detection of mental health by nurses during the Covid-19 pandemic showed healthy results (no one experienced psychotic disorders and only a small percentage of 10% had neurotic disorders).

The efficacy of psychological interventions for university students: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract: IntroductionMental health problems are increasingly prevalent among students, necessitating adequate mental health support both for those who with or at risk of developing a mental health disorder.ObjectivesThis systematic review examined the efficacy of psychological interventions delivered to student populations and whether interventions with some form of adaptation to the content or delivery of the intervention for students could improve outcomes compared to interventions which had no such adaptation.MethodsRandomised controlled trials of interventions for students with or at risk of mental health problems were included. Specific adaptation for students (or whether they utilised a student population as a convenient sample) was recorded. Meta-analyses were conducted and multivariate meta-regressions explored the effect of adaptation on the pooled effect size. Eighty-four studies were includedResultsPromising effects were found for both treatment and preventative interventions for anxiety disorders, depression and eating disorders. PTSD and self-harm data was limited, and did not demonstrate significant effects. Relatively few trials adapted intervention delivery to student-specific concerns, and overall adapted interventions showed no benefit over non-adapted interventions. There was some suggestion that adaptions based on empirical evidence and provision of additional sessions, and transdiagnostic models may yield some benefitsConclusionsInterventions for students show benefit though uncertainty remains around how best to optimise treatment delivery and content specifically for students. It would be beneficial to understand how intervention content which is specific to underlying mechanisms of problems experienced by students as well as more transdiagnostic approaches could further support recovery and prevention of mental health problems while at university.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared