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Accessible summary: What is known on the subject?: Supervised Quarantine has been shown to impact the psychological well‐being of those in quarantine both during the COVID‐19 pandemic and in previous pandemics.There are few studies regarding the psychological impact of supervised quarantine for the purpose of COVID‐19 mitigation.There is little research regarding the psychological well‐being of professionals maintaining quarantine, despite the fact they risk potential psychological distress. What the paper adds to existing knowledge?: This paper addresses the paucity of knowledge regarding the psychological well‐being of those undergoing quarantine in a purpose‐built facility.The quarantined study population involved uniquely domestic arrivals and also professionals maintaining quarantine.Lack of control, isolation and miscommunication were perceived as challenging mental well‐being. What are the implications for practice?: Although psychological distress in Domestic arrivals appeared low, there are still identifiable stresses on mental well‐being.Mental health workers need to be cognizant that point entry to COVID‐19 quarantine (Domestic vs. International as well as specific regions) may influence risk of psychological distress.Mental Health nurses supporting those in quarantine should afford quarantined individuals a degree of choice, establish regular clear communication and consider how to establish peer support mechanisms within the quarantine environment. Introduction: Supervised quarantine may compromise psychological well‐being. There is equivocal evidence regarding psychological distress in compulsory supervised quarantine facilities. Aims: To evaluate the mental well‐being of people undergoing and working in a supervised COVID‐19 quarantine facility. Method: Mixed methodology was used, including a cross‐sectional analysis of psychological distress (DASS‐21) and individual semi‐structured interviews (10 professionals maintaining quarantine and 10 quarantined persons). Results: Overall levels of psychological distress were low. Those quarantining from Victoria had significantly lower depression scores compared to all other departure points. Qualitative analysis identified distress being linked to a lack of control, isolation and miscommunication. Discussion: Quarantine was associated with low levels of psychological distress. This was lower in people travelling from Victoria, a state where there were higher rates of infections and restrictions. Interviews showed that psychological distress was conceptualized as being associated with supervised quarantine, but participants recognized the overall importance of quarantine. Implications for Practice: Mental health professionals supporting quarantined people should consider original departure points may predict levels of psychological distress. Implementing ways of gaining control through affording choice, improving communication channels and establishing peer support networks within quarantine settings may help maintain mental well‐being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible Summary: What is known on the subject?: Because the definition of spirituality is complex and has cultural and individual dimensions, it is important to be receptive to individual differences in the perception of spirituality during clinical practice of mental health nurses.Although enhancing spiritual care is beneficial to patients diagnosed with mental illnesses, the extrinsic (e.g., education) and intrinsic factors that would affect nurses' attitudes towards spiritual care have not been investigated.Notwithstanding the known impact of certain intrinsic factors (e.g., personality‐related) of mental health nurses on their coping strategies as well as their emotional and mental health, the link to their spiritual care attitudes has received little attention. What this paper adds to existing knowledge?: This paper is the first to identify the beneficial impacts of extrinsic factors including postgraduate education, working experience, participation in palliative care education programmes, and spiritual care experience on spiritual care attitudes among mental health nurses.Certain intrinsic factors, including those personality‐related such as "Extraversion," "Openness/Intellect," "Conscientiousness," and "Agreeableness," were also associated with higher awareness of providing spiritual care among mental health nurses. What are the implications for practice?: The finding of an association of certain intrinsic factors with more positive attitudes towards spiritual care could encourage further studies to explore possible links between these factors and attitudes of spiritual care.Those less aware of the patients' spiritual needs may benefit through participating in relevant education and on‐the‐job training programmes that involves actual practice and collaboration in a multidisciplinary team. Introduction: Although enhancing spiritual care can facilitate the communication of mental health nurses with patients diagnosed with mental illnesses, extrinsic and intrinsic factors that may influence their spiritual care attitudes remain unclear. Aim: To conduct a questionnaire‐based survey on mental health nurses from eight hospitals. Method: A total of 239 psychiatric nurses were assessed based on (1) "big‐five Mini‐Markers" questionnaire and (2) spiritual care attitudes scale on three components (i.e., core values, growth, and nursing) to investigate the associations of spiritual care attitudes with social/occupational characteristics and personality. Results: A positive attitude was significantly associated with working experience, higher educational level, previous participation in palliative care education programmes, spiritual care experience, and personality factors including "Extraversion," "Openness/Intellect," "Conscientiousness," and "Agreeableness." Discussion: Despite demonstrating impacts of intrinsic factors (e.g., personality) on mental health nurses' spiritual care attitudes, other modifiable extrinsic factors (e.g., education) were important in enhancing their awareness towards spiritual care. Implications for Practice: Our findings encourage further studies to explore possible links between intrinsic factors and attitudes of mental health nurses towards spiritual care as well as suggest benefits of continuing education and on‐the‐job training that involves actual practice and collaboration in a multidisciplinary team to provide spiritual care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible Summary: What is known on the subject?: Family‐involved interventions can result in better outcomes than traditional mental health care for both service users and their families.Nurses' attitudes towards family involvement can affect family participation in care.Earlier studies on psychiatric nurses' attitudes towards family involvement in care report ambiguous findings. Hong Kong's unique integrated cultures may influence Hong Kong psychiatric nurses' attitudes towards family involvement in nursing care. What the paper adds to existing knowledge?: The majority of psychiatric nurses had positive views on family involvement in care in Hong Kong.Four variables (i.e. gender, clinical experience, nature of working unit and family nursing training) of psychiatric nurses are associated with their attitudes towards family involvement in care in Hong Kong. What are the implications for practice?: Policy makers should develop strategies to increase psychiatric nurses' awareness of the importance of family involvement in patient care.Nurse educators help to design family nursing training to enhance psychiatric nurses' competence in collaborating with families of people suffering from mental disorders. Introduction: In Hong Kong, involving the family in nursing care is still optional and mainly depends on nurses' attitudes and the willingness of the family. Hong Kong psychiatric nurses' attitudes towards family involvement in nursing care may be influenced by the unique integrated Eastern and Western cultures, however earlier studies report ambiguous findings. Aims: This study aimed to assess Hong Kong psychiatric registered nurses' attitudes towards family involvement in care and its associated factors. Methods: This study is a cross‐sectional descriptive online survey with convenience sampling based on the Families' Importance in Nursing Care‐Nurses' Attitudes (FINC‐NA) instrument. Results: Most of the psychiatric nurses had supportive attitudes towards family involvement in care. Females with more clinical experience, working in a rehabilitation‐related unit and having attended a family nursing education course were associated with positive attitudes towards family involvement in care. Discussion: The supportive attitude of psychiatric nurses may be explained by the shift of mental health nursing care from hospital care to community care in recent decades. Implications for practice: Mental health nurse education and training in Hong Kong could place more emphasis on building family work skills, particularly for newly qualified nurses and those working in acute inpatient settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible Summary: What is known about the subject?: Poor recovery will cause harm to the quality of life and well‐being of residents and that the scope of influence includes the self, family and society.No study to date has investigated empowerment and the other multiple factors associated with personal recovery among psychiatric nursing home residents. What does the paper add to existing knowledge?: The factors associated with personal recovery are empowerment, social support and global functioning.This pioneer study contributes new evidence that personal recovery is mainly predicted by empowerment, social support and global function, with empowerment exhibiting the highest predictive value. What are the implications for practice?: Strengthening empowerment in mental health nursing may contribute more to the personal recovery of psychiatric nursing home residents than improving global function or social support.Mental health professionals should shift to empowerment‐oriented care to improve individuals' personal recovery, such as offering more opportunities to achieve autonomy, encouraging individuals' involvement in decision‐making and promoting individuals' motivation for achieving their goals. Introduction: Individuals diagnosed with mental illness have a need for recovery. No study to date has investigated empowerment and the other multiple factors associated with personal recovery among psychiatric nursing home residents. Aim: The study aimed to identify the factors associated with personal recovery among psychiatric nursing home residents. Methods: This was a cross‐sectional study with convenience sampling. Participants were recruited from a psychiatric nursing home in Northern Taiwan between April and June 2018. Data were collected through self‐reported, structured questionnaires with verified reliability and validity. Descriptive and hierarchical regression analyses were performed. The present study followed the STROBE guidelines. Results: The study included 158 participants. The factors associated with recovery according to bivariate associations were religious belief, psychotic symptoms, global function, social support and empowerment. In the hierarchical regression, empowerment, social support and global function were the main predictive factors of recovery, with the explained variation reaching 40.8%. Empowerment exhibited the highest predictive value for the recovery. Implications for clinical practice: Strengthening empowerment in mental health nursing may contribute more to the personal recovery of psychiatric nursing home residents than improving global function or social support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary: What is known on the subject?: Developing sex type is the process in which one develops behavioural attributes and personality characteristics socially defined as matching one's biological sex."Psychological androgyny" means that a person should not be judged in terms of his or her traditional sex role. "Androgynous" sex type means that a person could have both female and male characteristics, depending on the circumstances. "Androgynous" sex‐type individuals show higher capacity to deal with a variety of roles and a healthier and more adaptive behaviour than those with the same gender sex typingPrevious studies focused on caring behaviours while examining the difference between female and male nurses but there are no studies on differences between female and male nurses in the mental health field in relation with sex types. What this paper adds to existing knowledge?: From a theoretical point of view, our study adds important information on specific associations between sex types and caring in mental health nurses.Nurses with different sex type perform caring behaviours at different levels. "Androgynous" sex‐type nurses perform caring behaviours at a higher level than others do. What are the implications for practice?: Our findings can contribute to raising awareness among head nurses and policy makers in the mental health field, of the differences between nurses, and among female and male nurses in mental health centres, regarding their caring behaviours.Understanding this association can assist in the recruitment and allocation of candidates in mental health nursing settings and later on, in developing appropriate instruction programs for these employees. Introduction: Understanding differences in caring behaviours by sex is crucial in light of the need to encourage men to join the nursing profession. Aims: To study the association between sex types and caring behaviours in female and male nurses in the mental health field. Methods: Cross‐sectional study including a convenience sample of 114 nurses in three mental health centres in Israel. Data were self‐reported in a structured form including validated scales for the assessment of sex types and caring behaviours. ANOVA and linear regression tests were used were performed with SPSS version 21. All the analyses were 2‐tailed, and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Androgynous female and male nurses displayed higher levels of caring than other sex types. Higher levels of caring were observed in female compared with male nurses overall (p = 0.011) and in behaviours showing respect (p = 0.020) and attentiveness to patients' needs and safety (p = 0.002). Conclusion: Our results suggest that different sex‐typed female and male nurses in the mental health field display different levels of caring behaviours. Implications for Practice: Our findings can help head nurses and policy makers in recruitment and allocation of nurses in mental health settings, as well as in developing educational programs for employees and nursing students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary: What is known on the subject?: The attributes of readiness for hospital discharge (RHD) have been identified to be physical stability, adequate support, psychological ability, and adequate information and knowledge.Patient‐reported RHD has been regarded as an outcome indicator, and poor RHD leads to unplanned readmission, emergency department visits and even death.Knowledge regarding patient‐reported RHD and its factors among patients with depression is limited. What the paper adds to existing knowledge?: RHD among patients with depression is at a moderate level.More than a quarter of people with depression had low RHD.The knowledge dimension of the RHDS among patients with depression should be further strengthened.The length of stay, content received and delivery dimensions of the QDTS were significantly associated with RHD. What are the implications for practice?: This study encourages nurses to assess patient‐reported RHD at discharge in mental health settings.Nurses should pay more attention to patients with hospital stays longer than 20 days.Nurses could improve RHD by enhancing the quality of discharge teaching, particularly the content received and the skills nurses used to deliver such content.Nurses' managers could develop programmes to improve teaching skills via Internet technology, such as simulated patients and online interprofessional discharge planning. Introduction: Low readiness for hospital discharge (RHD) can be followed by negative healthcare outcomes. However, no studies have investigated RHD among patients with depression. Aim: This study aimed to examine patient‐reported RHD and its factors among patients with depression. Method: In total, 367 inpatients with depression were recruited and completed the Readiness for Hospital Discharge Scale (RHDS) and Quality of Discharge Teaching Scale (QDTS). A binary logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the factors of RHD among patients with depression. Results: The total RHDS score was 7.70 ± 1.52. Approximately 28.9% of the participants had low RHD (RHDS score < 7). The results revealed that RHD was significantly associated with the length of stay, content received and delivery. Discussion: RHD among patients with depression is at a moderate level. More than a quarter of people with depression had low RHD. To improve RHD, enhancing the quality of discharge teaching is imperative for patients with depression. Implications for Practice: Nurses should pay more attention to patients with a hospital stay longer than 20 days. Nurses could improve RHD by enhancing the quality of discharge teaching, particularly the content received and the skills nurses used to deliver such content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary: What is known on the subject?: Readiness to change has been documented as a factor affecting alcohol treatment attendance, engagement and outcome.Knowledge regarding readiness to change and its influencing factors in patients with alcoholic liver diseases will inform the development of relevant interventions to help these patients to successfully stop drinking. What this paper adds to existing knowledge?: The scores in all three dimensions of readiness, recognition, ambivalence and taking steps, were low.For the recognition stage, age, drinking severity and stigma are important factors to be considered.For the ambivalence stage, age and drinking severity are important influencing factors.For the taking steps stage, drinking refusal self‐efficacy and depression should be the focus.Instead of negative associations, we found that age and drinking severity, self‐stigma and depression were positively associated with readiness to change.Patients who are younger and have higher drinking severity, higher self‐stigma, higher self‐efficacy and severe depression are more likely to change alcohol use. What are the implications for practice?: Age, drinking severity, self‐stigma, drinking refusal self‐efficacy and depression are important factors to be considered when mental health nurses try to increase psychological preparedness for changing alcohol use in patients with alcoholic liver diseases.Different factors must be considered for patients in different stages of readiness to change.Different alcohol treatments are needed for different patient populations. Introduction: Readiness to change (RC) refers to the willingness or psychological preparedness for changing alcohol use. Knowledge regarding factors influencing RC is crucial for developing alcohol treatment plans. Aims: The study's purpose was to investigate RC and its influencing factors in patients with alcoholic liver disease (ALD). The factors explored include demographics, disease characteristics, drinking severity, self‐stigma, depression, social support and self‐efficacy. Method: This is a cross‐sectional study using self‐reported questionnaires. Results: Eighty‐seven patients with ALD were recruited. Their scores in all three dimensions of readiness, recognition, ambivalence and taking steps, were low. Self‐stigma, age and drinking severity explained 32.3% variation in recognition. Drinking severity and age explained 21.5% variation in ambivalence. Self‐efficacy, depression and age explained 19.3% variation in taking steps. Discussion: Instead of negative associations, we found that age, drinking severity, self‐stigma and depression were positively associated with RC. Younger patients with higher drinking severity, higher self‐stigma, higher self‐efficacy and severe depression are more likely to change alcohol use. Implications for practice: Mental health nurses should consider factors such as age, drinking severity, self‐stigma, self‐efficacy and depression, while trying to increase patients' RC. More specifically, strategies to increase self‐efficacy and interventions to support coping are needed. Relevance statement: Many ALD patients needing treatment for problematic alcohol use can be effectively managed in primary care with appropriate specialist support. An experienced specialist mental health nurse can play this role. Mental health nurses are important members of alcohol addiction treatment teams. Traditionally, most nurses working in alcohol therapy services have been mental health specialists and work in a partnership model with physicians and other healthcare professionals. The influencing factors found in this study can further inform mental health nurses to recognize and work more effectively with ALD patients' alcohol problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary: What is known on the subject?: Coercive interventions (CI) in emergency psychiatry face increasing criticism, as they can be an emotional, even traumatic event for all persons involved. They are thus considered the last resort.The use of coercive interventions differs widely with regard to type and frequency of measures across different countries and institutions.Individual staff characteristics, such as attitudes towards coercion, may play a vital role in the management of aggression.Little is known about the influence of emotions of staff members on CI, but they are likely to play an important role. What the paper adds to existing knowledge?: Most staff members surveyed had a rather critical view of coercion and considered it a "necessary evil."Staff members with the most work experience had a more critical view of coercion in comparison with less experienced staff. Nurses rated coercion more positively than did psychiatrists or psychologists.Emotions play an important role in decision‐making processes. The current study systematically asked for accompanying emotions during the application of CI and looked for individual differences. A majority of the participants experienced compassion; about half felt helplessness, grief or anxiety. Almost 20% stated that they felt a sense of power. Older staff members more often felt anger or guilt; women felt less power than men did. Nurses felt more desperation than other occupational groups.Staff members consider reflective interventions, such as team supervisions or post‐seclusion/restraint debriefings with the patient, as important. Nevertheless, only half reported that these interventions are carried out routinely.Staff members believe that certain risk factors (including stress, low staffing, a fully occupied ward and the presence of particular staff members) enhance the probability of CI. What are the implications for practice?: To reduce the use of coercive interventions, we recommend that psychiatric teams include highly experienced staff members as work experience has a positive effect on the attitudes towards coercive interventions.Structured post‐seclusion/restraint debriefings and team supervisions are considered helpful by staff members and are relatively easy to implement on acute wards. Enhancing staff members' ability to reflect on their own attitudes, emotions and actions is likely to reduce coercive interventions. Introduction: Little is known about staff attitudes towards coercive interventions (CI) and emotions accompanying these measures. Aim: The current study assessed attitudes, views on reflective interventions and accompanying emotions of different occupational groups towards CI, as well as factors, that increase the probability of CI. Method: Staff members (N = 138) of a large psychiatric hospital in Germany were assessed using the Staff Attitude to Coercion Scale (SACS) and newly developed items assessing staff members' emotions and views on coercion. Results: Experienced staff members were most critical of coercion. Nurses rated coercion significantly more positively than other staff. A majority experienced compassion; about half felt helplessness, grief or anxiety. Almost 20% felt a sense of power. Nurses felt the most desperation. Participants strongly desired reflective measures such as post‐seclusion/restraint debriefings with patients. According to staff members, stress on the wards and low staffing increases the probability of CI. Discussion: The study assessed accompanying emotions during the application of CI. Attitudes towards coercion and emotions are associated with individual staff characteristics (e.g. profession, work experience). Implications: The presence of experienced staff members may help prevent CI. Staff consider reflective interventions helpful in reducing CI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary: What is known on the subject?: AHDs in mental health are fundamental tools in advance care planning processes. It is an important method for involving mental healthcare users in clinical decisions and in providing effective healthcare based around user preferences.AHDs can be applied in situations in which the person may forfeit their legal capacity, according to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.However, the use of AHDs as described above is not yet a reality in Spain. What the paper adds to existing knowledge?: The present study surveys the knowledge and attitudes of mental healthcare providers towards AHDs in clinical practice.Although providers had a moderate–low level of knowledge about AHDs, they presented positive attitudes towards them. What are the implications for practice?: The use of AHDs in mental healthcare practice poses challenges to the Spanish mental healthcare system. Acquiring up‐to‐date data on the knowledge and attitudes of providers towards AHDs allows organizations to address aspects of their service that require reinforcement. This data could also be used by other countries just starting to use AHDs, as an initial step towards supporting the implementation of a multistage intervention process.More in‐depth training for providers would help improve their competence to implement or honour the statements set out in AHDs, the related legal and ethical issues, and liability issues related to their implementation.The Spanish mental healthcare system requires structural changes so that providers can embrace new ways of relating to users and to organize partnerships and a continuity of care centred on user preferences. Introduction: Advance healthcare directives (AHDs) in mental health offer important information regarding service users' preferences. However, whether AHDs are truly understood by providers is questionable. Aim: To survey the knowledge and attitudes of mental health professionals towards AHDs and examine any associations with sociodemographic and occupational variables. Method: We cross‐sectionally surveyed the knowledge and attitudes of 113 mental health professionals by using two validated questionnaires. Results: Participants showed very positive attitudes and high levels of knowledge about the conceptual definition and application of AHDs in clinical practice but their knowledge of the legalities, procedure and registration of AHDs was poor. Working in a community, having a career specializing in mental health or having personally signed an AHD was associated with enhanced knowledge about them. Moreover, female sex or employment as an auxiliary nursing‐care technician was associated with stronger positive attitudes. Discussion: Legal and structural changes will be needed to implement AHDs in Spain and to promote competence among healthcare providers in order to include AHDs in everyday practice. Implications for practice: The Spanish mental healthcare system requires legal and structural changes and must improve healthcare providers' competence in AHDs before they are implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary: What is known on the subject?: Internalized stigma in people diagnosed with mental illness has several negative outcomes; however, it remains unclear in an Indonesian context.The human rights of people diagnosed with mental illness in Indonesia have been routinely violated because of the existing stigma against mental illness and deficiencies in the country's mental healthcare services. What the paper adds to existing knowledge?: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to examine the level of internalized stigma and related factors among Indonesians diagnosed with schizophrenia.Almost one‐third of the subjects had moderate‐to‐severe levels of internalized stigma, among which discrimination was the strongest type.Specifically, younger and unemployed people with more psychotic symptoms had higher levels of internalized stigma. What are the implications for practice?: The provision of adequate pharmacological and psychosocial treatments to help people manage their psychotic symptoms is extremely important to ameliorate stigma.Vocational rehabilitation and employment support for unemployed people may potentially reduce their internalized stigma and promote recovery. Introduction: The human rights of people diagnosed with mental illness in Indonesia have been routinely violated because of societal stigma associated with mental illness and deficiencies in the country's mental healthcare services. Knowledge about internalized stigma among people diagnosed with schizophrenia in lower middle‐income Muslim countries is also scarce. Aim: To identify the level of internalized stigma and related factors among people diagnosed with schizophrenia in Indonesia. Method: A cross‐sectional survey was conducted with a purposive sample of 300 people diagnosed with schizophrenia from an urban Indonesian psychiatric hospital. Results: Almost one‐third of the subjects had moderate‐to‐severe levels of internalized stigma, among which discrimination was the strongest type. Younger age, unemployment status and having psychotic symptoms significantly increased the risk of internalized stigma when analysed in a multivariable ordinal logistic regression. Discussion: The present study firstly identified the high levels of internalized stigma among Indonesian individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. Implications for practice: Mental health nurses are suggested to provide early anti‐stigma illness management and family psychoeducation interventions to people diagnosed with schizophrenia and their family caregivers, helping them to develop an optimistic understanding about the concept of schizophrenia and mitigating the negative consequences of public and internalized stigma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary: What is known on the subject?: Schizophrenia is often related to cognitive deficits. Mental health nurses are involved in health promotion, prevention, treatment and rehabilitation in schizophrenia. However, the nursing literature addressing cognitive rehabilitation from schizophrenia is very limited.Cognition and its domains (communication, information processing, attentiveness, concentration, orientation, memory and calculation skills) are established by the Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC), but they are difficult to measure. What the paper adds to existing knowledge?: We present a new standardized cognitive assessment to be administered by nurses to people diagnosed with schizophrenia.The Brief Cognitive Scale for schizophrenia (BCog‐S) was validated in people with a diagnosis of schizophrenia (including people with schizoaffective disorder), using as references both the assessment of controls matched by age, sex and educational level, and another brief cognitive battery as the gold standard. What are the implications for practice?: Nurses can effectively use the BCog‐S to measure cognition and its domains in people with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. It is a standardized cognitive assessment consisting of a brief battery to be administered by nurses (and other professionals) to people diagnosed with schizophrenia. It is useful for establishing normative reference values for the outcome and its indicators.Using the BCog‐S, nurses can determine the cognitive status of the people diagnosed with schizophrenia they care for, measuring cognitive improvements, lapses or stability attributable to their rehabilitation. Nurses can demonstrate their contribution to cognitive rehabilitation with these measurements of improvement or stability. Introduction: Nurses play a key role in cognitive rehabilitation programs for people diagnosed with schizophrenia. Aim: To design and validate a brief battery to assess the cognitive status of people diagnosed with schizophrenia from the nursing perspective. Method: Study developed to evaluate a diagnostic test. The Brief Cognitive Scale for schizophrenia (BCog‐S) is a hybrid battery composed of previously validated brief tests, designed to meet the dimensions of cognition considered by the NOC. The psychometric properties of the instrument were measured using the Screening for Cognitive Impairment in Psychiatry‐Spanish version (SCIP‐S) as the gold standard, and against the scores obtained by matched controls. Results: About 100 people diagnosed with schizophrenia and 100 controls participated. The battery's internal consistency was 0.70. The Pearson correlation with the SCIP‐S was 0.80 (sensitivity = 0.86, specificity = 0.80). The mean T‐score of those diagnosed with schizophrenia was 2.2 standard deviations below that of the controls. There were significant differences in educational level, employment and cohabitation. Discussion: The BCog‐S showed acceptable psychometric properties. It can discriminate cognitive impairment and could be useful for establishing normative reference values. Implications for practice: Nurses can use the BCog‐S to measure cognition in people with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary: What is known on the subject?: Readiness for hospital discharge (RHD) has been an important topic for nurses.RHD can be measured by the Readiness for Hospital Discharge Scale (RHDS), including 4 subscales: personal status, knowledge, coping ability and expected support.There are few studies that focus on RHD in patients diagnosed with mental disorders. What does the paper add to existing knowledge?: Improving patient‐reported RHD can decrease the risks of unscheduled post‐discharge clinic visits, readmission and poor quality of life (QOL) in patients diagnosed with anxiety disorders.Improving patient‐reported personal status can decrease the risk of poor QOL in patients diagnosed with anxiety disorders.Improving patient‐reported knowledge can decrease the risks of unscheduled post‐discharge clinic visits and readmission in patients diagnosed with anxiety disorders.Improving patient‐reported expected support can decrease the risk of unscheduled post‐discharge clinic visits in patients diagnosed with anxiety disorders.Improving the methods of discharge teaching and anxiety severity can enhance RHD in patients diagnosed with anxiety disorders. What are the implications for practice?: Nurses could enhance patient‐reported RHD to reduce unscheduled post‐discharge medical resource utilization or improve QOL by facilitating knowledge acquisition and skill development and improving social support systems.Nurse managers could add RHD assessment to patients' discharge process and train nurses in the methods of discharge education.Nurses could advance their methods of discharge education, such as listening to and answering patients' questions, choosing a convenient time and engaging in online education. Introduction: The association between readiness for hospital discharge (RHD) and post‐discharge outcomes remains unclear in individuals with anxiety disorders. Aim: To explore the factors of RHD and the effect of patient‐reported RHD on post‐discharge outcomes. Method: In the observational study, 373 patients diagnosed with anxiety disorders completed the self‐administered Readiness for Hospital Discharge Scale (RHDS) on discharge. After 30 days, phone interviews were conducted to collect data on post‐discharge outcomes, including self‐reported unscheduled medical service utilization, symptom severity and quality of life (QOL). Multiple logistic regression models were built to explore the relationships among sociodemographic characteristics, the RHDS and its subscales, and post‐discharge outcomes. Results: The unscheduled clinic visits were significantly associated with low RHD, knowledge and expected support. Readmission was significantly associated with low RHD and knowledge. Poor QOL was significantly associated with low RHD and personal status. Delivery, received content and anxiety severity were the predictors of RHD. Discussion: Improved RHD is associated with fewer unscheduled clinic visits and readmissions and better QOL. Enhancing discharge education can improve RHD. Implications for practice: Nurses should enhance patient‐reported RHD to improve post‐discharge outcomes by advancing the quality of discharge education in patients diagnosed with anxiety disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary: What is known on the subject?: Positive aspects of care are considered an essential part of caregiving research. They have been related to a wide range of dimensions of the caregiving circumstances, but there are few valid, reliable and brief measures to assess them. One of the most frequently used internationally is the Positive Aspects of Caregiving (PAC) scale, whose psychometric properties have received little attention. What the paper adds to existing knowledge?: The present study analyses the psychometric properties of the Portuguese version of the PAC scale in a sample of informal caregivers of someone with dementia and further explores the association of different factors (e.g. caregiver health, sociodemographic variables) with the PAC.The Portuguese version of PAC scale presented good psychometric characteristics, and the factor analysis revealed the presence of two factors: affirming self and enriching life.Our study also verified that higher levels of PAC are more likely to be associated with better caregiver health perception, lower levels of psychological distress and burden, the care recipient's older age, providing care to more than one care recipient, not receiving social support services and not considering institutionalizing the care recipient. What are the implications for practice?: Findings from this study can assist professionals, including mental health nurses, to develop and implement effective interventions that help dementia caregivers to maintain their emotional health by identifying and focusing specific positive aspects of care. The study stresses the Portuguese version of the PAC scale as a reliable and valid measure for practice. Introduction: Positive aspects of care refer to the psychosocial benefits of caregiving. The Positive Aspects of Caregiving (PAC) scale is one of the instruments most frequently used internationally, but its psychometric properties and correlates within the caregiving experience have received limited attention. Aim: To examine the factorial structure of the Portuguese version of PAC scale and to analyse background and contextual factors that are more likely to be associated with higher levels of PAC. Method: The PAC scale, a sociodemographic questionnaire and measures assessing burden and physical and mental health were administered to 204 informal caregivers of dementia patients. Results: Exploratory factor analysis revealed a two‐factor structure; internal consistency was adequate. Higher scores were negatively correlated with caregiver burden and distress. Better health perception, care recipient's older age, providing care to more than one care recipient and overall self‐reliance were correlated with higher levels of PAC. Discussion: The PAC scale was found to be a reliable and valid measure. Dementia caregiving circumstances and caregivers' and care receivers' characteristics play an important role for the presence of PAC, but relate distinctively with its dimensions. Implications for Practice: Findings can help mental health nurses to recognize distinctive relations between PAC and caregiving variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary: What is known on the subject?: Mental health treatments have become patient‐centred. Evaluating recovery in people with mental health difficulties living in the community can help to develop better client‐centred services.Community integration is critical to recovery in patients with mental health difficulties. What does this paper add to existing knowledge?: This is the first study to use a single integrated measure of mental health recovery to evaluate the effect of community integration.Physical community integration was the easiest goal for most to reach. Developing independence/self‐actualization was harder.In mental health recovery, most people were able to overcome stuckness. Developing abilities for basic functioning was harder.Participating in mental health centre day programmes promoted mental health recovery in people with mental health difficulties living in the community.Independence/self‐actualization, psychological integration and social support improved mental health recovery in people with mental health difficulties living in the community. What are the implications for practice?: There is a need to develop and actively promote programmes that attract people with mental health difficulties living in the community so that they will actively use mental health centre services.Offering systematic social skills training and occupational rehabilitation therapy to people with mental health difficulties living in the community may help them function independently.Mental health service programmes should provide volunteer opportunities for people with mental health difficulties living in the community to facilitate a sense of belonging.Mental health nurses should serve as a social support resource for people with mental health difficulties living in the community by providing education to family and friends on how to support patients' recovery, and invigorating integration projects such as "making healthy friends." Introduction: Although community integration of people with mental health difficulties and a consumer‐centred recovery paradigm are of global importance, little research has been conducted on community integration factors that directly affect mental health recovery. Aim: This study investigated the relationship between community integration and mental health recovery in people with mental health difficulties living in the community in South Korea. Method: Data were collected from 155 people with mental health difficulties living in the community, using the Self‐Reporting Scale of Community Integration and the Mental Health Recovery Measure (Korean version), and analysed using hierarchical regression analysis. Results: Among the community integration subscales, independence/self‐actualization, psychological integration and social support were significant factors in mental health recovery, explaining 47.3% of the variance. Discussion: An effective intervention strategy for mental health recovery of people with mental health difficulties living in the community may reinforce community integration by carefully considering independence/self‐actualization, psychological integration and social support. Implications for practice: Mental health nurses should provide intervention to people with mental health difficulties living in the community to help them develop strategies for functioning independently, experiencing a sense of achievement and developing a sense belonging in the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary: What is known on the subject?: Depression affects 1 in 20 Americans, and people living with HIV experience depression at 2–3 times the rate of the general population.Recent research has shown that a person's level of social connectedness (e.g., social networks) is important to understanding their health and ability to get help when they need it.The scientific rationale of this work is to determine whether there is a direct relationship between levels of depression and a measure of social connectedness in people with HIV who are at higher than normal risk of depression and depressive symptoms. What this paper adds to existing knowledge?: We examined the relationship between levels of depression and social capital in people living with HIV to determine whether depression may influence their beliefs about their social connectedness and available resources.We found that as depression increases, self‐reported social capital decreases, suggesting that people living with HIV who are depressed may feel less socially connected and/or not be confident they can access resources when they need them. What are the implications for practice: Mental health nurses are particularly well‐positioned to help people living with HIV who are living with depression by helping them build skills for building and maintaining relationships, adhering to co‐administered HIV and mental health medical treatments, and helping these individuals to identify and address barriers to social connectedness.Helping people living with HIV to address depression and promoting social connectedness can not only improve quality of life, but have major long‐term health benefits. Introduction: People living with HIV (PLWH) are disproportionately burdened by depression, with estimates as high as 80% of PLWH reporting depressive symptoms. Depression in PLWH is complex, and has been linked with biological and psychosocial causes, including low social capital. Few studies have examined the relationship between social capital and depression in PLWH. Aim/Question: We conducted a secondary analysis of the relationship between social capital (Social Capital Scale score) and depression (Beck Depression Inventory‐II scores) to determine whether depression predicted levels of social capital in a sample of 108 PLWH. Results: Depression was significantly associated with lower social capital r(105) = −.465 p <.001. Depression remained a significant predictor of social capital in the linear regression model, F(5,101) = 8.508, p <.000, R2 = 0.296, when controlling for age and education level. Discussion: Our results suggest that depression may be a significant predictor of low social capital, and these factors may have cyclical relationships that explain persistent depression in this population. Implications for practice: Mental health nurses are particularly well‐positioned to help PLWH who are living with depression by helping them build skills for building and maintaining relationships, adhering to co‐administered HIV and mental health medical treatments, and helping these individuals to identify and address barriers to social connectedness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary: What is known about this subject?: Burnout is a prominent issue in psychiatric nursing and associated with significant adverse consequences for staff, service users and at an organizational level.Exploration of the extent and predictors of burnout in secure settings has received little research attention. It is not fully understood why prevalence rates of burnout in forensic settings are not elevated in comparison to other settings, despite the presence of known risk‐related correlates. What this paper adds to existing knowledge?: In contrast to previous research, findings suggest that clinical supervision may not be an effective, stand‐alone intervention to support staff experiencing burnout. Thus, the current focus on clinical supervision to mitigate burnout may be insufficient in forensic services.The ward environment (specifically how safe staff feel, how therapeutic the ward feels and how well service users relate to one another) was found to be more important than clinical supervision in terms of burnout for forensic psychiatric nursing staff. What are the implications for practice?: Policies regarding staff health and well‐being should be developed with due consideration given to the association between burnout and the working environment.It should not be assumed that clinical supervision is sufficient to mitigate burnout in practice. Further research assessing all types of support and the ward environment is needed to gain a better understanding of its relationship to burnout. Introduction: Despite extensive research examining burnout in psychiatric nursing staff, literature exploring key predictors of burnout in secure psychiatric settings has been relatively neglected. Research has yet to explore burnout in these settings by adopting previously identified predictors such as support or the ward environment. Aim: The current study aimed to reduce this gap by exploring burnout, the perceived effectiveness of clinical supervision and ward environment. Method: In 2014, nursing staff working in a medium secure forensic psychiatric unit in the United Kingdom (N = 137) provided demographic information and completed the measures assessing: Burnout, clinical supervision and the ward environment. Results: Approximately 10% of nursing staff could be classed as "burnt‐out". The main predictors of burnout were age and ward environment. Clinical supervision had minimal association with burnout. Discussion: The current study sheds doubt on clinical supervision as a potential intervention for burnout and results appear comparable to research within other settings. The implications of the ward environment, supervision and burnout are discussed herein. Implication for Practice: Interventions may need to focus on a positive ward environment (including patient cohesion, experienced safety and enhancing the therapeutic atmosphere). Organizations should support younger nursing staff as they appear particularly vulnerable to burnout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary What is known on the subject? Despite the increase of studies into the predictors of psychological distress, few have attempted to address the mediation of stress in the relationship between early trauma and psychological distress., What does this paper add to existing knowledge? In this study, college students with trauma exposure before the age of 18 years reported high levels of college life stress and psychological distress. In addition, of the subcategories of early trauma, emotional abuse was most highly correlated with current stress and psychological distress., This paper confirmed the partial mediating effect of stress between early trauma and psychological distress among Korean college students. In other words, this study found a direct effect of early trauma on current psychological distress and an indirect effect of early trauma on psychological distress mediated through life stress., What are the implications for practice? Early trauma and stress should be considered when developing interventions for college students' mental health, although individuals with trauma exposure have difficulties disclosing their traumatic event. Therefore, we suggest that stress management may be easier to apply and more effective in promoting college students' mental health than trauma-focused interventions., Abstract Introduction Research has shown that early trauma and stress may affect current psychological distress. However, few studies have attempted to address the mediation of stress between early trauma and psychological distress. Aim This cross-sectional observational study aimed to examine the mediating effects of stress on the association between early trauma and psychological distress in Korean college students. Method Participants included 216 college students (51.4% male) who completed self-report questionnaires assessing early trauma, college life stress, and psychological distress. Results Early trauma, stress, and psychological distress were significantly correlated. Of the subcategories of early trauma, emotional abuse was most highly correlated with stress and psychological distress. The bootstrapping results indicate that stress is a partial mediator between early trauma and psychological distress after controlling for covariates including socioeconomic status, habitation status, and gender. Discussion The results imply that both early trauma and stress should be considered when developing interventions for college students' mental health. However, individuals with trauma exposure tend to have difficulties disclosing their traumatic event. Therefore, we suggest that stress management may be more feasible and effective in promoting college students' mental health than trauma-focused interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary: What is known on the subject?: Physical appearance, as in the case of individuals with physical disabilities who use a cane, walker or wheelchair, also influence others' reactions and as a result, may lead to one's negative or positive feelings and thoughts.A disability that is not observable by others, as in the case of individuals with psychiatric disabilities (mental illnesses), may also have a negative impact on one's feelings and thoughts, due to stigma associated with psychiatric disabilities.To date, research has mainly focused on the way persons with a noticeable type of disability think about themselves. It is also important to evaluate the impact of disability type on ones' feelings and thoughts, and compare persons with visible and invisible disabilities. What the paper adds to existing knowledge?: We asked 119 adults (over the age of 18 years) with different types of disabilities to complete a set of questionnaires and found that those who had a disability that was not observable by others (a psychiatric disability) felt more negative about themselves and their body than those who had a disability that was observable by others (a physical disability).The study extends the current knowledge on the impact of disability type and its visibility on the way persons with disabilities think about themselves. What are the implications for practice?: The findings suggest that healthcare services should be modified to address the psychological needs of people with different types of disability.Mental health nurses should identify practices in the community that will improve the feelings and thoughts of consumers with disabilities, and especially those who cope with a psychiatric disability. Introduction: Individuals with disabilities often face stigma and discrimination, which may negatively affect their self‐concept. To date, research has mainly focused on the psychological implications of living with a noticeable physical disability. Less attention has been given to individuals with invisible psychiatric disabilities as a stigmatized subgroup in the disability community. Aim: To evaluate the impact of disability type and its visibility on the self‐concept and body image. Method: A cross‐sectional quantitative study design was implemented to compare the self‐concept and body image of individuals with visible physical disabilities and individuals with invisible psychiatric disabilities (n = 119). Pearson correlations, ANOVA and multiple linear regression models were performed. Results: Individuals with invisible psychiatric disabilities reported lower levels of self‐concept and body image compared to individuals with visible physical disabilities. Gender, family status and the severity level of the disability were found to be associated with self‐concept and body image. Discussion: The study extends the current knowledge by showing that disability visibility might play a protective role for persons with physical disabilities compared to persons with psychiatric disabilities. Implications for Practice: Mental health nurses should apply practices to enhance the self‐concept and body image of consumers with invisible psychiatric disabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary: What is known on the subject?: Mothers with mental health problems are at risk of well‐being and experience lack of support.There is little research focusing on the effect of household composition on health of Hispanic mothers with mental illness.As the family is a central feature in Hispanic lives and there is a high dependence on the family for help, it is crucial to understand how household composition and family functioning influences Hispanic mothers' health and well‐being. What does the paper adds to existing knowledge?: Living with at least one other adult in the household are related to better Hispanic mothers' physical and psychological health.Mothers living with a greater number of adult in the house are more likely to have fatigue and depression.More family hassles are associated with worse health outcomes in Hispanic mothers with mental health problems What are the implications for practice?: There is a need to assess family members who are supportive to Hispanic mothers and to address families' basic needs in the intervention.Interventions for Hispanic mothers with mental health problems should be grounded in supporting the strengths of the Hispanic familial networks.A family‐centred approach for mothers with mental health problems requires integrated assessments and interventions including the families as units. Introduction: Household composition is seen as a critical factor for recovery of Hispanic mothers with mental illness, but little research has examined the relationship of household composition and health. Aim: This study examined how household composition and family functioning impact on both physical and psychological health of Hispanic mothers receiving outpatient mental health services. Method: The study analysed baseline data of 137 Hispanic mothers participating in a randomized trial of "Healthy Home," a family‐strengthening home health intervention. A bilingual (English/Spanish) research assessor interviewed participants regarding household composition, family hassles, family cohesion and mother's physical and psychological health. Results: Mothers living with at least one other adult and having fewer family hassles had better health outcomes. Mothers living with a greater number of adult in the house were more likely to have fatigue and depression. Discussion: Hispanic mothers having no adults to help them in the house are less able to maintain their physical and psychological health. A family‐centred approach for mothers requires integrated assessments and interventions including the families as units. Implication for practice: Interventions for Hispanic mothers with mental health problems should be grounded in supporting the values and strengths of the Hispanic familial networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary: What is known on the subject?: Weight suppression (WS) has been suggested to predict outcome following psychological treatment for an eating disorder (ED). Some findings are contradictory and have not been considered systematically. What the paper adds to existing knowledge?: The review suggests that weight gain at post‐treatment is reliably predicted by pretreatment WS, but findings regarding other outcomes (e.g., treatment dropout) are less consistent. Approximate effect sizes for observed relationships are identified, alongside support for biobehavioural theories of metabolic adaptation to weight loss. What are the implications for practice?: Degree of WS at pretreatment is associated with weight gain and is important for clinicians to consider before offering treatment to patients with EDs. Patients high in WS might benefit from further support (e.g., psychoeducation) prior to beginning treatment. Abstract: Introduction: Weight suppression (WS—the difference between highest body weight and current body weight) has been proposed as a predictor of treatment outcome within eating disorders (EDs), although this hypothesis has not been consistently supported. Aim/Question: Review the association between pretreatment WS and outcome following psychological treatment for EDs. Method: A comprehensive electronic database search for published and unpublished literature from 1979 to 2017. Reference lists were also inspected. Eligibility criteria were determined according to relevant guidelines and a quality appraisal was conducted. Results: Twelve studies met inclusion criteria (one was subsequently excluded based on insufficient data). Greater WS was generally associated with weight gain at post‐treatment although not with other treatment outcomes. Discussion: The existing evidence, with data from 1,566 participants, is summarized according to three main post‐treatment outcomes: weight change; treatment completion; and symptom abstinence. Patients with disordered eating and greater WS may need to gain more weight than others during treatment to achieve good outcomes. Recommendations for future studies are provided. Implications for practice: Evidence‐based treatments for EDs may benefit from considering WS when planning treatment, such as further psychoeducation on weight changes. Societal interventions regarding promotion of healthy eating may also draw on these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary: What is known on the subject?: Psychological distress is a major health concern, and university student populations are at a risk due to high academic, economic and interpersonal demands at this time. While a number of studies have been conducted looking at distress and service uptake amongst university students, there is a lack of comparative information in the student nurse population. Therefore, this study focuses on level of psychological distress and service uptake in student nurses during their training. Student nurses in training are acknowledged as particularly vulnerable to anxiety and depression. Anxiety and depression can interfere with educational achievement and interfere with working relationships, which are an important aspect of clinical practice. What this paper adds to existing knowledge?: This study investigates psychological distress and service uptake in student nurses, in a single study, by measuring the level of distress and comparing this with adult nonpatient norms. The key findings suggest high levels of anxiety and depression and poor uptake of support in student nurses. The main barrier to seeking support was the fear of disclosure about their anxiety and/or depression, and feared impact on their suitability to train as a nurse. What are the implications for practice?: Due to the fear of disclosure and low levels of support seeking, mental health nurses and academics have a key role to play in mental health literacy. It seems reasonable, given the key findings, to suggest that interventions be directed at decreasing anxiety and depression such as mindfulness training and other evidence‐based strategies. It is recommended that psychological distress needs due attention from higher education sector and those health professionals involved in mental health service provision to support evidence‐based strategies that target these issues. Abstract: Introduction: This study adds to the existing international evidence on psychological distress in the student population by focusing on student nurses. It quantitatively assesses psychological distress with comparative norms and investigates service uptake in a single study. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the level of psychological distress in students and compare this with population norms and highlight potential facilitators and barriers to help seeking. Methods: This study recruited N = 121 student nurses from one university in a cross‐sectional design. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, independent t tests and one‐way ANOVAs. Findings: The key findings show high levels of psychological distress, which is above levels seen in the general population. The main barriers to seeking support were fear of disclosure and the perceived impact on their suitability as a student nurse. Discussion: The study highlights that high levels of distress identified in the literature are seen in student nurses and that fear of disclosure may account for some not seeking support. Relevance: The fear of disclosure and low levels of seeking support suggest there is a need for mental health nurses and academics to play a key role in mental health literacy and evidence‐based interventions such as mindfulness to combat these issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary: What is known on the subject?: Although it is well known that coping with mental disorder is a traumatic experience, studies of the relationships between posttraumatic growth and the variables that can affect it are rarely found in the literature. The studies that do exist usually focus on posttraumatic growth after posttraumatic stress disorder has developed as a result of traumatic life events such as earthquakes, wars, accidents or physical disease. In the literature, there exist few studies of patients diagnosed with psychosis. What does this paper add to existing knowledge?: This study shows that posttraumatic growth can be seen in patients after the diagnosis of mental disorders. Patients who use effective coping methods show more posttraumatic growth. In addition, patients who are satisfied with the nursing care received in the clinic show more posttraumatic growth. This indicates that care delivered by psychiatric nurses contributes to the posttraumatic growth of the patients. What are the implications for practice?: Psychiatric nurses who recognize that suffering a mental disorder is a traumatic experience and that patients can grow from this experience can contribute to the posttraumatic growth of those in their care. When they see signs of posttraumatic growth, nurses can teach patients how to cope with that stress effectively and how to share their feelings, thoughts and experiences related to the situation. In addition, psychosocial interventions such as trauma‐focused cognitive behavioural therapy and eye movement desensitization can be used to aid posttraumatic growth. Abstract: Introduction: Although it is recognized that suffering a mental illness is a traumatic experience, the fact that this can lead to posttraumatic growth and the variables that may affect the situation are rarely discussed in the literature. Aim: This study was conducted to determine the effects of coping styles and nursing care perceptions on posttraumatic growth in mental disorders. Method: The descriptive study was conducted at a psychiatric clinic with a personal information form and three‐scale test. Results: In the study, completed with 122 psychiatric inpatients, it was found that patients were using effective methods to cope with stress, were satisfied with nursing care and had high posttraumatic growth. Moreover, it was found that effective coping styles and satisfaction with nursing care positively affected the posttraumatic growth level of patients. Discussion: The results support the proposition that using effective coping styles and seeking professional support after traumatic life events influence posttraumatic growth levels. Implications for practice: Psychiatric nurses should be aware of the fact that developing a mental disorder is a traumatic life event after which posttraumatic growth can occur. They should encourage posttraumatic growth by teaching effective coping methods, providing psychiatric care and using psychosocial interventions such as trauma‐focused cognitive behavioural therapy and eye movement desensitization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible Summary: What is known on the subject: Person‐centered care, as compared to standard approaches, is a widely accepted, evidence‐based approach for managing aggressive behaviour in persons with dementia. The attitudes, beliefs and values of long‐term care and mental health nursing employees are important prerequisites to implementing person‐centered practices. Research shows that nursing employees typically support person‐centered approaches; however, less is known about the attitudes of non‐nursing employee groups. What this paper adds to existing knowledge: Nurse managers and administrators tended to agree with person‐centered approaches for managing aggression in dementia, suggesting some prerequisites are in place to support wider adoption of person‐centered frameworks. Employees with more resident contact tended to support person‐centered approaches the least, suggesting discipline‐specific trainings may not be adequate for preparing frontline staff to use person‐centered techniques. Attitudes towards aggressive behaviour may be especially varied and contradictory within certain employee groups, providing implications for facility‐wide initiatives. Implications for practice: Person‐centered values and practices should be monitored and reinforced across the organization. Person‐centered trainings should be interdisciplinary in nature and focused on care areas, such as mealtime or bathing. Long‐term care facilities should consider allowing nurse management and registered nurses to share the burden of direct resident care with frontline employees on a more regular basis. Abstract: Introduction: Implementing person‐centered care requires shared attitudes, beliefs and values among all care employees. Existing research has failed to examine the attitudes of non‐nursing employees. Aim: This study examined attitudes towards aggression among nursing and non‐nursing employees to address gaps in existing research and assess readiness for wider adoption of person‐centered frameworks. Method: The Management of Aggression in People with Dementia Attitude Questionnaire was used to survey attitudes of employees in Michigan‐based nursing homes. Results: Overall, employees preferred person‐centered over standard approaches. Job title was a significant predictor of paradigm support. Frontline employees were found to support person‐centered attitudes the least. Wide‐ranging responses were noted within employee groups. Discussion: Job title may influence the degree to which an employee supports and utilizes person‐centered approaches. Employees with the most contact with persons with dementia may be the least likely to implement person‐centered approaches. In contrast to prior studies, years of experience was not a significant predictor of attitude towards aggressive behaviour. Wide‐ranging responses indicate that employee attitudes are varied and complex. Implications: Person‐centered approaches should be trained within care areas rather than individual employee groups. Programs should be interdisciplinary and seek to establish a shared understanding of person‐centered beliefs and values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary • Crime remains a major social problem in the UK (as well as in many other parts of the world). • The effects of crime on the health of victims (especially mental well-being), and how it affects their social behaviour (for example, whether or not victims become more socially isolated than they were before becoming a victim), is not well understood. • There are particular groups of people in society who are vulnerable to crime, one of which is university students. • This paper reports on a preliminary study of how crime affects the health (and social behaviour) of students from three universities in the UK. • The results from the study (which surveyed 886 students), indicate that for a sizable minority of the students who are victims of crime there are serious psychological negative effects. Furthermore, the fear of crime did appear to alter the social behaviour of a majority of the students (noticeably that of women). In this paper we report on the findings from a preliminary study in the UK into the effects of crime on health. The aim of the study was to investigate what victims of crime report to be the effects of both actual crime and the fear of crime on their physical and psychological health (as well as social well-being) and what actions they take (if any) to deal with these effects. A survey method was adopted using a modified version of the 'Health, Quality of Life and Crime Questionnaire' with 866 undergraduate student respondents from three UK universities. University students were selected as the sample population because, as a group, they form a specific 'victim community'. Conclusions extrapolated from the respondents' replies were first, there are serious negative health effects (particularly on psychological health) of a considerable minority of those students who are victims of crime. Second, the vast majority of the victims did not initiate any health intervention. Third, a large minority of the victims did not report the crime to the police. Fourth, a majority of both victims and non-victims suffered psychological negative effects from the fear of crime. Fifth, there is a huge gender imbalance among those affected by crime with female students much more fearful of crime than men. Moreover, female students were much more likely to use specific strategies to lower the risk of crime. These conclusions suggest that there may be important policy implications for universities, the police, victim support organizations and mental health services, regarding the effects of crime on students. This study is intended as a preliminary stage for subsequent in-depth and larger projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary What is known on the subject? Caregivers of adolescents with ADHD experience major difficulties as care providers and are in need of guidance and support., Adolescents with ADHD may develop oppositional and criminal behaviour. More than 50 % have the symptoms in adulthood, and up to one-fourth with severe emotional or antisocial difficulties., There is a lack of evidence of caregivers′ supporting intervention although caregiver groups have been found to contribute to better coping, decreased stress and improvements in ADHD symptoms., What does this paper add to existing knowledge? Primary caregivers of adolescents with ADHD experienced better quality of life after the Therapeutic Conversation Intervention., The intervention contributed to better social functioning among secondary caregivers., What are the implications for practice? The content of the Therapeutic Conversation Intervention is significant and highlights the utility of a combination of group and private sessions for caregivers of people with ADHD., The intervention can influence how services for families are organized, such that a Therapeutic Conversation Intervention could be offered on a regular basis., Abstract Introduction Caregivers of adolescents with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder are burdened with tasks and many suffer from distress. Adolescents with ADHD may develop antisocial behaviour and caregiver′s group can empower caregiver's supporting role. Aim/Question To evaluate the effectiveness of a Therapeutic Conversation Intervention on caregivers of adolescents with ADHD regarding strengthening the supportive role. Method The study utilized a quasi-experimental design. The participants ( n = 60) were caregivers of adolescents (13-17 years old) with ADHD. The intervention consisted in-group and parent sessions. The Calgary Family Model and the Family Illness Beliefs Model were used as theoretical frameworks. Results The study revealed significant differences in the improvement of quality of life; regarding primary caregiver ( PC) worry, daily activities, family relationships and collaboration post-intervention, as well emotional functioning at both post-intervention and follow-up. Secondary caregiver ( SC) social functioning was significantly improved at follow-up. Discussion The intervention proved to be beneficial to the caregivers and is filling a gap in much needed intervention. Implication for practice The results will expand health care professionals' knowledge of how to increase PC quality of life when supporting their adolescent with ADHD. This treatment information should improve service at health care centres/hospitals where adolescents with ADHD receive care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary What is known on the subject? Panic disorder patients display various panic-related physical symptoms and catastrophic misinterpretation of bodily sensations, which lower their quality of life by interfering with daily activities. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a useful strategy for panic disorder patients to manage symptoms associated with inaccurate cognitive interpretation of situations resulting from the patient's cognitive vulnerability. In South Korea, however, despite the increasing prevalence of panic disorder, CBT is not a common element of nursing care plans for panic disorder patients. Moreover, few Korean researchers have attempted to assess the effects of CBT on such patients., What this paper add to existing knowledge? In a strategy combining CBT and routine treatments, patients with panic disorder can experience greater positive effects in the acute treatment phase than those they experience when receiving only routine treatment., What are the implications for practice? Mental health professionals, especially psychiatric nurses in local clinics who operate most special mental health programmes for panic disorder patients, should apply a panic disorder management programme that integrates CBT and routine treatments. The integrated approach is more effective for reducing the number of panic attacks and cognitive misinterpretation in patients than providing routine treatment alone., For patients with panic disorder, the objective of CBT is to understand the relationship between psychological panic disorder sensations, emotions, thoughts and behaviours. Therefore, nurses can help patients address and improve biological, social and psychological aspects of physical health problems as well as help them improve their coping skills in general., Abstract Introduction In panic disorder, sensitivity to bodily sensations increases due to the patient's cognitive vulnerability. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can help to decrease sensitivity to bodily sensations by correcting these cognitive distortions by controlling negative thoughts and panic attacks. Aims This study verified whether group CBT is more effective than treatment as usual (TAU) in South Korean patients with panic disorder. Methods The study participants consisted of 76 panic disorder patients. Patients in the therapy condition attended sessions once a week for a total of 12 sessions in addition to drug treatment. Results In the therapy condition, there were significant decreases in panic-related bodily sensations and ranking and belief scores for catastrophic misinterpretation of external events. Discussion Group CBT, in comparison to TAU, decreases panic and agoraphobia symptom severity in South Korean patients with panic disorder. Our study provides evidence for the effectiveness of a panic disorder management programme that integrates group CBT and traditional pharmacotherapeutic treatment for patients with panic disorder. Implications for Practice The cognitive behavioural approach is needed to reduce panic and agoraphobia symptoms for hospitalized patients with panic disorder more than activity therapies, medications and supportive counselling by doctors and nurses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary What is known on the subject? Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disorder associated with high perceived psychological stress., The attachment theory provides a psychodynamic perspective to investigate the relationship between close interpersonal relationships and stress in UC., Researchers have hypothesized that the chronic illness might affect personality trait as the attachment style of patients., What this paper adds to existing knowledge? UC patients exhibit a more pronounced attachment insecurity that, in turn, resulted as a determinant of psychological stress., This study suggests that UC could determine a shift towards insecurity in the attachment style that, in turn, promotes psychological stress and increases the risk of psychopathologies., What are the implications for practice? The more accurate knowledge of attachment insecurity in patients with chronic disorders such as UC may help the nurses to face with often dysfunctional patients' styles of manifesting distress, patterns of help seeking and expectations of health professionals., The knowledge of psychopathological mechanisms in patients with UC could improve the prevention and treatment of psychological disorders in affected patients., Abstract Introduction Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic disorder characterized by recurrent intestinal symptoms. The attachment theory provides a psychodynamic perspective to investigate the relationship between interpersonal relationships and stress in UC. Aim The aim of this study was to compare the attachment dimensions between UC patients and controls and to evaluate the impact of these dimensions on perceived stress in patients. Method In all, 101 patients with UC completed the attachment style questionnaire and the perceived stress questionnaire (PSQ). Clinical and psychometric parameters were added as predictor variables in a regression with the PSQ score as dependent variable. One hundred and five healthy subjects took part in the study as controls. Results Compared to controls, UC patients exhibited greater scores in relationships as secondary, need for approval and preoccupation with relationships. In UC, disease activity, confidence and preoccupation with relationships resulted predictors of perceived stress. Discussion Compared to healthy controls, UC patients exhibited more pronounced attachment insecurity that, in turn, was a significant predictor of the perceived stress. Implications for practice The knowledge of attachment insecurity may help the nurses and all health care providers to face with dysfunctional patients' styles of manifesting distress, help seeking and expectations of health professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary What is known on the subject? Problematic parent-child relationships have been identified as one of the main predictors of adolescents' mental health problems, but there are few existing interventions that address this issue., The format and delivery method of existing interventions for parents are relatively inaccessible for parents with full-time jobs and families living in rural areas., What does this paper add to existing knowledge? The newly developed 'Stepping Stone' culturally specific web-based intervention, which is intended to help Korean parents of adolescents to acquire both knowledge and communication and conflict management skills, was found to be feasible and well-accepted by parents., This study enabled us to identify areas for improvement in the content and format of the intervention and strategies. This will potentially increase effect sizes for the outcome variables of parents' perception and behaviours., What are the implications for practice? This web-based intervention could be delivered across diverse settings, such as schools and community mental health centers, to increase parents' knowledge of adolescent's mental health and allow for early detection of mental health problems., Mental health nurses working in schools may spend a significant amount of time addressing students' mental health issues; thus, this web-based intervention could be a useful resource to share with parents and children. In this way, the mental health nurses could facilitate parental engagement in the intervention and then help them to continue to apply and practice the knowledge and skills obtained through the program., Abstract Introduction There is a need for accessible, culturally specific web-based interventions to address parent-child relationships and adolescents' mental health. Aims This study developed and conducted a preliminary evaluation of a 4-week web-based intervention for parents of adolescents aged 11 to 16 years in Korea. Methods We used a two-group, repeated measures, quasi-experimental study design to assess the feasibility of developing and implementing a web-based intervention for parents. Descriptive statistics, chi-square and t tests, and mixed effect modeling were used for data analysis. Results The intervention and 1-month follow-up survey were completed by 47 parents in the intervention group and 46 parents in the attention control (AC) group. The intervention was found to be feasible and well-accepted by parents. Discussion This culturally specific web-based intervention is a useful tool for knowledge dissemination among large numbers of parents. Areas for improvement in the content and format of the intervention and strategies to elicit significant parent-child interactions are provided. Implications for practice and conclusion The intervention could be disseminated in collaboration with mental health nurses working in schools to facilitate parents' participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: A culturally adaptive and easy‐to‐administer 12‐item Caregiving Rewarding Feelings (CRF) scale has been developed in China yet never published in English and validated in another population. Aim: The current study aimed to validate the CRF among a community sample of Chinese caregivers of those diagnosed with schizophrenia. Method: A sample of 449 family caregivers was recruited for scale validation that included factorial validity, construct validity, measurement invariance, item analysis, internal consistency reliability, test–retest reliability, known‐group validity, convergent validity and divergent validity. Results: Confirmatory factor analysis supported the a priori three‐factor structure. Construct validity was supported by high standard regression weight (SRW) and average variance extracted (AVE), measurement invariance across age and gender groups. The CRF showed good internal consistency and test–retest reliability. Known‐group validity was confirmed by the higher CRF scores among caregivers with certain socio‐demographics. The convergent validity of the CRF was supported by its positive correlations with social support, active coping and family functioning. The divergent validity of the CRF was supported by its negative associations with stigma, stress and depressive symptoms. Conclusions: This study confirmed the reliability and validity of the CRF specifically designed for caregivers in Chinese culture. Implications for Practice: The CRF may be further applied and validated in other populations and other countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary What is known on the subject? Despite the increased interest in nursing students' happiness in South Korea, few studies have attempted to identify factors influencing their happiness. Therefore, nursing educators should consistently investigate the factors influencing happiness and develop strategies to improve happiness among Korean nursing students., What this paper adds to existing knowledge? This study confirmed that there were positive correlations between grateful disposition, social support and happiness. In addition, grateful disposition and support from intimate people were identified as predictors of happiness in Korean nursing students., What are the implications for practice? Development of intervention programmes to help nursing students increase grateful disposition and support from intimate people may be helpful for improving happiness. These programmes can include activity, such as writing a gratitude journal, and extracurricular programmes, such as mentoring programmes between seniors and juniors and/or professor and student., Abstract Introduction Happiness is very important in the training and development of nursing students as future nurses. However, nursing students experience a high level of stress and low level of happiness in South Korea. Aim This study aimed to investigate factors that affect happiness among nursing students in South Korea. Method Data were collected from a total of 241 nursing enrolled in two 4-year baccalaureate nursing programmes in South Korea, using a self-administrated questionnaire. To identify predictors of happiness, stepwise regression analysis was conducted. Results The results indicated that grateful disposition and support from intimate people significantly predict happiness among Korean nursing students. These two factors accounted for 38.0% of the variance in happiness. Discussion This study indicated grateful disposition and support from intimate people as factors promoting happiness in nursing students. The findings highlight grateful disposition and support from intimate people as important factors when developing effective interventions that foster nursing students' happiness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary What is known on the subject? Frailty and multimorbidity are common in later life. A higher level of frailty is associated with a higher risk of adverse physical and psychological health situations., Older adults with pain have been reported to be lonelier and more depressed, as well as less happy and less satisfied with their life as compared to those without pain., In view of the high prevalence of pain among older adults and the reversibility of frailty, it is important to explore the relationship between pain, frailty and psychological parameters in order to devise patient-centred interventions., What this paper adds to existing knowledge? Frailty index is positively correlated with the presence of pain, and associated with gender, functional mobility and loneliness., Among these significant variables, loneliness was the factor that contributed the most to the frailty index., What are the implications for practice? It is essential to put the focus of healthcare on both the physical and psychological aspects of well-being., All nurses are advised to improve the management of pain in older people in order to lower the levels of pain, frailty and psychological distress among this population., Nursing care should address the loneliness level especially the problem of social loneliness among older adults particularly those living in nursing homes., Abstract Introduction In view of the high prevalence of pain among older adults and the reversibility of frailty, it is important to explore the relationship between pain, frailty and psychological parameters in order to devise patient-centred interventions. Aim To examine the levels of frailty, pain and psychological parameters among older adults living in Hong Kong nursing homes, and the cross-sectional relationships among these items. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 178 residents from six nursing homes. Frailty, pain, mobility, happiness, loneliness and life satisfaction of participants were assessed using validated questionnaires. Results A multiple linear regression ( R2 = 0.338, P < 0.05) showed that the frailty index was associated with loneliness, functional mobility and gender. Among these significant variables, loneliness was the factor that contributed the most to the frailty index. Discussion It is essential to put the focus of healthcare on both the physical and psychological aspects of well-being. Findings suggest that apart from improving mobility and reducing pain, loneliness could be a target of psychosocial interventions to reduce frailty and improve quality of life. Implications for practice It is advised that nursing care should address loneliness, especially the problem of social loneliness among older adults particularly those living in nursing homes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary What is known on the subject? Some research suggests that holding a free will perspective may offer mental health and physical health benefits., What this paper adds to existing knowledge? This study is the first to examine links between free will perceptions and psychiatric symptoms in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia., What are the implications for practice? Study results suggest that helping people with a diagnosis of schizophrenia to recognize situations where they do have some freedom of choice over their actions and emotional reactions (free will) may assist them in improving their experiences and better managing their symptoms., Abstract Introduction Some research indicates that having a strong sense that one possesses free will may be associated with better psychological and physical health. This study is the first to examine the relationship between free will perceptions and psychiatric symptoms in patients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. Method Thirty-two participants were interviewed using the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale to assess symptom severity and the Free Will Subscale of the Free Will and Determinism Scale to assess free will perceptions. Results As hypothesized, a negative association was found between free will perceptions and total symptom severity, though it appears that this was mainly accounted for by positive symptoms. A content analysis was also conducted to qualitatively examine how patients conceptualize the construct of free will and its role in coping with their own mental illness. Discussion Study results suggest that holding a free will perspective may mitigate psychiatric symptoms in patients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. Thus, psychiatric nurses and other mental health clinicians may improve current treatments for schizophrenia by helping patients recognize situations where they do have some freedom of choice over their actions and emotional reactions (free will) to stressful life events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary What is known on the subject? Many studies indicate that working with people with a personality disorder is a real challenge, which is especially known by professionals, and it also displays different attitudes that can affect their professional stance. There is no specific study examining those difficulties, emotional reactions and attitudes of mental health professionals towards people with a PD in Turkey., What this paper adds to existing knowledge? We examined emotional reactions, difficulties and attitudes of mental health professionals towards people with a PD and also the interaction between these variables. We found a strong relationship between MHWs' feelings of boredom/discontent, guilt/pity and a tendency to display positive behaviours/an inability of establishing boundaries against people with a PD. Besides, a higher level of education resulted in reduced experience of difficulties while working with patients with a diagnosis of 'PD' among nurses., What are the implications for practice? Mental health professionals and especially nurses who spend most of their time working with people with PD in the inpatient services need to be well educated and be experienced in coping with patients' relational problems and emotional fluctuations, and also be aware of their own emotional reactions., Abstract Introduction Working with people with a personality disorder ( PD) can arouse strong feelings, and cause difficulties as well as different attitudes among mental health workers ( MHWs). While attitudes towards people with PD and the difficulties experienced by MHWs have been previously investigated, the reciprocal relationship between the two has not been thoroughly investigated. Aim/Question This study aims to investigate (1) affective reactions of MHWs to people with personality disorders, (2) the difficulties that MHWs experience while working with these patients, (3) their attitudes towards these patients, and (4) the interaction between these variables. Method The data for this study were collected through a Personal Information Questionnaire, the Difficulty of Working with Personality Disorders Scale and the Attitudes towards Patients with Personality Disorders Scale from 332 MHWs from several mental health clinics in Turkey, all of whom were experienced in working with people with PD. Results The results indicate that the participants described 'difficulty in forming a relationship, understanding the client, and estab lishing cooperation' among the primary reasons of difficulties. This study also shows that there is a strong relationship between MHWs' feelings of boredom/discontent, guilt/pity and a tendency to display positive behaviours/an inability of establishing borders against people with PD. Discussion The findings of this study imply that the level of education, expertise, psychotherapy treatment and clinical supervision of MHWs all affect perceived difficulties and attitudes towards people with PD. It is also noted that among nurses, a higher level of education results in reduced experience of difficulties while working with patients with PD. Implication for practice The results foreground the need for specific skills to be developed in MHWs through theoretical training, case-focused supervision and receiving personal psychotherapy for MHWs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary What is known on the subject? Suicide is a global mental health issue. Taking care of suicidal individuals is a substantial challenge. Most studies emphasize the suicidal individual. Few studies have emphasized the family caregivers of suicidal individuals., No study has explored the relationship between family caregivers' caring stress with suicidal attitudes and suicide care ability., What this paper adds to existing knowledge? The main results indicated that the older family caregivers tended to have a more negative attitude towards suicidal individuals. Female family caregivers' stress was higher than that of male family caregivers., A mild level of caring stress would help family caregivers have a more positive attitude towards suicidal individuals. Furthermore, a positive attitude would help family caregivers improve their caring ability., What are the implications for practice? Mental health nurses could help family caregivers, especially female family caregivers, reduce their holistic caring burden by looking for support resources and enhancing their coping strategies., Mental health nurses could help family caregivers promote positive attitudes towards suicidal relatives by understanding suicidal individuals' suffering., Abstract Introduction Suicide is a global mental health issue. Family caregivers play a key role in preventing suicide attempts. Aims The aim of this study was to examine the relationship among stress due to the family caregiver's role, suicidal attitude of the family caregiver and suicide care ability among family caregivers. Additionally, instruments of caring stress, attitudes towards suicidal relatives and caring abilities used in the study were tested to measure construct validity. Methods A cross-sectional correlational study was conducted with 164 family caregivers of people who are suicidal. The following three questionnaires were used: the Caring Stress Scale, the Suicidal Attitudes Scale and the Suicidal Caring Ability Scale. Structural equation modelling was performed using SPSS AMOS 19.0 to examine the path relationships among variables. Results Bivariate analyses showed that age was negatively correlated with suicidal attitude. In the final path model, caring stress had a positive effect on suicidal attitudes. Suicidal attitude and suicide care ability were highly positively correlated. Gender had a direct effect on caring stress, which indicated that female family caregivers experienced more stress from their role. Implications for practice: Mental health nurses could help family caregivers become aware of the emotional pain that suicidal people experience and then promote their positive attitudes towards their suicidal relatives. Furthermore, family caregivers could increase their ability to care for their suicidal relatives, which could reduce the numbers of suicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to describe the first 2 years of operation of an electronic system for reporting medication events in psychiatry (Medi-Event system). We have carried out a descriptive analysis of all medication events (errors, near misses and adverse drug reactions) reported between 1 March 2008 and 28 February 2010 at a large, specialist UK psychiatric hospital. A total of 406 medication errors, 40 near misses and no adverse drug reactions were reported in the study period, representing a very large increase in reporting frequency with respect to the previous paper system. The majority (88.8%) of incidents were medication administration errors. The most common error types were failure to sign for a drug and omission of a drug without valid clinical reason. Although most errors were of minor severity, 6.3% were rated as moderate or serious. Distraction was cited as the most common contributory factor, also poor communication and being unfamiliar with the ward. In conclusion, use of the Medi-Event system increased the reporting of medication errors. Analysis of the pattern of errors, as well as of contributory factors and suggestions for error prevention, may help reduce the frequency of medication events and hence improve patient care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to report on the literature related to self-medication programmes that contributed to the development of an Older Persons Mental Health (OPMH) specific pathway for a self-administration of medication (SAM) programme. The traditional methods used within mental health inpatient environments to administer medication are paternalistic and resonant of the medical approach to care. There is a need to investigate innovative methods in the management of depression in older adults that reflect an individualized, innovative approach to redress the power imbalance for patients. Electronic databases were searched using the search strategy of Hek et al. to identify key themes in the implementation of self-administration programmes. Seven themes emerged from the literature review: the structure of SAM, assessments and risks associated with SAM, patient education, SAM and medication adherence, the patients' perspective, advantages and barriers to SAM, and professional issues. These findings were then used as the foundation for a project to develop an OPMH specific pathway for the implementation of SAM. There is a distinct lack of implementation of SAM programmes across the UK, especially within mental health services. Older Persons Mental Health is ready for the implementation of change in medicines management for older adults. Self-administration of medication can ensure all the principles of NHS plan relating to individualized person-centred care are achieved. Nurses have the opportunity to actively contribute to this process, facilitating and empowering those in their care to be experts within their journey and take control of their illness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dealing with persons who have mental health problems is an issue that many people are likely to face with, whether they are health professionals or not. Positive attitudes towards people with mental illness play a major factor in their quality of life and social inclusion. Since adolescents will become active adult members of their communities in the near future, this paper reviews educational interventions in secondary education and how they aim to affect adolescent attitudes towards mental illness. Twelve studies conducted on the relevant issue have been identified. The results indicate a positive impact on attitudes towards mental illness and improvements in the knowledge of mental health and illness among secondary school pupils. However, the limited number of studies highlights the need for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psychosocial intervention (PSI) training results in enhanced knowledge, more positive attitudes, increased confidence and lower levels of clinical burnout for qualified mental health professionals and better outcomes for service users who they work with. This paper describes an evaluation of a PSI training course for qualified and unqualified nurses working in a low-secure unit. Forty-two staff (21 qualified) were randomly allocated to an experimental training group or a waiting list control group. Knowledge, attitudes and burnout were assessed before and after the training. In addition, a random sample of 44 care plans written by the qualified nurses were audited before and after to examine evidence of implementation of PSI in practice. Qualified and unqualified nurses in the experimental group showed significant improvements in knowledge and attitudes compared with the control group. Care plans showed a significant increase in the implementation of PSI. The only significant change in burnout was a reduction in depersonalization for qualified nurses in the experimental group. The PSI training may result in improvements in knowledge, attitude and practice in qualified and unqualified nurses working with severely mentally ill patients in low-secure settings, but in this study the training did not incur protection against burnout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary • The paper describes social comparisons among caregivers of eating disorder patients as a coping strategy. • Different social comparison strategies were assessed in a sample of 96 caregivers as well as their self-esteem, characteristics of personality and perceived quality of life. • The use of unfavourable strategies was correlated to neuroticism and low self-esteem. • Women adopted worse strategies and the fact that having obtained different subgroups regarding the use of those strategies could have prognostic repercussions. The aim of the study was to determine any gender differences in the social comparisons made by caregivers of eating disorder patients and to analyse the relationship between social comparison and personality, age of caregivers, self-esteem, duration of illness, duration of treatment and perceived health and quality of life. We also explored the possibility of classifying caregivers according to these variables. Comparison strategies were analysed in a sample of 96 caregivers of eating disorder patients. The social comparison during illness scale, visual analogue scales of health and quality of life, self-esteem scale of Rosenberg and Eysenck Personality Questionnaire were used. In order to explore possible groupings a cluster analysis was performed. A significant correlation between the use of more unfavourable strategies, neuroticism and low self-esteem was found. Women adopted worse strategies and the cluster analysis revealed two sub-groups with respect to comparisons, personality, self-esteem, self-perceived health status and quality of life. The finding of subgroups associated with worse comparison strategies, higher neuroticism, lower self-esteem and a poorer self-perception of health and quality of life could have repercussions as regards the prognosis of eating disorders and, at all events, should be taken into account during therapeutic work with families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary • This paper describes the role of the psychiatric nurse working in a high secure psychiatric facility in Ireland. • Since this study in 2006, this role has transformed moving from a custodial to a recovery model of care. • The United Kingdom Central Council framework for this study provided a useful method to establish a baseline for this role and as part of strategy to develop nursing practice. The Central Mental Hospital is one of the oldest high secure mental health services in Europe dating back to 1845 but has been one of the last to introduce (forensic) psychiatric nurses. This paper describes the role of psychiatric nurses working in this high secure psychiatric facility in Ireland. The United Kingdom Central Council competency framework was considered to be a prudent starting point for beginning to understand this role in an Irish context. The study received a response rate of 74% and found that the Irish Forensic Mental Health Nurse experiences many of the same challenges as their international colleagues. A high proportion of nursing practice is focused on assessment, communication and creating a therapeutic environment based very much in keeping with the mainstream role in mental health nursing. Skills in specialist assessments and addressing offending behaviour were considered important but deficient at that time. The importance of recovery and human rights were considered paramount but challenged by the need for risk management and security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Hazardous and harmful drinkers make up a significant percentage of A and E attendees, and brief interventions have been shown to reduce harm among this particular group. This paper evaluates a pilot project which introduced a screening and brief intervention programme within the A and E department. This project aimed to screen and offer brief interventions to attendees and to refer on to local alcohol services if required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports on an evaluation of a 'social participation' improvement project in a mental health care and care for the intellectually disabled setting. The main research question is how sociality (i.e. clients' social lives) was constructed and what consequences this had for the project and for the clients. We undertook a dual approach: investigating the predefined outcomes and analysing the improvement processes in terms of how these processes construct sociality. As to the predefined outcomes, clients' social networks were not widened, but clients felt significantly less lonely at the end of the project. In a bottom-up analysis of data gathered on the improvement processes, we articulated two ways of constructing sociality: individualization, in which clients had to verbalize their wishes (verbalization) and to act upon them more actively (enterprising); and normalization, in which a good social life was one embedded in 'normal' community. We argue that this (explorative) way of conceptualizing change corresponds with some of the quantitative findings but also brings to light aspects that would have gone unnoticed by using only the predefined outcomes. Therefore, a mixed methods approach in studying effectiveness is a fruitful addition to the quality improvement literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the development of an integrated Memory Assessment and Support Service guided by best practice principles offered by a National Dementia Strategy (Department of Health). Previous service provision is outlined and comparisons made from both quantitative and qualitative evaluation data to consider the effectiveness of the new service. Conclusions and recommendations are offered to assist others with similar practice development requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study that reviewed literature on the relationship between locking ward doors and rates of escaping among adult psychiatric inpatients. The data used for the review were obtained through electronic searches and it was found that the preferred time frame of the studies before a patient is considered an absconder is 1 to 24 hours. The author says that the incidence of absconding is almost always higher for open wards.

Accessible summary • As people frequently encounter others in mental distress, there is a need for appropriate knowledge and skills to provide support. Mental Health First Aid, a 12-h mental health promotion programme was developed to address this. • There has been little research into basic mental health training programmes generally, in terms of their usefulness. The views of instructors delivering these programmes are also important, as this may provide information about the most effective way of delivering mental health training programmes to a wide audience. • In this study, instructors delivering the Mental Health First Aid programme in Wales were asked to give their views and experiences of delivering the programme. • These instructors said it was important they had the necessary skills and support to enable them to deliver the programme effectively. Mental health literacy among the public is often poor, and although people frequently encounter others experiencing mental distress in their workplace, families and communities, they may be ill-equipped to provide appropriate support. ‘Mental Health First Aid’ (MHFA), a 12-h mental health promotion programme seeks to address this, training people in the knowledge and skills needed to engage with someone experiencing mental health problems. Research relating to the MHFA programme has centred on course attendees, with a paucity of research surrounding the delivery of basic mental health training programmes. Understanding experiences of instructors delivering such programmes is key to the success of future delivery. This study sought to identify the views and experiences of instructors delivering the MHFA programme in Wales. Fourteen MHFA instructors participated in semi-structured audio-recorded interviews, with the transcripts analysed to identify key themes. This paper explores two of the identified themes namely prerequisite skills and support required by instructors. The study highlighted that because of the ensuing emotional labour experienced by instructors, universal mental health training programmes must put in place a clear infrastructure to train, support and monitor those delivering them, for programme roll-out to be effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary • Alcohol services in the UK generally treat clients from an individual medical and psychiatric perspective. Carers, partners, children and other family members are infrequently actively involved in the clients' care process. • A reflective family-based approach was introduced in an attempt to improve treatment engagement with drinkers with relatives. Favourable findings from several self-reporting research and evaluation studies are provided and analysed. • The use of this intervention was found to be effective in facilitating change in drinking and relationships. Family members when involved in the care management proved to be influential in the behaviour change process. • Family group reflecting interventions should be used more extensively and involvement of partners and family members in care programmes should be promoted. Implications for the extended use of the intervention both in addiction settings and wider health and social care practice are discussed. In the UK, an adult with a drinking problem is generally treated from an individual perspective with minimal involvement of carers and relatives. In response to this gap in service provision, a systemic reflecting intervention was introduced to assist couples and families experiencing alcohol-related difficulties. The article documents the background and development of this initiative. Findings from evaluation and clinical outcome studies are reviewed and demonstrate how the use of the approach proved to be effective in facilitating positive change both in drinking and family behaviour. In conclusion, the paper explores the implications of how systemic reflective practice with family groups may be extended and be usefully used in wider addiction, diverse mental and general health-care settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary Individualized metacognitive training is an effective therapy for reducing delusion severity and at the same time increasing metacognitive ability., Correlations emerged between delusion severity and metacognitive ability was needed to be established., Current research findings on cognitive biases and their link to schizophrenia/delusions are explained in a comprehensible and non-stigmatizing manner to patients and illustrated by multiple (everyday life) examples., Abstract The article is a report of a study conducted to explore the influence of individualized metacognitive therapy ( MCT) on delusional severity and metacognitive ability. Delusional beliefs are at the core of schizophrenia. While there is emerging evidence on the usefulness treatment for psychosis of the group training MCT, so far only one study has investigated the effectiveness of individualized metacognitive training. A quasi experimental approach was adopted: The sample consisted of each 26 patients in the intervention group and in the control group. We found that delusion severity as assessed with the Psychosis Rating Scales and metacognitive abilities using the Metacognitive Ability Questionnaire improved significantly in the intervention group. Group differences achieved significance in favour of the MCT for all measures. Correlations that emerged between delusion severity and metacognitive ability were needed to be established. Metacognitive training appears to be effective in decreasing delusion severity and increasing metacognitive ability. We recommend that individualized MCT for a schizophrenic client should become a standard procedure in the treatment of psychosis, which can be administered by a qualified nurse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible summary The purpose of this research was to assess psychological distress among university female students and identify their mental health service needs., Rates of elevated symptoms of depression and anxiety among university women students was 22.5% and 21.2%, respectively, which is similar to women of the same age in the general population. The mean level of depressive symptoms was however lower among the female students., Results showed that little less than one-third of psychologically distressed women students had received professional help, and only 1.4% had received mental health counselling from nurses., Most of the distressed female students experienced mild to moderate levels of depressive and anxiety symptoms, which indicates a need for prevention or early intervention measures., This need is a challenge for nurses working in the primary care sector, including the educational system. They are in a unique position to screen for psychological distress and provide or initiate preventive services or early interventions, including outreach programmes within schools where most young people are reachable., Abstract Psychological distress among university students, especially young women, is of increasing concern. This study focuses on the prevalence of psychological distress among female university students and their need for mental health services. The analysis is based on two cross-sectional surveys, an internet survey among women students attending the University of Iceland in the spring of 2007, and a postal survey of Icelandic female adults conducted in the Fall of 2006. Psychological distress was measured with the Symptom Checklist-90 Depression and Anxiety subscales. The prevalence of above-threshold depression and anxiety among the university women students was 22.5% and 21.2% respectively. Results showed that the mean depression score was significantly lower among the students than among women of the same age in the general population. However, little less than one-third of students with elevated distress levels received any professional help. Only 1.4% of the distressed students received mental help care from nurses. The high proportion of distressed female students not receiving professional help is a challenge to the primary health-care system and the nursing profession. This also raises questions about the adequacy of the current system of health-care delivery and the potential advantages of on-campus health services, in closer proximity to the students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]