Psychological Consequences Research Articles

Anxiety and depression in cancer patients and survivors in the context of restrictions in contact and oncological care during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Treatment modifications and contact restrictions were common during the COVID-19 pandemic and can be stressors for mental health. There is a lack of studies assessing pandemic-related risk factors for anxiety and depression of cancer patients and survivors systematically in multifactorial models. A total of 2391 participants, mean age 65.5 years, ≤5 years post-diagnosis of either lung, prostate, breast, colorectal cancer, or leukemia/lymphoma, were recruited in 2021 via the Baden-Württemberg Cancer Registry, Germany. Sociodemographic information, pandemic-related treatment modifications, contact restrictions, and anxiety/depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, HADS) were assessed via self-administered questionnaire. Clinical information (diagnosis, stage, and treatment information) was obtained from the cancer registry. Overall, 22% of participants reported oncological care modifications due to COVID-19, mostly in follow-up care and rehabilitation. Modifications of active cancer treatment were reported by 5.8%. Among those, 50.5% had subclinical anxiety and 55.4% subclinical depression (vs. 37.4% and 45.4%, respectively, for unchanged active treatment). Age <60 years, female sex, lung cancer, low income, and contact restrictions to peer support groups or physicians were identified as independent risk factors for anxiety. Risk factors for depression were lung cancer (both sexes), leukemia/lymphoma (females), recurrence or palliative treatment, living alone, low income, and contact restrictions to relatives, physicians, or caregivers. The study demonstrates that changes in active cancer treatment and contact restrictions are associated with impaired mental well-being. The psychological consequences of treatment changes and the importance for cancer patients to maintain regular contact with their physicians should be considered in future responses to threats to public health.

Consequences of Workplace Bullying From Nurses' Perspectives: A Qualitative Descriptive Study in Iran.

The aim of this study is to explore Iranian nurses' experiences regarding the consequences of bullying. A qualitative descriptive study is carried out using conventional content analysis and Granheim and Lundman's method. Data for this study were collected through 12 in-depth, semi-structured individual interviews with nurses employed at a teaching hospital in REDACTED, western Iran. Purposeful sampling was employed until data saturation was achieved. Data management was conducted using MAXQDA software. The participants consisted of 12 nurses, with a mean age of 36.1 ± 8.6 years. Their experiences of workplace bullying were analysed and categorised into a main theme called 'Consequences of Workplace Bullying', with two categories identified as 'Organisational Consequences' and 'Individual Consequences'. The organisational consequences were further elaborated through two subcategories: 'work performance consequences' and 'patient care consequences'. The individual consequences category included subcategories including 'psychosomatic consequences', 'psychological consequences' and 'family consequences'. Workplace bullying among nurses can have negative impacts on patients, nurses and organisations. In order to mitigate these effects, nurse managers can take proactive measures by implementing management strategies and fostering a positive work culture. By addressing the underlying factors and promoting a supportive environment, the adverse consequences of workplace bullying can be reduced or prevented. Yes.

Narrative exposure therapy for the treatment of trauma-related symptoms among adolescent survivors of sex trafficking: A pilot study

Background: India is home to 14 million survivors of human trafficking, with most being trafficked for sexual exploitation. Trafficking constitutes crimes that violate the rights of survivors, and despite its psychological consequences, there is little evidence-based guidance to meet the needs of these individuals. Aim: The current study aimed to examine the outcome of narrative exposure therapy (KIDNET) among adolescent survivors of sex trafficking in improving trauma-related symptoms, along with psychological distress, dissociation, depression, and anxiety. Methods: A pre-post study design was used with 20 adolescent female survivors of trafficking aged 13 to 17 years, with ten participants in the KIDNET group and ten participants in a waitlist control group. Trafficking Victim Identification Tool and Standard Progressive Matrices were administered as screening measures. The Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale for Children and Adolescents, Kessler’s Psychological Distress Scale, Shutdown Dissociation Scale, Patient Health Questionnaire, and Beck Anxiety Inventory were administered as outcome measures. Fourteen sessions of KIDNET were conducted for the clinical group, while sessions were conducted for the control group post delivery of intervention for the clinical group. Results: Findings suggest an overall improvement in the severity of trauma-related symptoms in the KIDNET group, with significant improvement in psychological distress, depression, and anxiety. Conclusion: Results indicate that KIDNET may be a promising and acceptable treatment for adolescent survivors of sex trafficking, and this intervention module may be safely delivered in further randomised controlled trials to ensure that the holistic needs of this vulnerable group are appropriately addressed.

Development and Validation of a Climate Change Version of the Man-Made Disaster-Related Distress Scale (CC-MMDS)

IntroductionClimate change, considered as a pressing man-made disaster, poses a fundamental threat to global health, with significant psychological consequences. However, measurement instruments assessing these consequences of climate change remain limited. This study aimed to address this gap by developing and validating an adapted version of the Man-Made Disaster-Related Distress Scale (MMDS), specifically designed for the assessment of indirect climate change-related psychological consequences. Materials and MethodsThe items of the MMDS were adapted to climate change. The resulting “Climate Change – Man-Made Disaster-Related Distress Scale” (CC-MMDS), comprising 16 items, was validated in an online-based survey in Germany. Initially, 1070 participants were engaged in the survey. ResultsThe data of n = 715 participants was used for analysis. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses revealed a two-factor structure, encompassing “psychological distress” and “change of existing belief systems”, with acceptable to good model fit. The CC-MMDS demonstrated excellent reliability and good validity, with measurement invariance across gender, age, and educational level. DiscussionThis study validated the CC-MMDS, confirming a two-factor structure. The scale demonstrated strong measurement properties, making it a promising standardized instrument for assessing climate change-related distress. ConclusionWith its strong psychometric properties and efficient administration, the CC-MMDS offers valuable insights for research and can aid mental health providers in identifying and supporting individuals impacted by climate change.

Lived experiences of working-age polytrauma patients in Germany - A qualitative Analysis

BackgroundSurvivors of a major trauma experience a range of difficulties in relation to the reduction in physical, psychosocial, and cognitive functions, which can result in a reduced health-related quality of life. This study aims to explore lived experiences of major trauma survivors in the German healthcare system. MethodsSemi-structured exploratory interviews were performed with nine major trauma survivors (18–55 years; Injury Severity Score ≥16). For exploratory analyses, an artificial intelligence-based coding software was used. Further, results were clustered by using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health framework (ICF). ResultsCommunication was one of the major topics concerning amongst others diverting opinions between different healthcare disciplines and a general lack of information. The participants showed a high demand for a contact person. Furthermore, social support was essential during recovery for those interviewed. Social network was not only important as emotional and physical support but also for overcoming of gaps in the healthcare system. The support by employers and colleagues seemed to be beneficial for our participants in relation to returning to work. Further, psychological consequences of trauma, and that mobility is a key factor for quality of life, self-efficacy and return to work were discussed. DiscussionThe qualitative analyses highlight several topics such as communication, burden of sickness, support systems that the participants mentioned as important along their journey through the German healthcare system during recovery. Through the ICF model the interplay of certain components that influenced the outcome of the major trauma survivors was visualized. ImplicationsThese results might offer a deepened understanding of modifiable components of a patient pathway in recovery process such as improvements of patient communication, provision of a contact person and others.

Post-COVID pandemic: The new normal and aftermath

ABSTRACT Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unparalleled worldwide transformations, impacting all facets of human existence, including health systems, economies, societal norms, and individual behaviors. Aim: The goal is to comprehend the enduring alterations in public health strategies, economic recuperation processes, changes in work and education paradigms, and the psychological consequences for populations globally. Methods and Materials: This analysis uses a multidisciplinary approach by incorporating data from healthcare studies, economic reports, educational research, and psychological assessments. It aims to offer a comprehensive perspective on the world after the pandemic. Results: The findings suggest that the “New Normal” encompasses a wide range of changes, such as a greater dependence on digital technology, a transition toward remote work and learning, substantial modifications in global supply chains, and a revised outlook on health and wellness. The potential long-term consequences of these changes indicate that some may provide opportunities for innovation and expansion, whereas others present challenges that necessitate strategic planning and policy interventions. Conclusion: The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic presents a critical moment for global leaders, policymakers, and individuals to navigate the complexities of a transformed world, emphasizing the need for resilience, adaptability, and a renewed commitment to collective well-being.

Autistic children and their parents in the context of war: Preliminary findings.

While existing literature on the intersection of trauma and autism is limited, emerging evidence suggests heightened vulnerability of autistic children to the psychological consequences of traumatic events, including an elevated risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Additionally, parents of autistic children often experience elevated levels of negative emotional states, compared to parents of typically developing children. This study investigates the impact of terrorism and war on autistic and non-autistic children and their parents, presenting preliminary results from the initial data collection phase of a year-long longitudinal investigation of the experience of autistic children and their parents following Hamas' 7 October 2023 attack on Israel. Data gathered within 30days of the initial attack reveal that both autistic and non-autistic children exhibited clinically significant post-traumatic stress symptoms, with autistic children demonstrating a more pronounced manifestation. Moreover, parents of autistic children reported significantly higher levels of depression, anxiety, and stress in the aftermath of the events, compared to an independent cohort of parents of autistic children assessed prior to the crisis. These results underscore the heightened susceptibility of autistic children to post-traumatic stress and the unique challenges confronted by their parents during times of conflict. The study highlights the imperative for tailored support services for autistic children and their families amidst traumatic incidents and stresses the need for further research in comparable contexts globally.

Fostering resilient recovery: An intervention for disaster-affected teachers in Indonesia

Disasters leave survivors at heighted risk of negative psychological consequences. Teachers require post-disaster psychosocial support, given their added responsibility for supporting their students' recovery. However, alongside coping with their own mental health, teachers often lack training to support students psychologically. This study addresses this gap by detailing an intervention designed to foster resilient recovery among secondary school teachers in Central Sulawesi, Indonesia, to enhance their ability to support both themselves and their students after a devastating earthquake/tsunami.Teachers (n = 37) from three disaster-affected schools participated in a one-day workshop exploring collective strengths and strategies to develop their own and their students’ post-disaster resilience, featuring the Tree of Life activity. Impact was evaluated using a pre-post intervention design. Findings from a three month follow up demonstrated significant improvements across various resilience-related measures, including personal resilience, community resilience, social support, adaptive coping strategies, psychological help seeking, earthquake anxiety, post-traumatic stress, complex post-traumatic stress and fatalism. Open-ended survey responses indicated that most teachers reporting subjective improvements in their own recovery and their capacity to support students psychologically. This study emphasises the importance of creating teacher interventions underpinned by disaster recovery theory, which offer practical skills to foster post-disaster psychosocial recovery. While the intervention exhibits promising initial results, future research would benefit from an evaluation using a randomised control group.

Sleep Is a Human Right, and Its Deprivation Is Torture.

Sleep is integral to human health and well-being; it is recognized as a fundamental right by international bodies. Nevertheless, deliberate sleep deprivation is frequently employed as a form of torture, violating the right to health. Legal cases such as LeMaire v Maass, Ireland v UK, and Huertas v Secretary Pennsylvania Dept of Corrections illustrate the varying interpretations of sleep deprivation as torture or cruel and unusual punishment. Ambiguity in domestic and international legal definitions underscores the need for collaboration between health and legal professionals. Clinicians can offer expertise about physiological and psychological consequences of sleep deprivation, which informs what legally counts as torture. This commentary explores the intersection of sleep deprivation, human rights, and the role of medical professionals in addressing, identifying, and preventing sleep deprivation as a means of coercion and abuse.

Understanding the impact of domestic violence on children's mental health and exploring effective intervention strategies

Exposure to domestic violence in the home can have profound and long-lasting effects on children's mental health and development. An extensive body of research has demonstrated the links between witnessing domestic abuse and increased risks of psychological disorders such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder in affected children. However, not all children exposed to violence experience negative outcomes, and interventions can help mitigate harm. This research aims to synthesize what is known about the multifaceted psychological consequences of domestic violence exposure for children and identify effective support strategies. A comprehensive literature review was undertaken to understand prevalence rates, forms of abuse, and potential moderating and mediating factors. Key findings indicate that while abuse types, including physical, emotional, verbal, and financial violence, can all impact children's mental health, factors like age, gender, resilience characteristics, and social support networks influence outcomes. Trauma-focused therapies, parent-child interaction programs, play-based interventions, and school-based supports show promise as evidence-based approaches. Recommendations target collaboration between policymakers, practitioners, and researchers to strengthen legislation, implement multidisciplinary treatment, and conduct further longitudinal studies. The goal is to illuminate this critical issue and guide the development and evaluation of integrated systems of care focused on child wellness and family violence prevention.

Uncertainties of healthcare professionals and informal caregivers in rare diseases: A systematic review

Uncertainties, defined as metacognitive awareness of ignorance, are an essential part of medicine. Consequently, healthcare professionals (HCPs) as well as informal caregivers face them inevitably. Depending on the interpretation of uncertainties and the existence of available resources to cope with them, uncertainties might have serious consequences. Studies showed higher burnout-rates and reduced psychosocial well-being of HCPs and informal caregivers. Especially rare diseases are linked with a variety of uncertainties, as knowledge about specific diseases is often limited which might result in a higher burden of both groups. This review aimed at summarizing studies dealing with HCPs' and informal caregivers’ uncertainties in the context of rare diseases. We searched five databases and screened 11.236 records for title/abstract and 105 records for full-text. Finally, 24 studies were subjected to quality assessment and data extraction using narrative synthesis. Five studies focused on HCPs, 19 on informal caregivers. Results were clustered using an existing taxonomy differentiating three categories of uncertainty (scientific, practical and personal) and issues, specifying particular uncertain situations or circumstances. Only five of the included studies investigated the perspective of HCPs, indicating a research gap of the topic within this group. Reports were mostly limited to practical and scientific uncertainties. Concerning scientific uncertainties, information procurement showed up as a special facet in rare diseases. Informal caregivers reported the whole variety of scientific, practical and personal uncertainties, leading to psychological consequences such as fear, confusion and worry. This review provides an overview of categories and assigned issues of uncertainties HCPs and informal caregivers experience in relation to rare diseases and psychological consequences. Results can be used in the development of trainings, to teach effective coping strategies when dealing with uncertainties or offers of psychosocial support.

Структура психологических последствий контртеррористической деятельности: дифференцированный подход к реабилитации

Introduction. The article deals with the structure of psychological consequences affecting the officers of internal affairs bodies who took part in the counter-terrorist operation (as part of combined units) in the territory of the Chechen Republic. The relevance of the research is determined by the necessity of substantiation of indications for a differentiated approach to medical and psychological rehabilitation of the law enforcement officers having performed service and combat tasks in special conditions. Methods. The research involved 110 officers of internal affairs bodies, average age 29,38±6,5 years; average period of being in the zone of armed conflict 146,9±79,8 days; number of missions 1,41±0,65. Research methods: anonymous questionnaire, standardised multifactor method of personality research, 16-factor personality questionnaire of R. Kettell, accentuation type identification test of H. Smishek, projective technique ‘Hand-test’, drawing association test of S. Rosenzweig, traumatic stress intensity questionnaire of I. O. Kotenev. Statistical processing of the results was carried out by methods of descriptive and factor analysis (method of principal components and varimax-rotation of the factor structure). Results. The author found six factors that explain 81.89 % of the total dispersion of traits in the structure of psychological consequences of counter-terrorist activity. Two of them - ‘posttraumatic’ (21.4 %) and ‘stuck-posttraumatic’ (7.57 %) factors - include symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder, as well as predictors contributing to its prolonged flow. Signs of ‘subthreshold’ (prenosological) posttraumatic stress disorder, in the form of characteristic personality traits were identified: pessimism, psychasthenia, neurotic control, rigidity, impulsiveness, aggressiveness, cyclothymia, emotional ambivalence, ‘getting stuck’ on affect, frustration fixation on self-protection, anxiety, suspiciousness, sensitivity, guilt, social introversion, passivity, egocentricity. They are part of five out of six factors (‘posttraumatic’, ‘unproductive frustration response’, ‘demonstrative-neurotic’, ‘rigid-affective’, ‘stuck-posttraumatic’) and need both timely and diverse measures of medical and psychological rehabilitation. Psychological peculiarities included in the ‘hyperthymic-conform’ factor (12.06% of the variance) can be compensated by psychological correction. The author analysed foreign and national methods of psychological rehabilitation of posttraumatic stress disorder, identified psychotherapeutic ‘targets’ of influence and proposed measures of psychological rehabilitation of internal affairs officers with regard to the factor structure of the consequences.

Research on the Psychological Impact of the Policy Practice of Preventing Minors from Indulging in Online Games in China

With the expansion of online games, there is a relatively more severe issue involving minors excessive use of games. To this end, the Chinese government has issued several policy initiatives that are intended to stop minors from getting hooked on online games. This study aims to examine the psychological consequences of these policy practices on children. Through literature review, and case study, the changes in minors mental health status before and after the implementation of the policy were assessed, and the role of family, school and social environment in the implementation of the policy was also examined. This research identified that these policies have successfully limited the overuse of online games among minors to a certain extent but at the same time, it has introduced new psychological issues like anxiety and social isolation among the young people. Also, the issues that parents and educators encounter in the process of policy execution are also worth considering. Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations, such as introducing flexible time limits and regular review of the policy, are made in order to enhance policy implementation towards the improvement of the mental health of minors.

Moral injury and mental health outcomes in nurses: A systematic review.

Introduction: Moral injury involves the adverse psychological, biological, spiritual, behavioural, and social consequences of actions that violate moral values. It can lead to anxiety, depression, burnout, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Nurses, who often face ethical dilemmas, are particularly vulnerable. Despite its significance, the relationship between moral injury and mental health outcomes in nurses remains underexplored. Aim: This systematic review aimed to describe the associations among moral injury, anxiety, depression, and quality of life in nurses. Methods: The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023438731) and was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. A literature search was performed in December 2023 across PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science. Peer-reviewed primary research involving nurses, published in English or Italian, without time restrictions, was considered eligible. The risk of bias and the quality of evidence were assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist and the GRADE approach. Results: Out of 4730 articles identified, eight met the inclusion criteria. The analysis revealed significant positive associations between moral injury, anxiety, and depression, along with a significant negative association with quality of life. Conclusion: These findings highlight the need for healthcare systems to implement strategies that mitigate moral injury among nurses. Future research should prioritize longitudinal studies to explore causal relationships and develop targeted interventions. Additionally, standardizing the concept and measurements of moral injury is crucial for enhancing the comparability and understanding of this phenomenon.

Exploring The Role of Shirodhara In Alleviating Post-Covid Psychological Symptoms.

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted global mental health, leading to an increased prevalence of psychological symptoms such as - anxiety, depression, and insomnia. This review explores the potential role of Shirodhara, an ancient Ayurvedic therapy, in alleviating post-COVID psychological symptoms. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, up to May 2024, using terms such as “Shirodhara,” “post-COVID,” “insomnia,” “anxiety,” “stress,” “oil dripping therapy,” and “depression.” The findings indicate that Shirodhara may significantly promote mental well-being through its calming effects. Despite the promising results, further research, including Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), is needed to validate these findings and integrate ‘Shirodhara therapy’ into mainstream mental health treatment protocols. Tackling the psychological consequences of COVID-19 necessitates a multifaceted strategy, with Shirodhara potentially being key to improving the well-being of those impacted.

Internalized poverty-related stigma and interpersonal violence among women living with HIV in the US

Background: Interpersonal violence (IPV) affects half of women living with HIV (WLHIV) in the US and has important consequences for mental health and HIV outcomes. While different types of stigmas (e.g., HIV- or sexual identity-related) are associated with increased risk of IPV, the relationship between poverty-related stigma and IPV is unclear, even though poverty frequently co-occurs with IPV. Methods: Data from up to four annual visits (2016-2020) were collected from 374 WLHIV enrolled in a sub-study of the Women’s Interagency HIV Study (WIHS; now known as MACS/WIHS Combined Cohort Study) at four sites across the US. A validated measure of the perceived stigma of poverty was used, along with questions on recent experiences of IPV. We used a mixed-effects model to assess the association between internalized poverty stigma and IPV. Results: The unadjusted model with internalized poverty-stigma and recent IPV as independent and dependent variables, respectively, suggested that the two were associated (prevalence ratio 1.29 [95% CI 1.02-1.62, p=0.033]). After adjusting for income and education, we found an independent association between internalized poverty-related stigma and recent IPV, with a prevalence ratio of 1.35 (95% CI 1.07-1.71, p=0.011). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that reducing the psychological consequences of poverty may better situate WLHIV to escape or avoid IPV. The usefulness of screening WLHIV who may be experiencing poverty-related stigma for IPV should be investigated. Interventions that address internalized poverty-related stigma may provide an avenue for reducing the harms caused by IPV in addition to interventions aiming to reduce violence itself.

Возможности применения рефлексотерапии в реабилитации военнослужащих

The rehabilitation of military personnel who are injured or suffer from the psychological and physical consequences of hostilities is one of the key tasks of military medicine. Recently, reflexology methods attract more and more attention as an effective addition to traditional approaches. The purpose of the review is to consider the main mechanisms of action and the possibility of applying reflexology methods in the rehabilitation of military personnel. The article presents scientific research and sources confirming the effectiveness of acupuncture in the comprehensive restoration of the physical performance of conscripts, when stopping acute and chronic pain syndromes, including acupuncture on the battlefield (Battlefield Acupuncture), clinical manifestations of post -traumatic stress disorders, as well as in military surgery and traumatology. Reflexotherapy methods have a wide range of opportunities in the rehabilitation of military personnel and can have a significant impact on the well -being and quality of life of veterans and in military service.

Microbial Dysbiosis in the Skin Microbiome and Its Psychological Consequences.

The homeostasis of the skin microbiome can be disrupted by both extrinsic and intrinsic factors, leading to a state of dysbiosis. This imbalance has been observed at the onset of persistent skin diseases that are closely linked to mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. This narrative review explores recent findings on the relationship between the skin microbiome and the pathophysiology of specific skin disorders, including acne vulgaris, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and wound infections. Additionally, it examines the psychological impact of these skin disorders, emphasizing their effect on patients' quality of life and their association with significant psychological consequences, such as anxiety, depression, stress, and suicidal ideation in the most severe cases.

The psychological consequences of 6 February 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes

The psychological consequences of 6 February 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes

Understanding the Effect of Problems and Consequences Caused by the COVID-19 Outbreak on the Clinical Activities of Speech-language Pathologists

Background and Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic, as a new phenomenon, caused many problems for speech-language pathologists and faced them with various crises. The aim of this study was to review the experiences of speech-language pathologists with the problems and consequences of the pandemic and their effects on their clinical activities. Methods: A qualitative study of interpretive phenomenological analysis was conducted and 21 participants were selected non-randomly using maximum variation technique. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect information. After collecting the data, coding was started using MAXQDA software. Then, the data were analyzed by thematic analysis method and main themes emerged. Finally, the scientific accuracy of the data was measured by the method of Lincoln and Guba. Results: Ten main themes, including infection, financial consequences, negative consequences of following health protocols, psychological consequences, consequences for clients, problems created in the workplace, problems created by clients, educational problems, lack of facilities, and opportunity creation were extracted, which represented therapists’ experiences with clinical work during the pandemic. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic created many negative and sometimes positive consequences for speech-language pathologists as well as many other professions, which led to changes and new experiences in the former routine of these therapists.