Psychological Stress Research Articles

The mediating and moderating role of coping on occupational stress and psychological well-being among the construction workforce in South Africa: the psychological stress theory approach

Purpose The purpose of this cross-sectional study is to examine the direct relationships between occupational stress (OccS), coping and well-being (WB). The study further examined the mediating and moderating roles of adaptive coping and maladaptive coping on OccS and WB among the construction workforce in South Africa. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from construction companies in South Africa, and the sample were conveniently selected based on proximity and familiarity with the researcher. A total of 201 subjects were suitable for conducting the study after data were screened. A quantitative research approach was used, and data were analysed in IBM SPSS v28 for descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis. The reliability and validity of the constructs were measured and met the minimum thresholds. Furthermore, IBM AMOS v28 was used for confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling to test the hypothesised relationships. Process macro v4.2 was also used to test the mediation and moderation relationships. Psychological well-being was measured using the validated WHO-5 Well-being Index Measure. Findings The finding of the study revealed that subjective well-being was good, with a score of 77.97 out of 100. The finding also revealed that there were no significant relationships for the hypothesised mediation relationships between either adaptive coping and maladaptive coping as mediators between OccS and WB, although there was a partial mediation relationship when both maladaptive and adaptive coping mediated the relationship between OccS and WB. Furthermore, adaptive coping acted as a moderator between OccS and WB. Research limitations/implications The study only focuses on the mediation and moderation relationships between OccS and subjective WB. Adaptive coping was limited to social support and active coping, while WB was limited to quality of life. The study is quantitative and suffers from the limitations associated with this type of research. Furthermore, while sound measures were used to ensure validity and reliability, the study relied on the opinions of the respondents, and opinions may not necessarily present facts. Practical implications This study highlighted some of the effects of coping on mental well-being of the South African construction workforce. The findings provide insight to some areas of concern relating to OccS management to improve the overall WB of the workforce. Social implications The construction industry relies on a healthy and active workforce. To ensure sustainability of the workers and to ensure that each worker returns home safe to their family, it is important to address workers mental health especially at work where workers spend majority of their time. This is important in an industry that employs the poor and marginalised. Originality/value This study addressed both the knowledge and population gap. Majority of the study have focused on construction professionals who constitute about 30% of the entire workforce. The current study examined stress across all professions. Furthermore, the study used the psychological stress theory to examine coping and its impact on the workforce.

Cu-miRNA stress relievers.

Cu-miRNA stress relievers.

Subclinical imaging activity in multiple sclerosis patients during war-related psychological stress.

Psychological stress has been suggested as a contributory factor in the onset and progression of multiple sclerosis (MS). The 7 October 2023 terrorist attacks in Israel caused significant psychological stress, providing a unique context to study its impact on MS activity. This study aims to assess the impact of war-related psychological stress on MS activity using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and clinical follow-up. This observational retrospective case-control study includes 93 patients with MS (pwMS) who had routine annual MRI scans from three periods (7 October 2021 to 7 January 2022; 7 October 2022 to 7 January 2023; and 7 October 2023 to 7 January 2024). Data were collected from medical records and MRI scans at Hadassah Medical Center. MRI scans were classified as active if new or enlarging T2 lesions and/or enhancing T1 lesions were present. MRI activity significantly increased among pwMS during the first 3 months of the war compared to the corresponding period in the preceding year (11/93 vs. 23/93, P = 0.0139), with an OR of 4.0 (95% confidence interval: 1.29-16.442). pwMS with an EDSS score ≥4 showed a significant increase in MRI activity (P = 0.045), whereas no significant increase was observed in patients with an EDSS score ≤3.5 (P = 0.23). Additionally, MRI activity increased later during the war compared to the previous year (P < 0.0001). This study provides evidence of increased MRI-detected disease activity in pwMS during periods of war-related psychological stress. Our findings highlight the importance of considering psychological stress in MS management. Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential for increased disease activity in pwMS during extreme stress and may consider more frequent monitoring, including MRI scans, or treatment adjustments during such periods.

Impact of Chronic Moderate Psychological Stress on Skin Aging: Exploratory Clinical Study and Cellular Functioning.

Skin is continuously exposed to environmental external and internal factors, including psychological stress (PS). PS has been reported to trigger different dermatoses such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, vitiligo, alopecia areata, and acne through the release of cortisol and epinephrine. To clinically explore PS-induced measurable skin aging signs in subjects with moderate versus mild chronic PS, and to investigate the effect of chronic PS on DNA damage at cellular level. In vitro stress tests with cortisol and epinephrine, and with cortisol only on extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis, as well as on normal human skin fibroblast and keratinocyte functioning, including skin barrier and wound healing were performed. Moderately stressed subjects in the context of the clinical study had a significantly decreased antioxidant potential and impacted skin barrier integrity, as well as significantly increased signs of microrelief alterations (skin texture and fine lines) reaching an increased severity of about 32.9%. At a cellular level, DNA integrity, ECM synthesis, wound healing, and skin barrier parameters were impacted by increased stress hormone levels. The clinical exploratory studies presented herewith, as well as the study of cell functioning under stress, have provided evidence that chronic PS significantly affects skin homeostasis and triggers skin aging.

Burnout: a comprehensive review

AbstractBurnout has been the focus of extensive scientific research. The World Health Organization officially recognized burnout as an occupational phenomenon, defined as a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that remains unmanaged and characterized by three dimensions: exhaustion, cynicism, and inefficacy. Existing literature highlights limitations in current measurement instruments for diagnostic purposes. These tools often yield scores that overlap with other conditions such as fatigue, anxiety, and depression. Chronic exposure to high job demands and low job resources emerges as the primary trigger for burnout. While individual characteristics (such as neuroticism) may increase susceptibility, specific personality traits associated with higher risk remain unclear. Burnout has adverse effects on both individuals and organizations. Typical interventions focus on stress relief and coping strategies to manage high job demands, but their effectiveness diminishes over time. Evidence from organizational interventions suggests that improving employees’ working conditions can reduce burnout risk. Combined interventions offer promise by creating a healthy work environment while empowering employees to handle occasional stress. Social partners should advocate for support in researching burnout, aiming for a clear diagnosis, effective treatment, and preventive measures to mitigate psychosocial risks in the workplace.Practical Relevance: The findings of this article highlight the importance of addressing both job demands and job resources to mitigate burnout in organizational settings. Implementing interventions that improve working conditions and provide adequate support can significantly reduce burnout risk and enhance employee well-being. Organizations should prioritize creating a healthy work environment and empowering employees with the necessary resources to manage workload effectively.

Validation and efficacy of a tele-yoga intervention for improving psychological stress, mental health and sleep difficulties of stressed adults diagnosed with long COVID: a prospective, multi-center, open-label single-arm study

The objective of this study was to validate and test the efficacy of a 16-week tele-yoga intervention for perceived stress, anxiety, depression, and insomnia in individuals who had had COVID-19 infection in the previous year, and had reported moderately high levels of psychological stress (PSS ≥14). 25 and 50-min versions of the program were developed. They were then validated using Lawshe’s content validity ratio after obtaining feedback from 20 yoga therapy experts. The safety and efficacy of the two programs were subsequently tested in a prospective, multicenter, open-label single-arm study. Eighty-six adults (18 male, 68 female) were recruited from two tertiary mental healthcare institutions, 48 in NIMHANS, Bengaluru; and 38 in SCARF, Chennai. Participants were assessed at weeks zero, 4, and 16 using validated tools. Data were analyzed using a Mixed Model, Intention to Treat approach. After week 16, 31 subjects remained in the trial and continued to practice yoga without any side effects. Subjects who adhered in the trial had significantly higher levels of baseline anxiety and depression as compared to subjects who dropped out. Results at week 4 included significant reductions in levels of perceived stress, anxiety, and insomnia; improvements were maintained at week 16. Correlations between number of yoga sessions and post-intervention PSS scores were negative (r = −0.49), and significant (p&amp;lt; 0.05). Both tele-yoga programs proved safe, useful tools to counteract perceived stress, anxiety and insomnia. Future trials should explore the utility of tele-yoga as a tool to enhance well-being and manage stress.

Impact of Personal Protective Equipment Use on Stress and Psychological Well-Being Among Firefighters: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

This study evaluated the individual and psychosocial impacts of personal protective equipment on firefighters by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis. While PPE is necessary for the protection of firefighters, it can also lead to a number of challenges, which may be both physical and psychological. This assessment incorporates insights from several studies that discuss the factors of stress related to the use of PPE by firefighters. The key aspects of the assessment include the adverse effects of overheating, the restriction of free movements, the inability to speak normally, and various other factors that increase stress. Studies have revealed that the use of PPE increases physical and mental stress levels by 10–25%, which increases overall anxiety by 35% and stress levels by 20–30%. The results suggest that the use of PPE is correlated with heightened levels of both physical and mental stress, leading to a 35% increase in anxiety and a 20–30% increase in stress. This study highlights the need to adopt a multidisciplinary approach to address and reduce the effects of PPE use on stress. Policy directions are aimed at improving PPE design, applying stress prevention programs, and controlling organizational strategies to protect firefighters’ safety and well-being.

‘Coping in practice’: a qualitative exploration of psychological resilience among paediatric physiotherapists

Purpose The importance of improving psychological resilience among healthcare workers to protect individuals, support the delivery of quality patient care, and safeguard health system functioning is well documented. While research has explored many aspects of psychological wellbeing across various healthcare worker populations, it is unclear how physiotherapists view and experience psychological resilience and stress in the workplace. This study aimed to explore how paediatric physiotherapists described resilience, how stress in the workplace affected their ability to provide services, and the methods used to cope with pressures and stress. Methods A cross-sectional, qualitative approach was adopted. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 paediatric physiotherapists working in the Republic of Ireland. The transcripts were analysed using a deductive content analysis approach. Results Five themes arose from the interviews. These were ‘The Nature of Resilience’(summarised many physiotherapist’s perceptions that resilience was ‘coping’ with difficulties in the workplace), ‘Challenges of the Profession’ (described parts of their roles as physiotherapists that contributed to stress)’, Job-Related Gratification’(described the aspects of the role that strengthens resilience), ‘Resilience Strategies (Protective Practices)’(described the actions and activities used by physiotherapists to cope with stressors in the workplace), and ‘Resilience Strategies (Attitudes)’(summarised the attitudes used to safeguard against workplace stress). Conclusions This study evaluated paediatric physiotherapists’ experiences of resilience from a personal and organisational perspective. This study suggests this population shares its understanding of resilience with other healthcare professions. The findings of this research highlights the necessity for additional investigation into methods used by paediatric physiotherapists to cope with workplace stressors.

Unhealthy Lifestyle Contributes to Negative Mental Health and Poor Quality of Life in Young University Students

Background: A negative lifestyle is reported to be related to poor mental health and quality of life (QOL). However, there is little information on this in university students. The objective of the present study was to investigate the association between mental health (i.e., anxiety, depression symptoms and stress), QOL, SWLS and lifestyle parameters (i.e., PA, sleep duration, ST and food habits) among Chilean university students and then to determine the differences in mental health, QOL, SWLS and lifestyle parameters according to gender. Methods: This cross-sectional study included a total of 211 university students (128 females and 83 males) aged 18–28 years. Mental health, QOL and lifestyle were measured through validated questionnaires. Results: Bad food habits (lowest score in the food survey) were linked to anxiety (2.3 [0.22–4.36], p = 0.03), depressive symptoms (3.75 [1.54–5.9], p = 0.001) and stress (2.24 [0.31–4.17], p = 0.023). Furthermore, &lt;6 h of sleep was related to poorer mental health (13.5 [7.6–19.5], p = 0.001), anxiety (4.2 [2.0–6.4], p &lt; 0.001), depressive symptoms (5.5 [3.2–7.9], p &lt; 0.001) and stress (3.8 [1.8–5.9], p &lt; 0.001). In addition, ≥4 h of ST was linked positively to negative mental health (8.3 [2.86–13.7], p = 0.003), depressive symptoms (3.45 [1.47–5.4], p = 0.001) and anxiety (3.2 [1.05–5.4], p = 0.004). Non-physical activity was related to the scores for anxiety (2.6 [0.20–5.0], p = 0.030), depression (2.7 [0.009–5.3], p = 0.049) and stress (2.4 [0.12–4.7], p = 0.039). Conclusions: this study showed that unhealthy lifestyle factors (i.e., insufficient sleep, lack of PA and prolonged ST) were strongly associated with poorer mental health and QOL in university students. These findings highlight the importance of addressing these aspects of lifestyle in intervention and health promotion programs aimed at young university students in order to improve their mental health and overall QOL.

Multimodal examination of daily stress rhythms in chronic Cannabis users.

Chronic cannabis users frequently report stress relief as their primary reason for use. The endocannabinoid system is involved in the neuroendocrine stress response, and diurnal cortisol rhythms may be disrupted in chronic cannabis users. The objectives were to determine whether cannabis users demonstrate disruptions in diurnal stress rhythms and examine the acute effects of cannabis on stress-related outcomes in cannabis users' natural environments. Eighty-two participants (39 cannabis users, 43 non-users) collected saliva samples to quantify cortisol concentrations and provided subjective stress ratings at 8 time points throughout the day. They wore a medical-grade wearable device for 24h that recorded physiological indicators of stress (heart rate variability, electrodermal activity). Cannabis users collected additional saliva samples before and after cannabis use to examine acute effects of cannabis use. Cannabis users exhibited significant dysregulations in diurnal cortisol rhythms, including a blunted cortisol awakening response, flattened diurnal cortisol slope, and elevated afternoon cortisol concentrations. There were no differences in diurnal heart rate variability or electrodermal activity except for elevated evening heart rate in cannabis users. Finally, there were significant decreases in cortisol, subjective stress, and electrodermal activity following acute cannabis use in cannabis users' natural environment. These results provide evidence of dysregulated diurnal cortisol rhythms in cannabis users that were related to later waking times and acute stress-relieving properties of cannabis use in naturalistic environments. Future research should examine the direction of the relationship between cannabis use and diurnal cortisol rhythms and potential implications for other psychological disorders.

Teacher Educators’ Mental Stress towards Online Teaching in West Bengal, India

The study aimed to find out the mental stress of teacher educators towards online teaching in respect to their gender and type of institutions. Descriptive survey method was employed for the study. 200 teacher educators were selected as sample by random sampling from 29 different universities and colleges of West Bengal, including government and private institutions. Among the selected samples, 120 were male and 80 were female, while 103 teacher educators were from government institutions and 97 from self-financed institutions. Data were collected using “ICT Scale on Mental Stress”. Data were analyzed by percentage analysis and independent samples t-test. Results revealed that 40% teacher educators faced high mental stress towards using ICT in online teaching. Further the results revealed that female teacher educators faced more mental stress than their male counterparts. Teacher educators of private colleges showed more mental stress than the teacher educators of government institutions. Therefore, rigorous training on online teaching can be recommended for teacher educators.

Triggering type and long-term survival following ST segment elevation-myocardial infarction treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention.

Physical and emotional stress are recognized triggers of acute coronary syndromes, including ST segment elevation-myocardial infarction (STEMI). We have previously shown that identifiable triggers precede symptoms in over one-third of STEMI patients and inversely correlate with the extent of coronary artery disease (CAD). This study aims to investigate the association between trigger type (physical vs. emotional) and long-term mortality in STEMI patients treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This retrospective, single-center observational study included all patients admitted with an STEMI diagnosis from January 2008 to December 2013. Physical and emotional triggers were identified retrospectively from patient records. Mortality data were obtained from the Israeli Ministry of Health. Of 1345 consecutive STEMI patients treated with primary PCI, mortality data were available for 1267 patients (median age: 61 years). A trigger preceding symptoms onset was identified in 36.5% of patients, with 85% experiencing physical stress and 15% emotional stress. Triggered STEMI patients tended to be younger with fewer comorbidities and lower incidence of multiple vessel CAD compared with nontriggered patients. Notably, emotionally triggered STEMI patients exhibited improved long-term survival compared with those without emotional triggers or with physical triggers. predictor of enhanced long-term survival post-PCI compared with physical triggering. Emotional triggering was identified as an independent. Patients with emotionally triggered STEMI showed less extensive CAD and improved long-term survival following PCI compared with those with physically triggered STEMI. These findings highlight the importance of considering both the presence and type of trigger in the management of STEMI patients and their long-term prognosis.

Therapeutic applications of eucalyptus essential oils.

Eucalyptus essential oils (EEOs) have gained significant attention recently anticipated to their broad range of prospective benefits in various biological applications. They have been proven to have strong antibacterial properties against a variety of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This makes them valuable in combating infections and supporting overall hygiene. The active compounds present in these oils can help alleviate inflammation, making them valuable in addressing inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, respiratory ailments, and skin disorders. Respiratory health benefits are another prominent aspect of EEOs. Inhalation of these oils can help promote clear airways, relieve congestion, and ease symptoms of respiratory conditions like coughs, colds, and sinusitis. They are often utilized in inhalation therapies and chest rubs. They can be used topically or in massage oils to alleviate muscle and joint pain. Furthermore, these oils have shown potential in supporting wound healing. Their antimicrobial activity helps prevent infection, while their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties contribute to reducing inflammation and pain associated with wounds. In aromatherapy, EEOs are renowned for their invigorating and uplifting qualities, promoting mental clarity, relaxation, and stress relief. Overall, EEOs hold great promise in biological applications, offering a natural and versatile approach to promote health and well-being. Continued research and exploration of their therapeutic potential will further unveil their benefits and broaden their applications in various fields.

Prevalence, Characteristics and Risk Factors of Migraine Headache Among Students in Horus University-Egypt: A Cross- Sectional Study

Background: Migraine is a common neurological impairment with a significant disease burden. A number of different factors can trigger migraine attacks as anxiety, stress, skipped meals and irregular sleep pattern. Objectives: This study was done to estimate the prevalence of migraine and to determine its characteristics in students of Horus University, Egypt. Methods: A cross-sectional study was done utilizing a self-administered questionnaire. The study included 1339 students. Migraine-related quality of life and disability were evaluated utilizing Migraine Specific Quality of life Questionnaire (MSQ) as well as Migraine Disability Assessment Scale (MIDAS) respectively. Results: Migraine headaches affected 24% of the population. The most frequent migraine triggers were mental stress, exertion, sleep disturbance and prolonged mobile use (74%, 72.7%, 68% and 55.8% respectively). Being a female, in the middle academic years and having low academic degrees were significant predictors of migraine among university students. Regarding migraine students, disability was significantly higher among females and students who don’t live with their families. Besides, their quality of life was significantly low among males, nonmedical students, students with low academic degrees and those with irregular physical exercise. Conclusion: The high prevalence of migraines among college students has a detrimental effect on their quality of life and causes a major disability.

The relationship between distress tolerance and life satisfaction among young adults in Saudi Arabia

PurposeThis study examined the relationship between Distress Tolerance, defined as the individual’s ability to withstand psychological stress or endure negative emotions, and Life Satisfaction, the cognitive component of the individual’s subjective wellbeing, among Saudi young adults aged 20–30. The study aimed to understand the overall scores of distress tolerance, life satisfaction, and gender differences in these variables.MethodsOnline questionnaires were distributed to 348 participants selected based on inclusion/exclusion criteria, using self-report scales: the Distress Tolerance Scale (DTS) and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). The sample consisted of 77 males and 271 females, with a mean age of 1.8793 years (SD = 0.81931). Data were analyzed using the SPSS program.ResultsThe findings supported our hypotheses that (1) Saudi young adults have high overall scores of distress tolerance and life satisfaction, (2) there is a significant positive correlation between distress tolerance and life satisfaction, (3) there are no significant differences between males and females regarding overall distress tolerance and life satisfaction levels, although (4) a significant gender difference was found in the emotional regulation subscale of DTS. A linear regression analysis also showed that distress tolerance significantly predicts life satisfaction.ConclusionDistress tolerance and life satisfaction are positively associated among Saudi young adults, with no significant gender differences in overall levels. However, differences in specific subscales, such as emotional regulation, warrant further investigation. These findings provide valuable insights for interventions to enhance this population’s wellbeing.

The Role of Psychological Resilience, Coping Mechanisms and Locus of Control in Managing Students' Perceived Stress during Exams

Abstract: With this study we provide conclusive evidence on the importance of psychological resilience, coping mechanisms, self-esteem and locus of control for optimal adaptation in situations of intense psychological stress, such as the stress perceived by students in exam situations. The data reveal that out of 120 students included in the study group, 29 students, i.e., 33.2 ⁒ were in the high stress zone and 4 students, i.e., 3.3 ⁒ were in the dangerously high stress zone, which can be explained by the poor functioning of some coping mechanisms and psychological resilience. For example, self-blame as a variable of coping mechanisms has a negative influence on the level of perceived stress and explains 49.72% of the stress level. Also, by comparison, some variables play a positive role in stress management and explain in different proportions the level of perceived stress, such as perspective-taking (35.64%), positive reappraisal (27.64%), positive refocusing (20.25%) or self-esteem (12.33%). The study also revealed that females better manage specific manifestations of perceived stress in exam situations, proving that they more easily establish interpersonal relationships, which in turn can support some healthy response behaviors, how to solve specific tasks and adapt more easily to some specific demands of academic work.

Understanding the influence of Manasika Bhavas on Stanya Kshaya: A Conceptual Study

Breast milk stands as the foremost source of nutrition in every individual's early life. According to Ayurveda, Stanya is considered an Upadhatu of Rasa and is pivotal for the nourishment and development of infants. Ayurveda defines decreased breast milk or lactation insufficiency as Stanya Kshaya, primarily attributed to emotions like anger, grief, and excessive affection, alongside dietary influences. Psychological factors such as emotional stress, anxiety, and maternal health also significantly impact milk production, necessitating both psychological and medical interventions. Any disruption in Agni affects Ahara Rasa, leading to disturbances in Rasa Dhatu, thereby affecting Stanya. Psychological aspects play a crucial role in the proper formation of Ahara Rasa. The significance of Manasika Bhavas lies in their advocacy of Soumanasya as a primary treatment for Ksheerajanana. This paper explores the correlation between psychological well-being and lactation outcomes, drawing on both contemporary psychological research and traditional Ayurvedic principles. Psychological stress, anxiety, depression, and maternal bonding are examined as key factors affecting hormonal balance and neuroendocrine pathways involved in lactation. Understanding these influences is crucial for holistic approaches to maternal health and breastfeeding support. The integration of psychological interventions alongside conventional medical treatments could enhance maternal lactation success rates and overall maternal-infant health outcomes. Thus, managing Stanya Kshaya requires thorough consideration of both psychological factors and dietary practices.

Panchakarma in Parinaama Shoola - A Review Article

Parinama Shoola is a chronic, recurrent, and non-fatal gastrointestinal (GIT) condition, accounting for 25% of patient visits to clinics and hospitals in India.[1] In Ayurveda, Madhavakara was the first to describe Parinama Shoola, characterizing it as pain during digestion, and categorizing it as a Vata-Pradhana Tridoshaja Vyadhi.[2] Samprapti: The development of Shoola begins with the consumption of incompatible foods (Viruddhahara), such as hot and spicy rich fatty diets, junk foods, and habits like tobacco chewing, smoking, and alcohol consumption. Physical inactivity and mental stress further exacerbate the condition, leading to digestive impairment (Agnimandya) and the formation of toxins (Ama). This sequence of events progresses through stages of: Ajeerna (indigestion), Amlapitta (hyperacidity), finally culminating into Shoola (pain).[3] The causes, progression, and symptoms of Parinama Shoola are remarkably similar to those of duodenal ulcers in modern medical science. Management of duodenal ulcers typically involves: Educating the patient, Avoiding known causative factors, Prescribing bland diets, Using antacids and acid-blocking medications, Administering antibiotics for H. pylori infection. Despite these treatments, high recurrence rates and unwanted side effects are common. In Ayurvedic treatment for Parinama Shoola includes: Samshodhana (purification), Samshamana (pacification), Nidana Parivarjana (avoidance of causative factors), Pathya-Apathya (dietary and lifestyle modifications) and Prevention of recurrences. Ayurvedic medicines are noted for being cost-effective, easily available, and safe for long-term use.

Psychological and Pedagogical Support for Future Technology Teachers in the Educational-Scientific-Production Cluster

The article examines the importance of psychological and pedagogical support in the training process of future technology teachers, particularly in the context of modern educational challenges and the full-scale war. This support is aimed at developing emotional intelligence, stress resilience, preventing professional burnout, improving communication skills, and providing supervision. The research emphasizes the formation of teachers' professional identity, as well as their ability for self-analysis and self-reflection. Special attention is given to methods of coping with emotional stress during the war, including relaxation techniques, stress management, the use of positive thinking, and maintaining a work-life balance. The article is based on the experience of the Social and Psychological Center of the Lviv Educational-Scientific-Production Cluster, which focuses its efforts on supporting future teachers through supervision, training, and consultations. The cluster integrates theoretical knowledge, scientific research, and practical training for specialists in the fields of vocational education and production. This model of teacher training is aimed at enhancing their qualifications, developing professional competencies, and adapting to the demands of the modern labor market. The study explores the key stages of teacher training, which include foundational theoretical preparation, scientific research, practical internships at production enterprises, and further professional development. Special attention is paid to the implementation of innovative teaching approaches and the use of modern technologies that enable future teachers not only to master new teaching methodologies but also to integrate contemporary production processes into educational programs.

“Every Day I was Crying about Something”: Lingering Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on People Working in Juvenile Prisons

Staff working in prison settings experience high rates of job-related stress which was amplified during the COVID-19 pandemic. Twenty staff members from a juvenile prison were interviewed to determine the unique mental health symptoms and stressors several years after initial shutdown procedures. Anxiety, PTSD symptoms, and sleep disturbances were reported; sometimes resulting in staff avoiding interactions with youth. Some positive aspects were noted, but overall, results indicated a continued need for mental health support and policy changes for staff. As noted by one participant, “If you don’t have the direct care staff, you don’t have a facility.”