Robust Support System Research Articles

Exploring the Impact of Economic Crises on Mental Health: Narratives from Affected Individuals

This study aims to explore the impact of economic crises on mental health through the personal narratives of affected individuals. By examining their experiences, this research seeks to understand the emotional toll and coping mechanisms adopted during periods of financial instability, providing insights into the broader implications for mental health and well-being. A qualitative research design was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews with 20 participants who experienced significant financial hardship due to economic downturns. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling from community centers, support groups, and online forums. Data collection continued until theoretical saturation was reached. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed using NVivo software, with thematic analysis identifying key themes and subthemes. Ethical considerations included informed consent, confidentiality, and anonymity. The study identified three main themes: Emotional Impact, Coping Strategies, and Perceived Support Systems. Participants reported increased anxiety, stress, depression, and feelings of shame and guilt. Coping strategies included seeking social support, financial management, avoidance, substance use, positive reframing, and physical activity. Support systems such as family, community resources, government assistance, workplace support, and online communities played a crucial role in mitigating the mental health impacts. These findings align with existing literature, underscoring the complex interplay between economic crises and mental health. Economic crises have a profound impact on mental health, exacerbating anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges. Effective coping strategies and robust support systems are essential in mitigating these impacts. This study highlights the need for accessible mental health services, financial literacy programs, and strong social support networks to support individuals during economic downturns. Future research should focus on larger, diverse samples and integrate quantitative measures to further understand these dynamics.

Work-Life Integration in Women's Lives: A Qualitative Study

Objective: Work-life integration represents a critical challenge for many, especially women who often navigate complex interplays of professional aspirations and personal responsibilities. This qualitative study aims to explore the experiences of work-life integration among women, identifying the strategies they employ and the challenges they face, with the objective of informing policies and practices that support gender equity and work-life balance. Methods and Materials: Employing a grounded theory approach, the study conducted semi-structured interviews with 23 women from various professional backgrounds. Participants were selected through purposive sampling to ensure a wide range of experiences were represented. Interviews focused on daily routines, challenges in work-life integration, and strategies for managing these challenges. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key themes and patterns. Findings: The study identified five main themes related to work-life integration: Workplace Flexibility, Support Networks, Personal Well-being, Career Advancement, and Work-Life Conflict. These themes highlight the importance of flexible work arrangements, robust support systems, attention to personal well-being, pathways for career advancement, and the ongoing negotiation of work-life conflict. Each theme encompasses several subthemes and concepts that illustrate the complex and varied strategies women employ to achieve work-life integration. Conclusion: The findings underscore the multifaceted nature of work-life integration for women, emphasizing the crucial role of workplace flexibility, supportive networks, and policies that prioritize personal well-being and career advancement. The study suggests that addressing these key areas is essential for promoting work-life balance and gender equity in the workplace.

Challenges in the Reintegration of Disabled Individuals into the Workforce

The reintegration of disabled individuals into the workforce presents significant challenges and opportunities for enhancing workplace diversity and inclusivity. This study aims to explore the barriers and supports experienced by disabled workers as they navigate their return to employment, highlighting the complex interplay of personal, societal, and institutional factors that influence their reintegration process. This qualitative study utilized semi-structured interviews with 31 disabled individuals who have attempted to re-enter the workforce. Participants were selected through purposive sampling to capture a diverse range of disabilities, ages, and employment backgrounds. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis facilitated by NVivo software, focusing on reaching theoretical saturation where no new themes emerged from the data. Three main themes were identified: Employment Barriers, Support Systems, and Positive Experiences. Employment Barriers included categories such as Physical Accessibility, Social Attitudes, Workplace Policies, Technology and Tools, and Legal and Institutional barriers. Support Systems highlighted Government Programs, Community and Networks, Employer Support, and Personal Strategies. Positive Experiences encompassed Successful Accommodations, Employer Engagement, Career Development, and Advocacy and Awareness, illustrating facilitative aspects that aid reintegration. The study underscores the necessity of a multi-layered approach to the workforce reintegration of disabled individuals. Effective accommodations, proactive employer engagement, and robust support systems are crucial for overcoming the significant barriers these individuals face. Enhancing these areas can significantly improve employment outcomes for disabled workers, promoting a more inclusive and diverse workforce.

Strategies for Enhancing Academic Motivation: Insights from Successful Students

Academic motivation is crucial for successful educational outcomes. This qualitative study explores the strategies employed by successful students to enhance their academic motivation, aiming to identify the mechanisms behind their success and provide actionable insights for educators and learners alike. The study employed a qualitative research design with data collected through semi-structured interviews. A total of 25 academically successful students from various disciplines participated in the study. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed using NVivo software to facilitate thematic analysis, aiming for theoretical saturation. Five main themes were identified as central to enhancing academic motivation: Time Management, Learning Strategies, Motivational Drivers, Support Systems, and Coping Mechanisms. Each theme encompassed multiple categories with specific concepts: Time Management included prioritization, routine building, break management, and procrastination avoidance. Learning Strategies covered active learning, resource utilization, and conceptual understanding. Motivational Drivers were characterized by personal goals, external encouragement, intrinsic motivation, and achievement recognition. Support Systems involved academic support, emotional support, institutional support, and online communities. Coping Mechanisms included stress management, reflection and adaptation, and resilience building. The study concludes that successful academic motivation is influenced by a combination of well-developed time management skills, active and resourceful learning strategies, strong motivational drivers, robust support systems, and effective coping mechanisms. These factors collectively contribute to the academic success of students.

Navigating the Emotional and Psychological Landscape of Cancer: A Narrative Inquiry into the Stages of Grief and the Role of Religion and Social Support

This study delves into the multifaceted nature of the cancer diagnosis journey, revealing the intricate interplay between emotional responses, religious beliefs, and social support. Utilizing narrative inquiry and reflexivity, the research aligns with established literature on grief, demonstrating that cancer patients' emotional experiences often diverge from Kübler-Ross's linear stages of grief, reflecting a more individualized and dynamic process. The methodology involved personal narrative analysis and qualitative examination of emotional stages—shock, anger, fear, hope, acceptance, sorrow, and bargaining— each influencing coping mechanisms in unique ways. Fear of death emerges as a prominent response to a cancer diagnosis, profoundly impacting patients' behavior and emotional state. This fear, often marked by distress and anxiety, can either deter individuals from seeking care or motivate them to pursue treatment, depending on how it is managed. Hope, in contrast, plays a crucial role in sustaining resilience and promoting positive coping strategies. The presence of hope, bolstered by supportive medical teams and loved ones, significantly enhances quality of life and treatment outcomes, while its absence can lead to psychological distress and hinder recovery. Religious beliefs and spirituality offer a framework for understanding and managing illness, providing meaning and purpose that can alleviate distress. Strong social support networks are essential in buffering against depression and improving overall quality of life. Conversely, the absence of such support exacerbates negative outcomes and affects treatment efficacy. Depression, a prevalent but often underdiagnosed condition among cancer patients, significantly impacts quality of life and treatment success. Effective cancer care must encompass both physical and mental health dimensions, with accurate diagnosis and comprehensive support being critical. The findings underscore the need for a holistic approach to cancer care that addresses the complex emotional and psychological landscape of terminal illness, incorporating strategies to manage fear and foster hope while providing culturally sensitive and robust support systems for patients.

The Lived Experience of Parent Caregivers of Adolescents with Mental Illness: A Phenomenological Study.

The challenges faced by parents of adolescents with mental disorders are profound and multifaceted. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the lived experiences and concerns of parents of adolescents with mental disorders in Oman. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was employed in this study. In-depth interviews were done with twenty caregivers from June 2021 to the end of December 2022. Data collection continued until saturation was reached, ensuring a thorough understanding of the phenomena under investigation, and thematic analysis was applied to identify and examine the recurring patterns within the data. Three primary themes emerged from the data analysis including Emotional Burden and Guilt, Treatment Concerns, and Fear of the Future. Parents' experiences during their adolescents' diagnosis revealed a profound emotional struggle, encompassing anxiety, frustration, and occasional confusion as they grappled with understanding their children's illness and navigating unpredictable behaviors. The exploration of seeking treatment highlighted the complexity of their experiences. However, a persistent sense of uncertainty regarding their children's future was a consistent thread irrespective of the chosen treatment path. This study aimed to investigate the complex challenges faced by caregivers of adolescents suffering from mental disorders, underscoring the vital need for tailored interventions and robust support systems to address these intricate issues. The findings highlight the importance of heightened awareness, improved access to psychotherapeutic resources, and comprehensive caregiver support.

Clinical Psychology Interns' Lived Experiences With Suicidal Clients

This paper explores the lived experiences of clinical psychology interns who have encountered suicidal clients during their internship. Employing qualitative phenomenological investigation, semistructured interviews were conducted and analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). The study employed purposive sampling and gathered valuable data from 8 clinical psychology interns who were all taking a master's degree in Clinical Psychology. The results highlighted that those encounters with suicidal clients triggered various reactions among interns, leading to self-doubt and a sense of unpreparedness in handling such cases. Many interns struggled with managing their emotions, especially when clients' traumas mirrored their experiences. The study emphasized the importance of a robust support system in helping interns cope with the challenges of their work. The results included a heightened need for supervision among interns, as they faced intense emotional challenges when working with suicidal clients. Supervision emerged as a critical component in helping them process these experiences. Regular check-ins with supervisors not only provided emotional support but also offered practical strategies for managing client interactions. This guidance helped interns develop coping mechanisms and build resilience, fostering their professional growth and confidence in handling difficult cases. Despite the challenges, the interns found purpose in witnessing significant client progress and emphasized the importance of self-care and ongoing training to prepare future clinicians for similar experiences.

Returning to the Classroom: A Narrative Inquiry into the Challenges and Coping Strategies of an EFL Teacher Resuming After Hiatus

This qualitative study employs narrative inquiry to investigate the challenges and coping strategies of T1, an EFL teacher at an Islamic private elementary school, returning to teaching after a hiatus. Through unstructured interviews, it examines the changes in T1's teaching approach before and after the break, uncovering unique challenges and adaptive strategies. The research reveals T1's struggle with readjustment, curriculum changes, and lesson planning without standard textbooks. To navigate these challenges, T1 utilized familial support, embraced technological resources for professional growth, and innovatively combined traditional and modern teaching methods. These findings emphasize the importance of continuous professional development, adaptability, and robust support systems in enhancing the reintegration process for EFL teachers. The study contributes valuable insights into the EFL field, highlighting the need for resources and strategies to support teachers like T1 in transitioning back to the classroom. This research not only sheds light on the specific challenges faced by returning EFL teachers but also underscores the critical role of support systems and professional development in maintaining high-quality EFL education.

Suicide and Mental Illness Amongst the Medical Profession

This paper highlights the critical issue of mental health and suicide risk among doctors amidst healthcare system challenges. Despite job security, doctors face a heightened risk of mental health problems and suicide, exacerbated by various factors including profession-related traits and burnout. Stigma and professional fears hinder support-seeking. The paper emphasizes the need for systemic changes, early intervention, and robust support systems to address these challenges, underlining the importance of safeguarding healthcare professionals' mental well-being.

Influence of Yellow Card Campaigns on Knowledge , Attitude and Practices of Selected Social Media Subscribers in Ondo State

This study utilises a survey approach to explore the impact of yellow card campaigns on the awareness, attitudes, and practises of selected social media users in Ondo State. The theoretical framework is grounded in agenda setting and technological determin ism theories. A survey method employing a questionnaire was employed, targeting 392 subscribers of Ondo's First Lady, Betty Anyanwu Akeredolu, across Facebook and Twitter. Through statistical analysis, the results reveal the Yellow Card Campaign's success in creating extensive awareness among social media users, with 70% actively engaging with campaign materials on Betty's social media platforms. The campaign's efficacy in promoting a proactive stance against sex and gender based violence (SGBV) is acknowle dged by 58% of respondents, highlighting its effectiveness in conveying the core message. However, the study unveils a concerning reality, as 33.3% of respondents admit to experiencing sexual violations, underscoring a prevalent issue of SGBV in Ondo State . Notably, more than three quarters (77.3%) of those who reported being sexually violated chose to report the incidents to a nearby police station. Some victims hesitate to report incidents due to stigmatisation and fear, underscoring the imperative for ro bust support systems. The findings indicate a significant link between the initiation of the Yellow Card campaign and an increased likelihood of individuals reporting instances of sexual violation. In conclusion, the study posits that soci al media has play ed a pivotal role in the success of the Yellow Card Campaign against SGBV in Ondo State. The strategic utilization of social media as a primary tool for awareness creation, coupled with offline efforts, has proven highly effective.

A Study to Demonstrate Impact of Active Referral of Acute Leukemia Patients and Families to Patient Organization at Diagnosis

Introduction and background Key factors that relate to worse quality of life (QoL) in acute leukemia patients were identified in a global survey conducted by the Acute Leukemia Advocates Network (ALAN) such as age, gender, socioeconomic state, social functioning (e.g., worries about family and friends, feeling isolated, finances, etc.[ Pemberton-Whiteley et al, 2023]). These factors should be taken into consideration by healthcare professionals caring for acute leukemia patients to enable a robust support system. The role of patient organizations (PO) in the care of the patient and family is becoming increasingly important, however, patients are often not aware of the existence of POs and physicians and providers are often unsure of the role and benefits of PO, which then leads to a delay in patients reaching out to POs (for information, education resources, support resources [support groups, online chat, peer-to-peer support, financial support, psychological support, carer support], etc.). To date, there is limited evidence showing the importance of support offered to patients and their families. The ALAN, the Mayo Clinic and a national PO, are conducting a study that aims to assess both retrospectively and prospectively the benefits of active referrals to PO for patients with acute leukemia. Hypothesis We hypothesize that active referrals of adult patients with acute leukemia to PO at diagnosis has a positive impact on patient-reported outcomes and patient experience. Methods Here we present the study methodology that uses a quantitative method via administration of surveys at different timepoints. We plan to do both a retrospective and prospective evaluation of patients (target N=200) previously referred and new patients with a diagnosis of acute leukemia. There are 4 scenarios which are presented in Figure 1. For patients already diagnosed and evaluated at Mayo Clinic (scenarios 3 and 4), we will contact them either via email or portal message to see if they are interested in the study. A study consent form will be sent to them. If they indicate interest and consent, they will be contacted to understand whether they were referred to or sought help from PO around the time of their diagnosis or subsequently, and a questionnaire will be sent to them to assess if PO services helped them in their disease or treatment course. For newly diagnosed patients (scenarios 1 and 2), active referral to PO using PO referral online form will be provided and they will receive study consent form during their first visit at Mayo Clinic. A questionnaire will be sent to them to understand if they used the services from PO after the referral and if yes, to assess if PO services helped them in their disease or treatment course. In addition, every month from diagnosis up to 6 months, all patients who consented to take part in the study will be asked to complete the validated HM-PRO QoL assessment tool (an instrument designed to measure patient-reported outcomes in those with hematological malignancies), to assess QoL and symptoms and change over time. Conclusion This is a pilot study aiming at building evidence on the importance of support offered to patients and their families and demonstrating the impact of an active referral at diagnosis. 1 Pemberton-Whiteley Z, Nier S, Geissler J, Wintrich S, Verhoeven B, Christensen RO, Salek S, Oliva EN, Ionova T, Bradley J. Understanding quality of life in patients with acute leukemia, a global survey. J Patient Cent Res Rev. 2023;10:21-30

Exploring the Optimization Path of Rural Governance in the Perspective of Three Governance Integrations

With the implementation of the new eras rural revitalization policy, the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China has explicitly set the goal of building a modern rural governance system, emphasizing the integration of self-governance, rule of law, and moral governance in the grassroots social governance system. Rural governance plays a crucial role in grassroots governance, serving as the foundation and key to social governance, and it holds significant importance in advancing the national governance system and governance capacity building. Therefore, this paper discusses the issues in rural governance from the perspective of Three Governance Integrations. Currently, the pain points of grassroots governance are particularly evident in three aspects: the inadequate effectiveness of rural self-governance, the hindered operation of rural rule of law, and the limited role of rural moral governance. Based on this, the paper innovatively proposes three solutions: deepening villagers self-governance, strengthening rural rule of law, and enhancing rural moral governance. By consolidating the foundation of rural governance systems, enhancing safeguard mechanisms, and establishing a robust support system, further development and improvement of the rural governance system in the perspective of Three Governance Integrations can be achieved.

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION IN MASTER’S PROGRAMS

The Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the need for successful digital transformation in master's programs, particularly in the realm of e-learning. This article explores the importance of a needs-centered approach in navigating this transformational journey amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic. By understanding and addressing the evolving needs of students in a remote learning environment, educational institutions can effectively leverage digital technologies to deliver high-quality education. The article presents a comprehensive framework for digital transformation, emphasizing the evaluation of student needs and objectives as the starting point. Strategic planning, resource allocation, and timeline development are crucial for the seamless integration of digital tools into the curriculum, taking into account the unique challenges imposed by the pandemic. Faculty and staff training and development play a pivotal role in equipping educators with the skills necessary to facilitate effective online instruction. The adoption of suitable technologies and platforms is explored within the context of e-learning, considering factors such as scalability, security, and user experience. The needs-centered approach highlights the importance of personalized learning experiences to cater to individual student requirements, ensuring engagement and achievement in the virtual classroom. Continuous monitoring, evaluation, and improvement are paramount during the digital transformation process, particularly in the context of the pandemic. Gathering feedback from students and educators allows institutions to adapt and refine their digital initiatives to optimize learning outcomes. Effective change management strategies, including clear communication, robust support systems, and stakeholder engagement, help navigate the challenges presented by the sudden shift to remote learning. In conclusion, a needs-centered approach is crucial for successful digital transformation in master's programs, especially in the face of the covid-19 pandemic. By prioritizing student needs, aligning strategies with remote learning requirements, and leveraging digital tools effectively, educational institutions can ensure the continuity and quality of education. This article provides insights and guidance for institutions seeking to navigate the digital transformation journey in the context of Covid-19, empowering them to deliver exceptional e-learning experiences and prepare students for the future of education.

Massaging the Contours of Poverty and General Malaise amid Opportunities: Zambian and African Writers

This paper addresses the question, 'Why is there a general malaise and impoverishment among writers in Zambia and Africa despite their sweat and well known good record?' Writing is supposed to be a lucrative undertaking. However, most writers in Zambia and Africa continue to massage the contours of poverty. This qualitative study discusses the views of the members of Writers Space Africa –Zambia (WSA). 25 writers and 2 online publishing companies were interviewed via the WhatsApp platform. The study employed a descriptive approach and thematic analysis. The study reveals that writers continue to court poverty due to lack of financial literacy, and heavy reliance on self-publishing. It also shows that most writers lack collaboration with big players in the book industry, not producing books in series and the readers' attitude towards reading. There is a lack of book adaptation by filmmakers while books are not being translated into other languages coupled with a lack of support systems by governments among other reasons, render writers to continue massaging impoverishment and general malaise. The study recommends robust support systems by governments and collaboration among writers to age out of the doldrums of general impoverishment among writers in Zambia and Africa.

Pedagogical Paradigms in the AI Era: Insights from Saudi Educators on the Long-term Implications of AI Integration in Classroom Teaching

This qualitative study explores the perceptions and experiences of Saudi educators regarding the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in classroom teaching. Through semi-structured interviews with a purposively sampled group of teachers, the research investigates initial experiences with AI, anticipated changes in teaching roles, support and training needs, student reactions, and concerns about long-term AI integration. Employing a constructivist grounded theory approach, the study reveals a nuanced understanding of the opportunities and challenges presented by AI in education. Findings indicate a spectrum of initial responses to AI integration, ranging from enthusiasm to apprehension, emphasizing the need for comprehensive professional development and robust support systems. Educators anticipate significant shifts in their pedagogical roles, foreseeing AI as a facilitator of personalized learning but also expressing concerns about its potential to marginalize traditional teaching practices. Student reactions were generally positive, though mixed, highlighting the need for adaptive AI implementation strategies. Concerns about ethical implications and educational equity were prominent, underscoring the necessity of a balanced, ethical approach to AI deployment. The study contributes to the emerging body of literature on AI in education and offers insights for policymakers, curriculum developers, and educational technologists on effectively harnessing AI's potential while addressing its challenges. It calls for ongoing dialogue, professional development, and ethical considerations as AI becomes more integrated into educational systems, ensuring it serves as a supportive component within the pedagogical framework.

Supporting pregnant and parenting students: Legal responsibilities and student rights

Countless pregnant and parenting students come to college and university campuses across the country every year. According to the Urban Institute, more than 5.4 million parenting students were pursuing higher education as of December 2022. Whether a first‐time freshman or a doctoral‐level graduate student, these students are owed a robust support system by universities and colleges striving to achieve inclusive, developmental, and academic excellence.

Supporting pregnant and parenting students: Legal responsibilities and student rights

Countless pregnant and parenting students come to college and university campuses across the country every year. According to the Urban Institute, more than 5.4 million parenting students were pursuing higher education as of December 2022. Whether a first‐time freshman or a doctoral‐level graduate student, these students are owed a robust support system by universities and colleges striving to achieve inclusive, developmental, and academic excellence.

Promoting data element circulation for urban digital economy development

Data element circulation, also known as data circulation, refers to the entire process of continuously collecting, processing, storing, transmitting, and using data in economic and social activities. The rapid development of information technology has made the data elements circulation an important driving force for promoting economic growth, improving production efficiency, and fostering social innovation. However, the data elements circulation also presents a series of challenges, including data value, data security, data quality, data openness, and sharing. To fully unleash the value of data resources, improve the new foundational system, stimulate market vitality, and create a data element market with significant influence, this paper conducts a thematic study on promoting data element circulation. The significance of accelerating data element circulation, the global efforts in data element circulation, and the basic requirements for data element circulation are discussed. The paper also provides recommendations for promoting data element circulation, including policy and regulatory development, infrastructure enhancement, and continuous technological innovation. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the importance of strengthening application scenarios, such as smart city initiatives and data center services and building a robust support system for data element circulation. The proposed strategies aim to foster high-quality development of the urban digital economy and facilitate the circulation of data elements.

Perspective of Speech and Language Therapists in Turkey on Primary Progressive Aphasia

Primary progressive aphasia (PPA) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the insidious and progressive loss of speech and language skills. However, there is no standardized intervention method applied in patients with PPA. It was conducted a virtual survey of SLTs across Turkey, to collect information about the assessment, intervention and management of patients with PPA. A total of 285 SLTs participated the survey; 76.8% ( n = 219) of the respondents were female, 58.9% ( n = 168) were 1 to 2 years post graduation, 62.8% ( n = 179) of them were master’s degree, and 46% ( n = 131) were working in a rehabilitation center. All 285 participants included in the study stated that they did not create a therapy process for their clients with PPA and they performed the therapy processes applied in the classical aphasia treatment. Two hundred sixty-eight participants stated that they had more than six sessions with their clients, and 280 respondents. It is very important for all participants to plan functional interventions that require joint participation with the patient and their family/caregiver or friends, which will support communication and language and communication-oriented intervention. However, there is a need to develop specific evidence-based care pathways for people with PPA so that more efficient interventions can be made. Raising awareness among SLTs and other clinical service providers that rehabilitation is effective can increase the accessibility of interventions for individuals with PPA and lead to a more robust support system for individuals affected by PPA.

Supporting pregnant and parenting students: Legal responsibilities and student rights

Countless pregnant and parenting students come to college and university campuses across the country every year. According to the Urban Institute, over 5.4 million parenting students were pursuing higher education as of December 2022. Whether a first‐time freshman or a doctoral‐level graduate student, these students are owed a robust support system by universities and colleges striving to achieve inclusive, developmental, and academic excellence.