Individual Well-being Research Articles

Improving health awareness with real-time monitoring through a three-dimensional visualized digital health avatar

IntroductionThe use of modern technologies has become crucial for enhancing people's awareness of health problems. By early health risk detection, there will be better treatment outcomes, the severity of illness will decrease, and costs for treatment will also reduce. Performing routine checkups could help patients feel less anxious about their health in the future. In this study, the innovation of "Digital Health Avatar" enables users to monitor physical changes, raise awareness of medical conditions, and encourage healthy behaviors by visualizing health status as a 3D figure. MethodsHealth data were collected using medical devices like blood test strips, body composition meters, and automatic blood pressure monitors. Advanced algorithms, such as computer vision and natural language processing (NLP), were used to process these collected data and produced a three-dimensional avatar that indicated the user's health status. User satisfaction survey on using the health avatar system was assessed through a survey of 61 participants. ResultsHealth avatar system successfully generate the data and display the measurement results on the health report page of the system. Users can easily check and record their physiological conditions through the avatar. Moreover, users showed satisfaction on the use of the health avatar system and its effectiveness in health check-ups in the survey. ConclusionsThe 'Digital Health Avatar' has the potential to significantly promote individual well-being and health awareness. Its development will be improved by user feedback and continued study, ensuring it becomes an efficient tool for promoting healthier lifestyles.

INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE AS PREDICTOR OF MENTAL WELL-BEING AMONG MARRIED INDIVIDUALS

Several studies have shown that Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) has a negative influence on the mental well-being of married individuals in the contexts where they were conducted. However, the influence of intimate partner violence (IPV) on the mental well-being of married individuals in many developing countries, especially those in Africa, have been under-reported. The study reported here should thus add much value to the pool of literature aimed at exploring the predictive influence of IPV on mental well-being among married individuals in developing contexts. This cross-sectional survey adopted a purposive sampling technique to select 686 married individuals. The results showed that demographic variables (age, educational level, and marriage duration) and IPV dimensions (humiliation and afraid) jointly and independently predicted mental well-being with a variation of 11%. Regarding the contributions of each variable to mental well-being, age, educational level, marriage duration, humiliation, and afraid predicted mental well-being. Based on these findings it is recommended that more relevant training on attitudinal change programs and mechanisms to prevent and respond to violence among married individuals should be strengthened by relevant stakeholders.

EDUCATION-DEVELOPMENT NEXUS: THE NIGERIA’S EXPERIENCE

Development as a concept and a process transcends individuals and society, thus, considered as a multidimensional process of change and transformation manifesting in economic growth, progress and prosperity in environmental, social, psychological, political and demographic components of society. It is about increasing the chances and improving the well-being of every individual to attain their full potentials in society, through human capital investment. Education has been equated to be the indisputable means of investing in people in order to explore their potentialities, creativity, innovation and self-consciousness. This conceptualises the concept of development as growth in the nation’s or societal income and economy with corresponding enhancement of material well-being of individuals in terms of basic necessities of life such as education, food, clothing, shelter, skills, freedom, self-discipline. It showcases some development issues in Nigeria and argued that provision of qualitative education to citizenry directly affects the level of society’s growth and development. The growth theory however lays emphasis on growth rate differentials across countries, the role of externalities in determining the rate of return on capital investments, and assuming that both public and private investments in human capital help in generating external economies and productivity improvements.

SPIRITUALITY, RELIGIOSITY AND WELL-BEING RELATIONSHIP IN EARLY ADULTHOOD: TESTING DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECT VIA MEANING IN LIFE

The study explored the impact of religiosity and spirituality indicators on the subjective, social and psychological well-being of individuals aged 18 to 45 years both directly and indirectly through meaning in life. A total of 199 Bulgarians took part in the study (Mage = 27.58; SD = 8.71; 82.4% females). The instruments of the study were: Brief Mental Health Continuum Short, Brief Multidimensional Measure of Religiosity and Spirituality, Meaning in Life Questionnaire. Analyses showed that spiritual forgiveness predicted all domains of well-being and religious support predicted subjective well-being, all performing positive small effects. Meaning in life acted as full mediator in the relationship between daily spiritual experiences, religious support, forgiveness and all the domains of well-being. Meaning in life partially mediated the relationships between religious support and subjective well-being as well as between forgiveness and social well-being. The findings address that religiosity-based social support, daily transcendent experiences, and forgiving to oneself and the others promote well-being in early adulthood, and the underlying mechanism can be explained by meaning in life. Practical implications of the findings and directions for future research were discussed.

Psychological factors and retirement planning behavior among Chinese university faculty members: The mediating effects of retirement planning intention

ABSTRACT Informed retirement planning impacts the wellbeing of individuals and broader society. However, the current related literature contains a limited understanding of the challenges faced by Chinese university faculty members concerning retirement planning. This study developed a model that combines social cognitive theory (SCT) and the theory of planned behavior (TPB) to investigate the effect of attitude toward retirement planning, social group support, perceived financial knowledge, and future time perspective on retirement planning intention, as well as the mediating influence of retirement planning intention. Data collection was conducted from 514 faculty members of public universities in China through an online questionnaire survey. The findings indicated that perceived financial knowledge demonstrated the strongest positive influence on retirement planning intention, followed by future time perspective and social group support, with retirement planning intention as a mediator. This research offers implications for policymakers, retirement benefits consultants, and financial institution practitioners. It suggests that implementing financial education workshops and personalized planning services could promote retirement planning behavior.

URIP IKU URUP: PROGRAM KONSELING TEMAN SEBAYA SEBAGAI UPAYA MENINGKATKAN MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS PADA SISWA DI SMK BERBUDI YOGYAKARTA

Mental health is an important aspect in the well-being of individuals, especially students in a school setting. However, awareness of the importance of mental health is often low among students which negatively impacts their development. This study aims to increase mental health awareness at SMK Berbudi Yogyakarta through a peer counseling program, utilizing the Javanese philosophy of “Urip Iku Urup.” The research method used was One Group Pre-Test Post-Test Design, in which the experimental group was given a Pre-Test scale before the intervention and a Post-Test scale after the intervention. The intervention included training and role play, as well as counseling practices using MHA Board Games and Mindful Mixer Games media. The results showed a significant increase in students' mental health awareness, with a pre-test mean score of 40.04 and a post-test mean score of 47.96. Thus, it can be concluded that the peer counseling program is effective in increasing students' mental health awareness at SMK Berbudi Yogyakarta.

Fostering The Future: The Z-Generation In Discovering The Meaning Of Life And Optimism

The study of meaning, in philosophy and psychology, is important to reveal the influences toward individual well-being, especially optimism. This study examined the influences of various factors, such as social media, family environment, education, and personal experiences on Z-generation's perception of the meaning of life and their levels of optimism. Age, sex type, and spirituality are influential factors for searching for meaning in life, found based on the journal article review. The Age influences a person's search for life's meaning and their optimism. Sex type also plays an important role; men tend to discover meaning in life through family roles and social relationships, while women tend to discover meaning through achievement and independence. Spirituality, such as religious practices and spiritual beliefs, offers a framework to discover the meaning of life and remain optimistic, especially through the social support of the spiritual community.

ADL ACTIVITY OF DAILY LIVING DAN KUALITAS HIDUP PASIEN PASCA STROKE ISKEMIK

Ischemic stroke, also referred to as non-hemorrhagic stroke, results in the death of brain tissue due to impaired blood flow, primarily caused by blockages in the cerebral or cervical arteries and, less commonly, in the cerebral veins. This condition profoundly affects various aspects of an individual's life, including physical, emotional, psychological, cognitive, and social well-being. Following a stroke, many individuals experience reduced independence and mobility, which significantly detracts from their quality of life. Often, they face self-care deficits and require assistance to gradually regain the ability to perform activities of daily living (ADL) independently. This study aims to elucidate the strong relationship between ADL independence and the quality of life of post-ischemic stroke patients at Abdul Aziz Hospital in Singkawang City. Employing an analytic observational design with a cross-sectional approach, the research involved a sample of 60 respondents selected from the Neurology Polyclinic at RSUD dr. Abdul Aziz through purposive sampling. Data analysis was conducted using the Spearman Rank test with a 95% confidence level. The results indicate a significant relationship between ADL independence and the quality of life of these patients, as demonstrated by a p-value of 0.000 (p < α) and a correlation strength of 0.514, categorized as moderate (0.40 – 0.599). These findings highlight that the level of independence in activities of daily living is intrinsically linked to the quality of life for post-ischemic stroke patients.

SENSORY-FOCUSED FOOTWEAR DESIGN: MERGING ART AND WELL-BEING FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH AUTISM

The application of art in footwear design presents a unique opportunity to enhance the well-being of children and adults with autism by incorporating controlled sensory stimuli. This approach integrates natural elements—like trees, flowers, and serene colors—into shoes, creating a calming sensory experience. Colors such as blue, green, and lilac are strategically chosen for their soothing effects, fostering emotional stability and reducing stress. Research indicates that these hues promote relaxation, with blue associated with tranquility, green symbolizing nature, and lilac evoking spirituality. The texture of the footwear plays a crucial role as well, incorporating raised patterns inspired by natural forms to provide subtle, relaxing tactile stimulation. This allows for pleasant sensory interaction, particularly for individuals sensitive to excessive stimuli. Comfort is further enhanced by the inclusion of soft, non-slip insoles that distribute weight evenly and ensure safety, especially in environments where slips may occur. Recent studies reinforce the importance of creating environments that promote calm and comfort, highlighting innovative solutions that improve quality of life for individuals with sensory challenges. The design of therapeutic gardens and the development of responsive smart clothing illustrate a growing recognition of the benefits of integrating art and nature into everyday experiences. Overall, this focus on empathetic and inclusive design reflects a societal shift toward understanding and addressing the unique needs of those with autism. By prioritizing sensory-friendly features in everyday products, the integration of art into footwear not only enhances aesthetic value but also contributes significantly to emotional and physical well-being, creating a more inclusive world.

Comparative Analysis of Fall Detection Using Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) Algorithms

Fall detection is a critical area of research due to its implications for public health, particularly among older adults more vulnerable to fall-related injuries. This study explores the application of pervasive computing and machine learning algorithms in detecting falls using accelerometer and gyroscope sensors. Leveraging a dataset obtained from smartphone sensors, the study employs data processing techniques and classification algorithms, including K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), to differentiate fall events from other activities. Evaluation metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score are utilized to assess the performance of the models. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of both the ANN and KNN models in accurately predicting fall detection with high precision and recall scores. The study highlights the potential of pervasive computing systems and machine learning methods to enhance fall detection capabilities, contributing to the development of proactive measures for ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals at risk of falls. Future research directions include exploring alternative algorithms and sensor modalities to improve fall detection systems further.

Risk and protective factors for mental health problems in children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic: results of the longitudinal COPSY study

AbstractThe COVID-19 pandemic has had profound effects on the mental health of children and adolescents worldwide, exacerbating existing challenges and introducing new stressors. This paper explores the impact of risk and protective factors on the mental well-being of young individuals during the pandemic. Using data from the German nationwide, population-based, longitudinal COPSY study (n = 2,471, girls: 50.0%, age 7–17 years) spanning nearly three years, this study investigates how factors such as gender, age, parental education, parental depressive symptoms, family cohesion, and social support influence mental health. Mental health problems were assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Latent growth analysis and structural equation modeling were employed to analyze cross-sectional and longitudinal data collected at five measurement points (initial response rate: 46.8%). Findings revealed that boys and younger children are at a higher risk for mental health problems. Additionally, low parental education, single parenthood, parental burden due to the pandemic and parental depressive symptoms were significantly linked with mental health problems in children. Conversely, personal resources, family cohesion, and social support were associated with less symptoms. Family cohesion additionally buffered against the negative impact of parental depressive symptoms. The study underscores the importance of multi-level interventions that consider individual, familial, and societal factors in promoting positive mental health outcomes among children and adolescents during challenging times. Continued research and collaborative efforts are needed to develop evidence-based strategies for supporting the resilience of young individuals in the face of future adversities.

Pengaruh Konflik Pekerjaan-Keluarga, Kelelahan Emosional dan Stres Kerja terhadap Kinerja di PT Penerbit Erlangga Karawang

Dynamic company dynamics make human resources continue to innovate and be efficient in order to provide the best performance. The conflict between work demands and family responsibilities is increasingly gaining attention in the context of modern life. When work forces you to sacrifice time and attention that should be given to your family, conflict arises, causing a significant impact on an individual's emotional and physical well-being. Emotional exhaustion, which reflects a state of physical and mental exhaustion due to ongoing pressure, and job stress, which occurs due to a mismatch between job demands and the individual's ability to meet them, are the two main consequences of this conflict. This research method is quantitative using multiple linear regression analysis. The research results showed that work-family conflict, emotional exhaustion and work stress had an influence on performance.

Contemporary understanding of health literacy across the Island of Ireland

Abstract This presentation will detail two reviews that provided contextual understanding for this project. The first, an umbrella review which explored i) How is health literacy currently defined and operationalised nationally and internationally? And ii) What are the key components and principles of health literacy? The search was limited, most notably, to systematic reviews published after 2012. A total of 12 studies were included for data extraction and narrative analysis. Findings provided an update of the conceptual understanding of health literacy, emphasising the complex and multidimensional nature of the concept. Dimensions are common, but growing, and moving beyond just individual capabilities. The second, moving beyond the definition, details a systematic review that aimed to gain a contemporary understanding of health literacy through identifying and appraising existing research conducted in an Irish context. Seven electronic databases were searched between October and December 2023. Initial search identified 551 records, following screening, 37 studies were included in this review. Narrative analysis indicated that across the Island of Ireland in the last decade, many studies had narrow populations of focus (i.e. Dublin based, adults, chronic illness populations), limited research design and methodologies (cross-sectional, narrative, and primary research with short time frames), and lacked rigorous monitoring and evaluation of health literacy as a primary or secondary outcome. While studies highlighted clinical, education and community implications, a limited focus on mental health was also observed. Findings from this systematic review offer valuable insights and recommendations for future efforts to enhance health literacy and the health and well-being of individuals across the island of Ireland.

The Neurological Impact of Continuous Nicotine Exposure in Adolescents

Continuous nicotine exposure during adolescence can have profound implications on the development and well-being of individuals in this critical stage of life. As the prevalence of nicotine use among adolescents continues to be a significant public health concern, understanding the impact of this addictive substance on young minds and bodies is crucial. We explored the various dimensions of nicotine exposure in adolescents, from its effects on brain development and cognitive function to the social, emotional, and educational consequences. By looking into the complexities of adolescent nicotine addiction, we can better comprehend the challenges faced by this vulnerable population and develop potential strategies for prevention and intervention.

Improving joy at work and reducing burnout in health care workers in Victoria, Australia using the Institute for Healthcare Improvement joy in work framework: A mixed-methods study.

Burnout in health care workers (HCWs) has serious ramifications for individual well-being, patients, organizations, and health systems. Global evidence demonstrates the COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the risk of burnout. Scalable interventions to address burnout are critical to protect HCW well-being. Underpinned by the Conservation of Resources theory, this study examines the impacts of a statewide improvement initiative (the Initiative), using the Institute for Healthcare Improvement Joy in Work (JiW) Framework, to reduce burnout and increase joy at work across participating health care organizations in Victoria, Australia. An impact evaluation was undertaken utilizing a mixed-methods design. Quantitative outcomes included burnout and joy at work measured using an adapted Mini Z tool. In-depth interviews with implementation teams sought insights into the effectiveness of interventions. Overall, 20 teams from 17 organizations across diverse health care settings and geographical locations participated. At a statewide level, outcomes in burnout and joy at work were inconclusive due to limited data. However, five out of eight teams reporting sufficient data achieved measurable improvements in one or more outcomes. Qualitative data revealed the Initiative increased workplace resources and supports such as providing "permission" for HCWs to prioritize well-being at work, improved communications between management and HCWs, and increased HCWs' teamwork and camaraderie, resulting in safer and more positive workplaces. The JiW Framework, implemented across diverse settings, provided organizations with a structured process to develop multifaceted improvements that resulted in enhanced resources that appeared to improve HCW well-being. Compared to individual well-being support, this approach offers organization-level change and scalability potential.

Surfing a culturally-relevant physical activity: a new wave for health promotion

Abstract Background Surfing originated with Native Hawaiians prior to Western contact. It has since gained worldwide popularity, with an estimated 50 million surfers globally, and recently became an official Olympic sport. Associations have been reported between surfing and mental and physical health outcomes, greater community cohesion, and stronger intra-family relationships. Despite this evidence, surfing is deeply understudied in the context of health promotion. Purpose Surfing was analyzed from a mixed methods perspective to explore factors associated with lifetime participation and current engagement, including gender, race/ethnicity, chronic disease, social context, meaning, and average time of participation. Methods Hawai’i adult residents (n = 1066) completed an online or phone questionnaire. Modified Poisson regression models were fit for lifetime engagement and having a self-reported chronic disease, adjusting for primary race/ethnicity, age, gender, and education. Results Over their lifetime, 42% of respondents (50% men and 37% women) had participated in surfing. Engagement was highest during youth and young adulthood, and decreased with age, yet trends varied notably by race/ethnicity, gender, and generation. Lifetime surfing engagement was significantly related to lower likelihood of diabetes (aPR:0.72; 95%CI:0.56-0.92;p=0.009). Individuals who regularly participated in surfing typically did so with friends (78%) or family (61%); average surfing session duration was 209 minutes. Qualitative results revealed the relevance of surfing across levels of influence for health and wellbeing from physical fitness to community, culture, history and spirituality. Conclusions This work provides insights on the health promotion opportunities of surfing across the life-course and populations, including disease prevention and management. This study has implications for planning and policy locally and globally to achieve optimal community and planetary health. Key messages • Surfing is not only a sport for elite athletes, but also an activity that can support community and individual health and wellbeing in many populations over the lifespan. • Promotion of surfing and public ocean access can support multidimensional influences for wellbeing and should be a focus of cross sector collaborations for optimal community and planetary health.

A Multidisciplinary One Health Approach to Addressing Unsanitary Conditions: The Case of Cascais

Abstract Unsanitary conditions in domiciles often stem from complex social and health-related issues, involving the elderly and/or individuals with mental health problems. These situations typically lead to a decreased quality of life for those involved, directly and indirectly, and may pose a risk to public health depending on their magnitude. In Cascais municipality, identified cases of unsanitary conditions undergo a multidisciplinary analysis. It has been established a Local Technical Group for Domiciliary Unsanitary Situations, comprising various institutions such as local authorities, law enforcement agencies, civil protection, health and social security ministries, and the animal rescue center. This group operates under a One Health approach, encompassing human health, environmental health, and animal health. Interventions are determined by the working group, with the aim of promoting health and enhancing citizens’ quality of life. Cases of unsanitary conditions reported are subsequently discussed within the technical group, which has regular meetings, and may organize joint assessment visits and appropriate actions. This social and environmental initiative responds to the growing need to address unsanitary and cluttered living conditions, which significantly impact individuals’ physical, emotional, and social well-being. The objective is to restore housing conditions in homes by removing waste and unnecessary items, contributing to general individual well-being. While international studies suggest a correlation between unsanitary conditions and hoarding disorder, it’s crucial to differentiate between distinct and independent situations caused by various physical, psychological, and cognitive processes. The establishment of a Local Technical Group for Domiciliary Unsanitary Situations exemplifies a proactive approach to addressing complex health and social challenges, emphasizing collaboration, and holistic intervention strategies, always with a One Health approach. Key messages • Addressing unsanitary conditions is crucial for safeguarding public health, impacting physical, emotional, and social well-being. • The establishment of a Local Technical Group for Domiciliary Unsanitary Situations, under a One Health framework, reflects a collaborative approach to addressing complex health and social challenges.

Individual happiness and well-being as a strategy to increase productivity

This research aims to examine the role of happiness and well-being as key factors in enhancing individual productivity. With the growing body of research on mental health and well-being, a new understanding has emerged regarding the strong connection between emotional well-being and productive performance. Through a literature review, this study identifies and analyzes various empirical studies that explore the impact of happiness and well-being on productivity in different contexts, both in the workplace and in everyday life. The review process employed a systematic literature review method, with inclusion criteria encompassing studies published within the last four years and written in English or Indonesian. The findings indicate that happiness and well-being not only contribute to improved performance but also play a pivotal role in fostering an environment that supports sustainable productivity growth.

Love of life and flourishing in Turkish youth: mediating effects of optimism and hope

The concept of love of life, which refers to a positive attitude towards one's own life, care for it and attachment to it, has recently captured the attention of researchers in the field of positive psychology. Despite its growing importance, there is a lack of research investigating the underlying mechanisms through which love of life impacts the flourishing and well-being of individuals. For the first time, the present study examined the mediating roles of optimism and hope in the association between love of life and flourishing in Turkish youth. The study comprised 374 young adults, aged between 18 and 24 years (55.3% female; Mean age = 20.94; SD = 1.78 years), who participated in an online survey assessing their levels of love of life, optimism, hope, and flourishing. Results from the mediation analysis revealed that love of life significantly predicted optimism, hope, and flourishing. Furthermore, optimism and hope had significant predictive effects on flourishing. Importantly, optimism and hope played a partial mediating role in explaining the positive influence of the love of life on individuals' flourishing. The findings suggest a positive association between love of life and heightened levels of optimism and hope. These psychological attributes, in turn, emerge as crucial factors contributing to increased flourishing. These results hold significant implications for the development of interventions focused on understanding how to foster the love of life and flourish through the cultivation of psychological strengths.

Anxiety, depression, stress, and resilience among undergraduate nursing students at Al-Quds university: the impact of war started on October 7 in Palestine

BackgroundThe current outbreak of war in Palestine on the 7th of October 2023, heightened concerns about mental health and well-being of individuals, particularly undergraduate students in Palestine. Such traumatic experiences and political conflict did affect the social, economic, psychological, and academic status of university students in Palestine, in particular, nursing students. However, resilience is one of the moderators which may positively decrease the severity of those negative war-related symptoms.AimThe study aimed to examine the moderation effect of resilience on the relationship between sociodemographic and personal characteristics and depression, anxiety, and stress among undergraduate nursing students in Palestine.Design and methodsA quantitative, descriptive-correlational design utilized to investigate anxiety, depression, stress, and resilience among nursing students. A convenience sample of 325 nursing students recruited from Al-Quds University were asked to respond to a self-administered questionnaire.ResultsA total of 325 nursing students participated in this study. The analysis showed that the majority of the participants were experiencing extremely severe anxiety levels (43.7%, n = 142), while 25.5% (n = 83) were experiencing extremely severe depression and 14.5% (n = 47) were experiencing high-stress levels compared to 60% (n = 195) of the students were at their normal resilience level. There were statistically significant differences in the resilience based on sex (t323 = 2.994, p = .003). Knowing that males have higher resilience mean scores (M = 3.06, SD = 0.35) than females (M = 2.93, SD = 0.41) indicates higher resilience in males than females. After performing two steps of hierarchical regression, the results revealed that resilience negatively moderated the relationship between sociodemographics and depression, and anxiety.ConclusionThis study offers valuable insights into the mental health status of undergraduate nursing students in Palestine during the war. The results indicated that resilience is one of the pivotal moderators that may buffer anxiety and depression. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to address the diverse mental health needs of this population, considering the complex interplay of individual, demographic, and contextual factors. Future research should continue to explore these dynamics and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions promoting mental well-being during conflict.