Individual Well-being Research Articles

What Should a Public Health Approach to Sleep Look Like?

Sleep is essential for a healthy, productive life, but access to sufficient and quality sleep is not universal. Sleep equity is influenced by both pathological and nonpathological sources. This article considers nonpathological determinants of adequate sleep, defines 3 features of sleep insecurity, and suggests how to promote sleep literacy to remove some barriers to adequate sleep, promote sleep equity, and improve individual and community health and well-being.

Testing the Rejection-Identification Model in Appalachia

Abstract The purpose of these two studies was to examine how perceived discrimination predicts personal and collective self-esteem among Appalachians through the Rejection-Identification Model (RIM). Participants (n = 197 in Study 1, n = 384 in Study 2) were undergraduate students from a university in Central Appalachia who completed several questionnaires in an online survey that assessed the various aspects of RIM on individual and collective well-being. In Study 1, perceived discrimination was assessed by noting the likelihood of discrimination in hypothetical scenarios, whereas in Study 2, perceived discrimination was assessed as the frequency of firsthand experiences across a variety of discriminatory behaviors from others. The results demonstrated that when Appalachians experience discrimination, it relates directly to a decrease in their psychological well-being, but it also has an indirect positive effect through heightened identification with their ingroup. This was especially pronounced among those experiencing firsthand discrimination and those living in non-rural areas. In contrast to the RIM, there was no evidence that heightened internalization of stereotypical characteristics was related to well-being.

Critical evaluation of Afaf Meleis´s Transition Theory: strengths, limitations and applications in nursing education

Introduction: Afaf Meleis's Transitions Theory addresses how multidimensional transitions impact individuals' health and well-being, emphasizing the importance of properly managing these transitions. This study aims to critically and reflectively describe this theory by analyzing its strengths, limitations, usefulness, and significance in nursing education. Method: Chinn and Kramer's theory analysis methodology was used. The description was based on publications from 1994 to 2010, and a critical reflection was performed by searching for evidence in PubMed and CINAHL between 2015 and 2021. The MeSH descriptors "Nursing Theory," "Models," and "Nursing" were used, along with the keywords "Transition" and "Transition Theory Meleis," resulting in a total of 16 selected articles. Results: The Transitions Theory has several strengths and limitations. Among its strengths are its high generalizability and accessibility, allowing for application in various clinical and educational contexts. However, the theory has limited semantic clarity and is complex, which may hinder its full understanding and application. Conclusions: The theory is highly valued in nursing education, providing a valuable theoretical framework for understanding and addressing student transitions. Its application allows for incorporating lived contexts into the educational process, creating equitable and student-centered learning environments. More research is needed in Latin America to evaluate its usefulness and adapt it to regional contexts, promoting meaningful learning both in the classroom and in clinical practice.

Sustainable development: A fourth paradigm for twenty-first century careers

This contribution proposes a fourth paradigm for twenty-first century careers adopting a sustainable development framework. First the evolution of the career development field through three paradigms (individual differences, individual development, life design) of career science and practice is offered. Then sustainable development as a fourth paradigm is introduced considering two pillars, Sustainability Science including contributions from the psychology of sustainability and sustainable development, and Human Security Psychology. Enhancing the well-being of individuals and environments, the fourth paradigm asks for redefining sustainable careers, career intervention, and skills for career counselors. Decent work, decent lives and healthy lives issues are included.

Role of Hypoxic Secretome from Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Enhancing Tissue Repair: Regulatory Effects on HIF-1α, VEGF, and Fibroblast in a Sphincterotomy Rat Model.

Fecal incontinence (FI) is the inability to control bowel movements, resulting in fecal leakage. If left untreated, FI can seriously impact the long-term well-being of individuals affected. Recently, using secretome has become a promising new treatment method. The secretome combines growth factors released outside cells during stem cell development, such as mesenchymal stem cells. It consists of soluble proteins, nucleic acids, fats, and extracellular vesicles, which contribute to different cell processes. The primary aim is to assess the impact of hypoxic secretome administration on accelerating wound healing through the HIF-1α pathway in a post-sphincterotomy rat model. The study was conducted with two distinct groups of 10 rats each, the control and treatment groups, which were injected with hypoxic secretome at 0.3 mL. The inclusion criteria for the rats were as follows: male gender, belonging to the Sprague-Dawley strain, aged between 12 to 16weeks, with an average body weight ranging from 240 to 250 grams. There was an increase in HIF-1α gene expression in both groups. The treatment group 37 was significantly higher on day 42 (p = 0.001). VEGF increased significantly in the treatment 38 group on day 42 (p = 0.015). The neovascularization score increased significantly in the treatment 39 group during the first 24hours (p = 0.004). The fibroblast score increased significantly in the 40 treatment group in the first 24hours (p = 0.000) and 42 days (p = 0.035). After being given secretome, there was a higher increase in % collagen area and collagen area (µm2) in the treatment group compared to the control group (27,77 vs 11.01) and (419.027,66 vs 186.694,16). The use of hypoxic secretome has a significant effect as a choice for the treatment of anal sphincter injury after sphincterotomy through the HIF-1α-VEGF-Fibroblast pathway.

Fresh Takes!! the Impact of Receiving Fresh Food Boxes on the Health and Well-being of Individuals living With Diabetes and Prediabetes in Under-resourced Communities in the South Bronx

Fresh Takes!! the Impact of Receiving Fresh Food Boxes on the Health and Well-being of Individuals living With Diabetes and Prediabetes in Under-resourced Communities in the South Bronx

Enhancing resilience to climate events: A multi-capital approach in social work

Climate events have been identified as issues of global concern due to their devastating impacts. Social work seeks to reduce inequalities and promote empowerment to achieve the welfare of individuals and communities. It is, therefore, one of the key professions in reducing vulnerability and enhancing resilience to natural hazards. This study explores how social work could enhance individuals’ resilience to climate events through employing the multi-capital approach. This qualitative study uses 43 semi-structured interviews with social workers, non-governmental organisation workers, religious leaders, and service users in Oman. After analysing their experiences thematically, the data indicate that risk is differentially distributed between and within communities. Climate events may affect two communities differently and even people within the same community differently. Based on the concepts of vulnerability and resilience, the impacts of climate events and individual responses would vary based on their capital levels. The findings also indicate that the multi-capital approach can be used as a guiding approach that assists social workers in identifying both strong and low capital and working to strengthen them. Interestingly, although the multi-capital approach does not consider spiritual capital, the findings illustrate that every aspect of human nature must be linked to God in Islamic societies and stresses faith and stability. Some implications for policy, practice, and education have been outlined, such as developing social work curricula by considering the modification proposed to the multi-capital approach. Moreover, integrating spiritual capital into disaster resilience frameworks is crucial for holistic policy development.

Restriction of Mobile Phone Usage at Bed Time: Effect on Sleep Quality, Mood and Cognitive Function

Introduction: Mobile phones are integral to modern life, but excessive use, particularly at night, can lead to disrupt well-being. Limiting mobile phone use before bedtime may improve individual well-being. This study aimed to evaluate whether restricting mobile phone use at bedtime enhances sleep quality, mood, and cognitive function. Methodology: Undergraduate students from a selected engineering college were assessed for bedtime mobile phone use. Sixty-eight students were chosen via simple random sampling. A self-reported questionnaire including the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Positive and Negative Affect Scale, and Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale evaluated sleep quality, mood, and cognitive function before implementing restrictions. The "Lock My Phone" app was used to enforce these restrictions. Post-intervention assessments were conducted on the 15th and 30th days. Results: Before the intervention, all students reported poor sleep quality, 80.8% had reduced positive affect, 91.1% experienced high negative affect, and only 23.5% had normal cognitive function. Significant improvements were observed in sleep quality, mood, and cognitive function post-restriction (p<0.001). Conclusion: Restricting mobile phone use before bedtime significantly improved sleep quality, mood, and cognitive function among undergraduate students.

Suboptimal Oral Health, Multimorbidity, and Access to Dental Care.

Emerging studies on the links between suboptimal oral health and multimorbidity (MM), or the co-existence of multiple chronic conditions, have raised controversy as to whether enhancing access to dental care may mitigate MM in those with suboptimal oral health. In this study, we aim to assess the extent of the association between suboptimal oral health and MM and whether access to dental care can modify this association. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA) (N = 44,815, 45 to 84 y old). Edentulism, self-reported oral health (SROH), and other oral health problems (e.g., toothache, bleeding gums) were used as indicators of suboptimal oral health. MM was defined according to the Public Health Agency of Canada as having 2 or more of the following chronic conditions: cancer, cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes, and mental illnesses. For robustness, we also used a cutoff of having 3 or more of these chronic conditions. Variables for access to dental care included (1) dental visits within the past year, (2) availability of dental insurance, and (3) cost barriers to dental care. We constructed robust Poisson regression models to estimate the association between suboptimal oral health and MM and then assessed the effect measure modification by indicators of access to dental care on a multiplicative scale. We also calculated the relative excess risk due to interaction for prevalence ratio (PR) on an additive scale. Indicators of suboptimal oral health were significantly associated with MM (edentulism PR 1.17, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08, 1.27; poor SROH PR 1.44, 95% CI 1.33, 1.54; other oral health problems PR 1.52, 95% CI 1.44, 1.78). The magnitude of this association was higher in individuals who reported fewer dental visits within the past year, lacked dental insurance, and avoided dental care due to costs. The association between suboptimal oral health and MM may be exacerbated by barriers to accessing dental care. Policies aiming to enhance access to dental care may help mitigate MM in middle-aged and older Canadians with suboptimal oral health. This study offers insights into the connection among suboptimal oral health, multimorbidity, and access to dental care factors in middle-aged and older Canadians. The findings can be of value for clinicians and policy makers aiming to enhance medical-dental integration and improve accessibility to dental care and to patients seeking information about the connections between oral health and chronic conditions. Implementation has the potential to enhance individual well-being and drive systemic improvements in health care.

Fit Effect of Health Regulatory Focus on Exercise and Healthy Diet: Asymmetric Moderating Role of Scarcity Mindset.

Health is an intrinsic goal strongly related to individuals's well-being. Many individuals make efforts to achieve their health goals through different means. Based on the health regulatory focus theory, we proposed a health regulatory fit effect to understand individuals's health behaviors, and further examined the moderating role of scarcity mindset on these relationships. Using a two-wave longitudinal design, our research recruited a sample of 453 adult participants (350 Women, Age = 20.39 ± 2.30 Years) from China via an online survey platform. The results indicated that health individuals with health promotion-focus were more likely to exercise, whereas those with health prevention-focus were more inclined to prefer a healthy diet. Notably, such effect was moderated by scarcity mindset. Specifically, individuals with low promotion-focus were more susceptible to the impact of scarcity mindset, thus exhibiting less health-promoting behaviors. This research suggested a health regulatory fit effect for two health behaviors. Intriguingly, our findings reveal an asymmetric impact of the scarcity mindset on this fit effect. These results hold significant implications for developing health promotion strategies to mitigate the negative impact of scarcity mindset on healthy behaviors.

RISK FACTORS FOR SUBSTANCE USE AMONG MALE SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN ADEN GOVERNORATE, YEMEN

Substance use among secondary school students is a growing concern with significant implications for public health. This study aimed to identify the risk factors associated with substance use in a community of secondary school students in Aden Governorate, Yemen. A cross-sectional study was conducted among secondary school students in Aden governorate, using a structured questionnaire to collect data on potential risk factors for substance use. The questionnaire included measures of Peer Pressure, Academic Performance (GPA), Parental Monitoring, as well as self-esteem towards drug use. The Self-esteem among secondary students was measured using Rosenberg's Self-Esteem Scale. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed to identify significant risk factors. A total of 280 male students from 10 secondary schools (both section) of Aden governorate participated in the study, with a mean age of 17.37± 1.42 years. Risk factors associated with substance use included peer pressure (OR=2.34, 95% CI: 1.56-3.42), poor academic performance (OR=1.87, 95% CI: 1.23-2.81), lack of parental supervision (OR=1.62, 95% CI: 1.09-2.37), and low self-esteem (OR=1.45, 95% CI: 1.01-2.11). The findings highlight the complex interplay of social, familial, and individual factors in contributing to substance use among secondary school students. These results can inform targeted interventions and preventive strategies to address the identified risk factors in the community. This study identified several key risk factors for substance use among secondary school students in the community. Understanding and addressing these risk factors is vital for the development of effective preventive interventions and support systems to mitigate the impact of substance use on the health and well-being of young individuals.

Emotional Intelligence and Teacher Productivity and Performance in Public Elementary Schools: An Input for a School-Based Intervention Program

Emotional intelligence (EI) is crucial to every individual's well-being. It is a significant factor in establishing positive relationships, especially in the post-pandemic era. Teachers play vital roles in education as they are the front liners who directly interact with learners, parents, and stakeholders. Therefore, they should have a strong EI to employ constructive approaches in managing their school environment. Therefore, educational leaders and school administrators must recognize how personal challenges impact teachers' emotional intelligence, particularly during the pandemic, by establishing reliable support mechanisms that foster a positive learning atmosphere. These resources can help teachers manage personal issues and empower them to support their students effectively. The study analyzed the impact of Emotional Intelligence on teachers’ productivity and performance as input for a school-based intervention program. This descriptive research utilized a quantitative correlation approach. A simple random sampling technique was employed to determine the population sample size. The questionnaire was sent to 655 target respondents from two sub-offices of the Division of Laguna, Department of Education, Philippines, through two methods: via a Google link or using paper and pen, with the permission of their school heads. The questionnaire was sent to the target participants in two ways: through a Google link or through paper-and-pen with the permission of the participants’ school heads. The results revealed that the respondents demonstrated high emotional intelligence but average stress management. On the other hand, they were both at high levels in terms of productivity and performance. The relationship between emotional intelligence and teachers’ productivity exhibited moderate correlations, while there was a strong correlation between Emotional Intelligence and Teaching Performance. Finally, some demographic factors influenced the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and Teaching Performance. Most school interventions focus on skill development, curriculum development, teaching methodologies, or student support systems, and Emotional Intelligence is often neglected. Providing emotional support to teachers is important for recognizing how their emotional states impact their effectiveness and the learning environment. This support can help to continually enhance productivity and performance, leading to better learning outcomes.

A study on the Job Satisfaction of People with Disability Government Employees with Special Reference to Lucknow: A Review

Understanding the job satisfaction of government employees with disabilities is crucial for enhancing both individual and organizational performance and well-being. However, there is limited knowledge about the job satisfaction levels among these employees and the factors that may promote or hinder it. This review aimed to investigate the existing research on job satisfaction among government employees with disabilities in Lucknow. A systematic and thorough review of 13 relevant studies was conducted. The findings revealed that government employees with disabilities generally report lower levels of job satisfaction. Additionally, it was discovered that both the characteristics of the employees and the work environment play a role in job satisfaction, along with social relationships, support, and the alignment between employees' needs and their work settings. There are opportunities to enhance policies and practices regarding the employment of individuals with disabilities. To boost their job satisfaction, we recommend a comprehensive approach that recognizes job satisfaction as a combination of personal, situational, and socialcognitive factors. Future studies on job satisfaction among people with disabilities could benefit from insights gained in the broader job satisfaction research, while also considering elements that are particularly significant for this group, such as the effects of comparison processes and the establishment of effective measurement techniques. Ultimately, it is crucial to advocate for greater understanding and participation of individuals with disabilities in career-related issues to promote their self-determination, motivation, and overall satisfaction.

Exploring the Role of Art in Community Health Initiatives

This review investigates the intersection of art and community health initiatives, focusing on how art can serve as a tool for health promotion, disease prevention, and rehabilitation. It examines the historical and cultural significance of art in health practices, drawing on both active participatory and passive art experiences. By investigating the biopsychosocial model, the paper highlights how art contributes to individual and collective well-being, reducing stress, fostering social cohesion, and improving mental and physical health. Through case studies and evidence-based research, the paper argues that art plays a crucial role in community health strategies, advocating for greater integration of art into public health policy. Recommendations are offered for expanding interdisciplinary collaborations, increasing funding for arts-based health interventions, and exploring digital opportunities for art in healthcare. Keywords: Art in health, community health initiatives, public health, mental well-being, biopsychosocial model.

Exploring psychological help-seeking behaviors and stigma perception among cancer patients: a study on their impact on psychosocial adjustment.

The study investigates the relationships between psychological help-seeking behaviors, stigma perception, and psychosocial adjustment among cancer patients. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for enhancing the mental health and overall well-being of individuals battling cancer. This descriptive cross-sectional study involved 387 cancer patients, with data collected through structured questionnaires assessing attitudes toward seeking psychological help (ATSPPH-SF), stigma perception (SSRPH), and psychosocial adjustment (PAIS-SR). Statistical analyses, including correlation and hierarchical regression models, were conducted to explore the associations between these variables. The findings revealed a significant inverse relationship between perceived stigma and help-seeking behaviors, indicating that higher stigma is associated with reduced likelihood of seeking psychological support. Additionally, patients who were more reluctant to seek help demonstrated poorer psychosocial adjustment. Factors such as age, education level, marital status, and treatment status also played significant roles in influencing these outcomes. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions to reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking among cancer patients to improve their psychosocial adjustment and quality of life. Integrating mental health services into oncology care and addressing the stigma associated with psychological support are essential steps in enhancing patient outcomes.

Outcome Measures And Analysis Of Memory Movers- An Exercise Programme For The Brain, Body And Mind

Abstract Background Memory Movers is a six-week early intervention specialist programme designed for implementation in community settings to meet key healthcare needs for individuals experiencing memory difficulties/dementia and their family carers. This programme provides individuals with the knowledge, skills and education to care for their overall health and well-being. It supports mental health and well-being by utilising cognitive stimulation exercises in conjunction with physical health exercises and providing information and basic exercises in mental health. Methods The Specialist Mental Health Service for Older People collaborated with an Acute Hospital, local Council, and Sports and Wellbeing Partnership in designing a suitable, accessible programme to promote Mental Health and well-being in the community. The programme incorporates the following aspects of health: Memory, Movement, and Mental Health. Results Pre- and post-assessments were undertaken with results highlighting the following: The Life Satisfaction Scale improved by 6%; the Mood Rating Scale improved by 19% and the overall rating of experiencing feelings of anxiety was reduced by 14% within the final week. There was also a 101% increase in the average engagement in physical activity. A range of positive comments received from attendees were recorded on feedback questionnaires. Conclusion Findings highlighted that remaining active supports both physical and mental health. According to the HSE (2020), physical exercise can cause chemical changes in the brain, which can help improve mood. Cognitive stimulation is beneficial to brain health and cognition (Schulz 2015). These contribute to the overall well-being of individuals, promoting cognitive functioning and movement, as well as overall mental health and well-being. This programme also provides opportunities for social connection and integration with services.

Impact of Self-Care Practices on the Prognosis of Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus in Developing Countries: A Narrative Review

Introduction: Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a type of diabetes with increasing prevalence in lower- and middle-income countries. Diabetes self-care practices (SCPs) are non-pharmacological treatments essential in maintaining health and well-being and improving the quality of life among DM patients. Objective: To highlight the diabetes SCPs and their impact on diabetes prognosis in developing countries. Methods: A comprehensive literature search on Africa Journals Online, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library, from year 2000 to 2023, using relevant keywords. Results: The review highlighted the self-care practices for adequate DM care, including physical activity, diet (healthy eating), self-monitoring of blood glucose, medication adherence, foot care, general body care, and follow-up. The review documented from previous studies that adequate SCPs positively correlated with good glycaemic control, reduction of complications, and improved quality of life among DM patients. Conclusion: Healthcare systems and policy-makers in developing countries must prioritise and support the integration of SCPs into diabetes management strategies. This will improve DM prognosis and overall well-being for individuals living with diabetes.

Quality of Life in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Undergoing Pulmonary Vein Isolation: Short-Term Follow-Up Study

Background and Objectives: Atrial fibrillation (AF) significantly impacts the quality of life (QoL) of affected individuals. Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) has emerged as a therapeutic approach to manage AF and improve QoL. This study aimed to assess the QoL in patients with AF undergoing PVI. Methods and Materials: A total of 97 AF patients undergoing PVI (radiofrequency 52.6% (n = 51) and cryoablation 47.4% (n = 46)) at Pauls Stradins Clinical University Hospital were included in this study. QoL was measured using the 36-Item Short-Form Survey (SF-36) before PVI and during a follow-up period of 5.98 ± 1.97 months. Results: This study consisted of 60.8% (n = 59) males, with a mean age of 60.06 ± 11.61 years. A total of 67.0% (n = 65) of patients had paroxysmal AF, and 33.0% (n = 32) had persistent AF. The SF-36 questionnaire revealed major improvements across multiple QoL domains post-PVI, reaching a statistical significance of p < 0.01. Patient factors, such as female gender ([estimate 21.26, 95% CI (7.18, 35.35)], p < 0.01), persistent AF ([estimate 15.49, 95% CI (2.83, 28.15)], p = 0.02), and restored sinus rhythm ([estimate 14.35, 95% CI (1.65, 27.06)], p = 0.03), were associated with significantly improved QoL. Conclusions: PVI in patients with AF positively influences various dimensions of QoL, as evidenced by significant improvement across multiple SF-36 domains. These findings emphasize worsened QoL in patients with AF and the potential benefits of PVI enhancing the overall wellbeing of individuals with AF.

The role of positive thinking in overcoming stress a cognitive-behavioural approach

This article discusses the role of positive thinking in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for treating psychological disorders. The relevance of the topic is due to the growing use of CBT in psychotherapeutic practice and the need for a better understanding of its effectiveness, including the role of positive thinking. This work highlights the importance of positive thinking in promoting mental health and well-being. It argues that positive thinking is a practical tool for developing adaptive cognitive strategies, rather than an unattainable ideal. In CBT, positive thinking is not just about replacing negative thoughts with positive ones, but is a component of a comprehensive approach to re-evaluating an individual's experience. Such an approach contributes to the formation of a more realistic and adaptive perception of oneself and the world. The main methods and techniques of CBT, including cognitive restructuring and behavioral experiments, utilize positive thinking as a tool for correcting destructive thoughts and behaviors. This article discusses different perspectives on the effectiveness of positive thinking in CBT, weighing the arguments for and against its potential limitations. It contributes to improving an individual's psychological well-being and developing psychological resilience, which enables more effective coping with life challenges and stresses. However, to achieve maximum effectiveness, the application of positive thinking must be closely integrated with a comprehensive treatment strategy that considers the individual needs and characteristics of each client. This approach requires a profound understanding of the mechanisms of cognitive distortions and their impact on a person's emotional state.

Conducting fieldwork amidst earthquakes in Nepal: insights from a tourism researcher

This study presents a comprehensive account of the first-hand experiences encountered by a doctoral researcher during fieldwork conducted in Kathmandu, Nepal, in 2015, where two significant earthquakes struck. While existing literature extensively examines the vulnerability of participants, little attention has been given to the challenges faced by researchers themselves within such disaster settings. To address this gap, this study employs an autoethnographic approach to provide a personal and experiential narrative of the researcher’s time in the field. The results of this study shed insight on the difficulties that individual researchers face when working in disaster-affected areas, which is a major contribution to the field of tourism and disaster research. Moreover, it unveils the interplay between individual experiences, logistical intricacies and psychological well-being. This study delves into the practical implications associated with conducting research amidst volatile and uncertain conditions, emphasizing the pivotal role of robust disaster preparedness and response strategies in regions affected by calamities.