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Objective: In severe cases of systemic sclerosis (SSc), autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT) is superior compared to cyclophosphamide. But treatment related morbidity and mortality have to be considered. To date, data on major physical and psychological impacts of aHSCT are scarce. Therefore, subjectively experienced physical and psychological impact of aHSCT and exploration of internal and external factors helping to cope with aHSCT was assessed. Methods: Retrospective assessment of physical and psychological variables in an SSc cohort after aHSCT to describe: Health-related quality of life (HRQL), SSc-associated impairment, coping strategies, body image, and resilience. Additionally, semi-structured interviews were conducted and analyzed via mixed methods qualitative content analysis. Results: Thirty-two patients were included. HRQL correlated with impairment due to SSc and with depressive coping. An unfavorable body image correlated with reduced HRQL and increased impairment but improves after aHSCT. Patients with good resilience had a better HRQL, less depressive coping, and less SSc-associated impairment. The semi-structured interviews revealed that resilience is important for a successful disease management as patients with higher resilience were more satisfied with aHSCT, patients with lower resilience would have wished for more psychological support. Thirty-one patients would recommend aHSCT to other patients. Conclusion: A transient negative impact of aHSCT on mental well-being is present but can be relieved by a team specialized to aHSCT. Psychological support seems to be an unmet need, particularly in patients with low resilience. Patients with higher resilience described a lower negative impact caused by aHSCT and higher satisfaction after therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Laryngeal cancer significantly impacts patients' psychological well-being and quality of life (QoL). This study aims to evaluate the psychological impact and QoL in patients with laryngeal cancer, focusing on differences based on tumor stage and treatment. Methods: This longitudinal study included 75 patients diagnosed with laryngeal cancer. Participants were assessed at diagnosis and 3 months post-treatment using validated tools such as the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the EORTC QLQ-H&N35 questionnaire. This study analyzed the impact of tumor stage, treatment type, and demographic factors on psychological well-being and QoL. Results: Patients with early-stage tumors (Stage I) reported significantly better psychological well-being and QoL compared to those with more advanced tumors (Stages III and IV) both before and after treatment. The non-significant p-values in advanced stages suggest a uniformity of severe distress and poor QoL among these patients. Treatment led to significant reductions in anxiety and depression in early-stage patients, while those with advanced-stage disease showed less improvement. Conclusions: The findings highlight the critical need for early psychological intervention, particularly in advanced-stage laryngeal cancer patients who continue to experience substantial psychological distress and poor QoL despite treatment. Integrating comprehensive psychological support into standard care is essential to improve overall outcomes for these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular disease is estimated to be the leading cause of death worldwide (approximately one-third of all deaths). In 2024, the American Heart Association reported that approximately 128 million Americans over the age of 20 were diagnosed with acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, stroke, and high blood pressure. Also, in 2020, Eurostat reported that the main cause of death was represented by cardiovascular diseases representing almost a third of all deaths. In addition, excessive alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, myocarditis, decreased cardiac contractility, arrhythmias, thrombotic events, hypoxic acute respiratory failure, and stroke. The impact of alcohol on the cardiovascular system is dependent on the amount of alcohol consumed, thus, as alcohol consumption is constant, the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases increases, especially acute myocardial infarction. Cardiovascular emergencies, especially acute myocardial infarction and stroke, can significantly affect both the physical and mental health of patients. However, the psychological impact of these conditions is often neglected, even though studies show that they can lead to symptoms of anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to examine the psychological impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on infertile patients. We adopted a comparison design and searched articles published from 1 September 2016 to 31 December 2019 as the control group, while articles published from 1 January 2020 to 31 April 2023 were treated as the pandemic group. Specifically, Web of Science, PubMed, Medline, PsycArticle, CNKI and PsycINFO were searched to identify potential eligible records. Risk of bias was assessed, and random‐effects meta‐analyses were conducted to estimate the prevalence of specific mental health problems. Forty studies with a total of 19,480 participants were included in the analysis. The pooled prevalence of anxiety in the pandemic group was significantly higher than that in the control group. The depression and stress prevalence in the pandemic group was higher than that in the control group, yet did not reach statistical significance. A subgroup analysis revealed region differences with developed countries exhibiting higher rates of anxiety and depression in the pandemic group, but the result was the opposite in the control group. Physiological factors, psychological factors and social factors correlated with infertile patients' mental health were identified. The COVID‐19 pandemic had a significant negative impact on infertile patients' mental health, emphasizing the importance of ways to mitigate the risks during the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper explores Manto's selected short stories i.e. Toba Tek Singh, The Dog of Tetwal, Ten Rupees, Blouse, Khol Do, Licence, For Freedom, and Smell from thematic perspectives. Manto deftly presents the issues of his time through the sentiments and experiences of his characters. The psychological impact of the partition, people's attitude towards animals after partition whether they belong to which country, how the hunger of stomach compels females to sell their body for survival, adultery, extramarital affairs, morality influencing human relationships, hormonal changes during adolescent period resulting in emotional turmoil, communal riots resulting in bloodshed and loss of families, lust, fear, female victims' conditioning to surrender their body for survival to the lusty inhabitants, atrocities of the British on native Indians, freedom as a desired dream and female body as a sight for respite are some of the major concerns, Manto addresses in these texts. Thus, the writer unfolds the aftermaths of chaos, and unrest to the world while presenting the picture of society he lived in. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Terror attacks have a significant impact on first responders' wellbeing, with an associated risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Aims: To improve understanding of how responding to terror attacks affects paramedics' mental health. Methodology: A literature search was carried out on databases using the PRISMA strategy. Critical appraisal tools were used alongside thematic analysis to appraise and synthesise the literature. Findings: Ten papers were identified. Themes arising regarding risks to responders included: the level of exposure, with the amount related to the risks of developing PTSD and psychopathology; and level of preparedness, with responders carrying out unfamiliar tasks and working outside the scope of practice as well as lacking education on the psychological impact of terror attacks. Conclusion: If paramedics are deployed into terror attack warm zones, policy needs to consider the associated psychological risk. Training should incorporate stress management techniques and education on the extreme emotions these practitioners may experience. More research specifically with the paramedic population is required to understand the risk posed to them and how this may be managed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Material texture significantly influences how people perceive built environments, yet empirical evidence supporting its impact on spaciousness perception is limited. This study aimed to explore how people perceive building materials through sense in the absence of visual attention and how texture meanings affect indoor spaciousness perception. Conducted with 160 participants (90 males, 70 females, mean age ±SD: 22 ± 5 years), the study comprised three phases: baseline tactile assessment, blindfolded navigation in a lab and exposure to realworld environments. Findings revealed the skin's ability to discern textural quality without visual cues, with slightly rough wall surfaces consistently perceived as more spacious. Moreover, the association between wall texture and perceived space varied, with subjective aspects influencing spaciousness in relatively spacious rooms, while objective factors played a larger role in less spacious settings. This study provides insights into sensory referral processes, warranting further investigation into the potential psychological impacts of textures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Despite being the leading cause of acute lower respiratory tract infections in infants, the impact of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) on the caregivers of infected children remains largely unexplored. This study is the first in Japan to examine the psychological, social, and economic burdens on caregivers of infants infected with RSV. Methods: An online questionnaire survey was used to understand the circumstances surrounding RSV infection and the psychological, social, and economic burdens on caregivers. Equal numbers of infants aged either <6 or ≥6 months were enrolled. Results: A total of 606 caregivers were included in the final analysis. Notably, 36.1% of the infants were hospitalized. Most caregivers (91.4%) felt anxious about their infants' RSV infection, and more than half (55.8%) answered that their anxiety interfered with their daily lives. Caregivers whose daily routines were disrupted due to concerns about RSV infection were more likely to hospitalize infants, particularly for extended stays. Infection significantly affected family dynamics, hindering normal daily activities and escalating stress, which in turn led to conflicts and arguments among family members (30.4%). Regarding the financial burden, most caregivers incurred medical expenses (34.2%). Additionally, 76.9% of caregivers expressed interest in the hypothetical RSV vaccination. Conclusions: In Japan, caregivers of infants with RSV experience had significant psychological burden regardless of whether the treatment is outpatient or inpatient. In addition, a non-negligible proportion of caregivers suffer from societal and economic burdens. This study lays the groundwork for all stakeholders to fully comprehend the comprehensive disease burden of child RSV infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stoma-forming surgery can have extensive, negative impacts on a patient's psychological wellbeing. Although this has been known for several decades, little progress has been made in addressing the issue. Several areas of concern have been repeatedly identified in the literature: loss of control; reduced self-esteem; psychosexual issues; and the impact of enhanced recovery on psychological outcomes. While these issues have the potential to significantly affect patients undergoing stoma-forming surgery, they can be mitigated against. While identifying and addressing psychological morbidity at an early stage is the most effective approach, additional interventions can also be useful. The promotion of self-care and independence can minimise the feeling of loss of control, the selection of discreet, leak-proof products can help address self-esteem issues, and open, honest conversation can significantly improve a patient's feelings regarding sexuality and intimacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As soon as pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PA) is diagnosed, whether at the localised, locally advanced or metastatic stage, it is important to provide supportive care combined with the best possible antitumoral treatment. The psychological impact, in the form of anxiety-depressive disorders (ADD), affects more than one the third patients. It also affects carers, who are directly affected by their loved one's illness. Psychological symptoms often appear at an early stage in the history of the disease, and in some cases may even be the first symptom or even reveal it. TADs arise from the natural history of PA and its complications, such as pain, jaundice, anorexia and cachexia. However, biological factors may also be involved in triggering anxiety-depressive symptoms, with inflammation playing a major role. Finally, psychosocial as well as medical factors may have an influence on ADD, such as the empathy of the doctor, as perceived by the patient at the time of diagnosis, and of the healthcare team as a whole during follow-up. In this context, early diagnosis and appropriate management of the psychological impact on patients and their carers is a major challenge for their quality of life, as well as optimising adherence to anti-tumour treatments. Increased collaboration between clinicians, clinical psychologists and researchers, with the development of dedicated studies, seems an essential condition for achieving this. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Intolerance of uncertainty (IU) is widely accepted as a transdiagnostic vulnerability factor for a range of mental health problems. It is considered a transsituational vulnerability factor associated with a range of responses to different stressful life situations. The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis is to examine the association between IU and specific psychological responses to the COVID‐19 pandemic and the moderators of this relationship drawn from IU research and other studies on COVID‐19. Method: The studies included were as follows: (i) English‐language articles published in peer‐reviewed journals or thesis/dissertations; (ii) reporting specific psychological impacts of COVID‐19; (c) reporting IU; (iii) case‐control studies, prospective cohort studies, experimental studies and cross‐sectional studies of large populations and (iv) reporting correlation coefficients between the variables of interest. Studies on participants with a diagnosis of neurological and/or organic impairment were excluded. The databases searched were Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and ProQuest, up until 31 December 2022. The risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias Utilized for Surveys Tool (ROBUST, Nudelman et al., 2020). Sensitivity analysis was conducted using the one‐study remove method, and studentized residuals and Cook's distance were examined. A random effects model was used. Results: We examined the association between IU and COVID‐19‐related psychological impacts across 85 studies from 22 countries (N = 69,997; 64.95% female; mean sample age, 32.90 ± 9.70). There was no evidence of publication bias. We found a medium and positive association between IU and COVID‐19‐related psychological impacts (N = 69,562, r = 0.35, k = 89, 95% CI [0.32, 0.37]), which was independent of the IU measure used or whether the psychological impact was measured in relation to the virus alone or broader aspects of the pandemic. It was also independent of severity, publication year, sample type and size, study quality, age and sample levels of anxiety, depressive symptoms, stress, mental well‐being and social support. However, the observed association varied significantly between countries and country income levels (stronger among low‐incomes) and across genders (stronger among males) and was stronger for measures with greater reliability and more items, but lower among samples with more people who had been exposed to COVID‐19. Conclusions: The findings support that IU is a higher order transsituational vulnerability factor related to cognitive, behavioural and distress responses during the pandemic. Limitations include English‐language‐only sources, reliance on a wide range of measures that were coded using a novel system and variable risk of bias across studies. The implications are considered in relation to the management of psychological consequences of major situational stressors experienced at a global scale, but the variations at a national and socioeconomic level also have implications for different or localized stressors at a regional or community level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid urbanization and development have led to a significant number of Malaysians living in flood-prone areas, exacerbating the impact of natural disasters such as floods. This study aims to identify the factors influencing community resilience both before and after flood events in Temerloh, Pahang. Data were collected via questionnaires distributed to 350 flood victims. Key findings reveal that long-term residents exhibit higher resilience due to local knowledge and preparedness strategies. The study highlights the importance of integrating local experiences into flood management policies to enhance community resilience. The results reveal that large flood-prone areas experience frequent flooding, contributing to considerable community distress. This distress is somewhat alleviated by the support provided by government agencies and NGOs, which includes relief efforts, emergency services, and flood defense construction. Additionally, community involvement in flood management was found to have a statistically significant impact (p < 0.05). The study highlights the need for enhanced flood management strategies that address psychological aspects to reduce negative impacts on the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stress has been linked to worsening symptoms and increased disease activity in patients with Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Life-events are individual stress points, and there is conflicting evidence regarding their role in SLE activity and disease perception. Methods: Adult SLE patients were recruited for the study. Clinical and laboratory features of SLE were recorded, and previous diagnosis of anxiety or depression were retrieved from patients' electronic charts. Flares were defined by the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity (SLEDAI) flare Index, and flares during the previous year were documented. During a routine visit, they completed validated Portuguese translations of the 10-item Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and Life Experience Survey (LES) for the previous year. Results: A total of 47 female SLE patients were recruited. Ten patients (21.3%) had experienced recent flares. Patients with recent flares reported fewer life events, with lower positive, negative, and total weightings sums compared to those without recent flares. Although 42.2% of patients perceived pathological levels of stress in the previous month, 48.9% had anxiety symptoms, and 34% were at high risk for an anxiety disorder, these psychometric measures did not differ significantly between the recent flare and no-flare groups. Conclusions: There is a high prevalence of pathological levels of stress among SLE patients. SLE patients with recent flares report less psychological impact from life events, both positive and negative, independent of other psychological or pharmacological factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cross-sectional online survey was undertaken (July–August 2020) to ascertain parents' experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic of being at home with their newborn baby in the first 6 weeks. Participants (n = 371) were mostly biological mothers (n = 369, 99.4%), white British (n = 351, 94,5%), first baby (n = 186, 50%). A statistically significant positive correlation was found between maternal confidence and number of children (rho (369) = 0.295, p <.001) and baby's age at time of participation (rho (369) = 0.139, p =.009). Participants without higher educational qualifications (median = 62, SIQR = 3.5) had statistically significant higher confidence (U = 11831.500, p <.001) than participants with higher educational qualifications (median = 58, SIQR = 2). Parents of babies without health issues at birth (median, 61, SIQR = 3.5) had statistically significant higher confidence (U = 13213.500, p <.001) than parents of babies with health issues at birth (median = 58, SIQR = 5). Three qualitative themes have emerged: the impact of "no partner" restrictions; mixed emotions and lack of information and support. In conclusion, parenting during a pandemic created anxiety and fear, affected by "no partner" restrictions, not being allowed to appointments, scans, and during labor. Some parents were more confident and indicated benefits including heightening bonding with baby and partner during social distancing. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: The strain of the pandemic on the mental health and well-being of parents could have a negative impact on future parenting. Healthcare professionals should not underestimate the potential consequences of declining perinatal mental health and should be vigilant to screen, enquire, and refer. Further research on this cohort of parents and children exploring the long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their ongoing health and wellbeing could be beneficial for future health-care policies and guidance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The environment's psychological impacts on humans have been long studied, but many questions remain unanswered. We conducted a micro-scale study to examine the relationships among the objective characteristics of urban environmental settings, people's subjective perception of such settings, and the related psychological responses. We employed a geo-enabled survey tool to gather data on individuals' perceptions of the immediate environment within their daily activity space. The psychological processes assessed included emotional and affective states such as perceived stress and happiness. The data points were mapped on a high-resolution aerial image, which was classified to derive quantitative properties to examine the dose-response relationship between environmental exposure and psychological responses. Our results showed negative correlations between the momentary stress level and the amount of environmental elements such as water, trees, and grass. Positive correlations were detected between stress level and the amount of parking lot and barren land, as well as the distance to buildings. In terms of perceived happiness, positive environmental factors included water, trees, and artificial surfaces, with all other elements having negative correlations. Most of the correlations examined were not strong correlations. This could be due to the significant differences in how individuals respond to environmental stimuli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infections by multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) pose significant public health challenges, including increased mortality rates, healthcare costs, and significant impacts on the quality of life for patients. Utilizing a systematic review methodology adhering to PRISMA guidelines, we performed a comprehensive search across three databases, identifying 20 relevant studies that investigated the psychological effects of infections due to MDROs on hospitalized adults. The primary outcomes examined included depression, anxiety, and other psychosocial impacts, while secondary outcomes included patient and caregiver understanding of the infection. Findings revealed consistent associations between contact isolation due to MDRO infections and heightened levels of depression and anxiety among patients, although evidence regarding the impact on anger was mixed. Other psychological aspects, such as feelings of stigmatization and reduced healthcare provider interactions, were also recorded. The current systematic review highlights the importance of addressing these psychological effects through holistic, patient-centered care approaches, emphasizing the need for better communication and comprehensive education for both patients and healthcare providers. Our findings suggest that mitigating the psychological burden of MDROs can enhance overall patient care and outcomes and call for further research to optimize care strategies for patients hospitalized for infections due to MDROs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Different clinical manifestations were revealed by the distinct waves of the coronavirus. The pandemic had a multifaceted impact on mental health, sleep patterns, and associated fear. MATERIALS AND METHODS: It was an observational online survey using by using Google Forms in the city of Chandigarh between April 2020 and April 2021 across three waves of the coronavirus outbreak (first wave from March 2020 to May 2020, second wave from June 2020 to January 2021, and third wave from February 2021 to April 2021). Fear of coronavirus disease (COVID), preventive behaviors, insomnia-related problems, and impact of the event were assessed by using standardized scales. Results: The participants who were infected during the first phase exhibited significantly higher levels of distress, loss of control over their reactions, increased fear of coronavirus and sleep problems, and also greater adherence to preventive behaviors compared to those who were infected during the second and third waves. A tendency to emerge post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was seen in 68 (58.1%) of the participants (Peritraumatic Distress Inventory (PDI) score >14) and 34 (29.1%) of all the participants (PDI score >23). Overall, 66 (56.4%) participants reported having insomnia. About 24 people (20.5%) had clinical concerns about PTSD, 20 people (17.1%) had probable PTSD diagnoses, and 16 people (13.7%) experienced a severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic impact on their lives. Conclusion: The first wave of COVID-19 had a greater psychological impact than subsequent waves. Further research must fill important gaps in our knowledge of the clinical range and long-term effects.

Rapid urbanization and development have led to a significant number of Malaysians living in flood-prone areas, exacerbating the impact of natural disasters such as floods. This study aims to identify the factors influencing community resilience both before and after flood events in Temerloh, Pahang. Data were collected via questionnaires distributed to 350 flood victims. Key findings reveal that long-term residents exhibit higher resilience due to local knowledge and preparedness strategies. The study highlights the importance of integrating local experiences into flood management policies to enhance community resilience. The results reveal that large flood-prone areas experience frequent flooding, contributing to considerable community distress. This distress is somewhat alleviated by the support provided by government agencies and NGOs, which includes relief efforts, emergency services, and flood defense construction. Additionally, community involvement in flood management was found to have a statistically significant impact (p < 0.05). The study highlights the need for enhanced flood management strategies that address psychological aspects to reduce negative impacts on the community.

Background and Objective: Alzheimer's disease is a progressive and irreversible disorder that not only affects patients but also has severe repercussions on the daily lives, social relationships, and mental health of caregivers. This qualitative study aimed to delve deeper into the daily challenges faced by caregivers, the coping mechanisms they employ, and the positive outcomes they may experience, focusing on caregivers in Richmond Hill, Ontario. Materials and Methods: A qualitative research approach was adopted, utilizing semi-structured interviews to collect data until theoretical saturation was achieved. A total of 26 participants were selected using purposive sampling method from Alzheimer Clinics of the Richmond Hill area, ensuring a representation of varied experiences. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis method and NVivo software was utilized to assist in the organization and analysis of the data. Results: Four main themes were identified: daily challenges, coping mechanisms, health impacts, and positive outcomes. Caregivers reported significant daily challenges, including time management difficulties, financial burdens, behavioral problems of the patients, and lack of social support. Coping strategies varied widely, encompassing both active and passive approaches, with some caregivers displaying significant psychological resilience and resourcefulness. Positive outcomes, such as personal growth and improved family relationships, were noted, despite the substantial burdens. Conclusion: Caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients endure considerable psychological and physical burdens. Nonetheless, the presence of effective coping strategies and social support significantly affected their ability to manage these challenges. Future interventions should focus on enhancing caregiver support systems and providing targeted education and resources to alleviate caregiver strain.

Junaid Amin,1 Ammar Ahmed Siddiqui,2 Muhammad Ilyas,3 Salman Amin,4 Mishal M Aldaihan,5 Hamayun Zafar5 1Department of Physical Therapy, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Ha’il, Ha’il, 2440, Saudi Arabia; 2Preventive Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry, University of Ha’il, Ha’il, 2440, Saudi Arabia; 3Department of Management & MIS, College of Business Administration, University of Hail, Ha’il, 2440, Saudi Arabia; 4Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University College of Medicine and Dentistry,The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan; 5Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11433, Saudi ArabiaCorrespondence: Junaid Amin, Department of Physical Therapy, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Ha’il, 2440, Ha’il, Saudi Arabia, Tel +966-580931017, Email Junaid768@hotmail.comBackground: Prior research has revealed substantial psychological impacts of COVID-19 among the general population. However, there is a noticeable gap in studies addressing the enduring anxiety levels before and during lockdown periods of the COVID-19 pandemic.Objective: The study assessed and compared the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic before and during lockdown periods among the general population in Saudi Arabia.Methods: A validated and reliable General Anxiety Disorder (GAD)-7 instrument was used to quantify stress levels by measuring anxiety. Nonprobability snowball sampling was used to collect data from 516 participants residing in Saudi Arabia. The difference in scores for each of the seven related questions of GAD-7 was determined using a non-parametric Wilcoxon rank test.Results: A mild level of anxiety was consistently observed both before and during the lockdown, as indicated by GAD-7 scores of 6.17 (SD = 5.5) before the lockdown and 6.42 (SD = 5.7) during the lockdown. There were no differences in GAD-7 scores before 6.17 (SD = 5.5) and during 6.42 (SD = 5.7) the lockdown periods. However, levels of moderate anxiety increased by 5% during the lockdown period. Anxiety levels before and during lockdown were significantly associated with gender (χ 2 (3, n = 516) =11.23 p = 0.01) and employment status (χ 2 (3, n = 516) = 9.41 p = 0.024). Among the GAD-7 questionnaire items, item number 1 (“Feeling nervous, anxious, or on edge”) (p= 0.00) and item number 7 (“Feeling afraid as if something awful might happen”) (p= 0.025) showed a significant association with anxiety levels before and during the lockdown periods.Conclusion: The enduring prevalence of mild anxiety, persisting both before and during the lockdown periods, underscores the profound impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of the general population in Saudi Arabia.Plain Language Summary: This study aimed to understand how the COVID-19 pandemic affected the mental well-being of people in Saudi Arabia, specifically looking at anxiety levels before and during lockdown. We used a survey with 516 participants and found that, overall, people reported mild anxiety both before and during the lockdown. However, there was a 5% increase in moderate anxiety during the lockdown.Interestingly, we discovered that gender and employment status were linked to anxiety levels. Women and those with certain employment statuses reported different anxiety levels. Specific questions in the survey, such as feeling nervous or afraid, were mainly associated with anxiety during both periods.In conclusion, even though anxiety levels were generally mild, some groups and specific concerns showed differences. This information can help us understand how to better support people’s mental health during challenging times like a pandemic.Keywords: anxiety, COVID-19, GAD-7, general population, psychological impact, Saudi Arabia

Background: The rising incidence of COVID-19 cases is undeniably having a profound impact on the physiological and psychological welfare of individuals. The incident had the potential to significantly affect an individual’s quality of life, social interactions, and occupational performance. The study explored the experiences of individuals who recovered from COVID-19 and the impact of their illness on their psychological and overall well-being. Methods: A qualitative, phenomenological study was conducted in Oman among 15 patients aged 20 to 60 years, who had been hospitalized at Royal Hospital with moderate to severe symptoms and signs of COVID-19. An in-depth interview was used to collect data. Thematic analysis was carried out to analyze the data using the Braun and Clarke model framework for the analysis. Results: Three themes emerged from the study: (1) The impact of COVID-19 on the survivors; (2) factors that improved patients’ recovery; (3) lessons learned from COVID-19 pandemic. A recent study found important intrinsic and extrinsic factors that helped COVID-19 patients recover quickly. Conclusions: COVID-19 impacted the individuals’ physiological and psychological health. The findings can inform Oman’s psychological support services and raise awareness of the virus’s psychological impact on mental health. The study may help to design a tailored psychological intervention to improve the mental well-being of COVID-19 survivors for better experience and quality of life.

Abstract Background Palliative care and the integration of health and social care have gradually become the key direction of development to address the aging of the population and the growing burden of multimorbidity at the end of life in the elderly. Aims To explore the benefits/effectiveness of the availability and stability of palliative care for family members of terminally ill patients in an integrated institution for health and social care. Methods This prospective observational study was conducted at an integrated institution for health and social care. 230 patients with terminal illness who received palliative care and their family members were included. Questionnaires and scales were administered to the family members of patients during the palliative care process, including quality-of-life (SF-8), family burden (FBSD, CBI), anxiety (HAMA), and distress (DT). We used paired t-tests and correlation analyses to analyze the data pertaining to our research questions. Results In the integrated institution for health and social care, palliative care can effectively improve quality of life, reduce the family’s burden and relieve psychological impact for family members of terminally ill patients. Palliative care was an independent influencing factor on the quality of life, family burden, and psychosocial status. Independently of patient-related and family-related factors, the results are stable and widely applicable. Conclusion The findings underline the availability and stability of palliative care and the popularization of an integrated service model of health and social care for elder adults.

This research is motivated by the phenomenon of underage conductor workers aged 12-15 years. Early adolescents still require the development of various aspects in preparation for entering adulthood. Early adolescents are not ready to enter the world of work. This study aims to analyze the psychological impact of early adolescent conductor workers physically, cognitively, emotionally, and socially in the Oebufu sub-district, Oebobo sub-district, and Kupang city. The research method used is descriptive-qualitative. The research subjects were 10 young conductors aged 12-15 years. Data collection techniques include non-participatory observation and semi-structured interviews. The data obtained was then analyzed through three stages: data reduction, data display, and conclusion. The results showed that working in early adolescence had a negative impact on the subjects' development in mental, physical, cognitive, and social aspects. Subjects are prone to experiencing conflict at work because they are emotionally unstable and do not have the skills to socialize with customers of various ages. Subjects are also prone to verbal and non-verbal aggressive treatment from older co-workers (drivers). Subjects are often depressed because the wages received are erratic. Subjects do not eat regularly and do not have time to exercise because they have to work from morning to night, even though they are in a growth period that can be maximized through exercise and consuming nutritious food on time. Busy work also causes subjects to drop out of school, so they lose the opportunity to practice their cognitive potential through education according to the stages of their intellectual change. Socially, subjects are easily influenced by the bad habits of smoking and consuming alcohol due to association with more mature co-drivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The rising incidence of COVID-19 cases is undeniably having a profound impact on the physiological and psychological welfare of individuals. The incident had the potential to significantly affect an individual's quality of life, social interactions, and occupational performance. The study explored the experiences of individuals who recovered from COVID-19 and the impact of their illness on their psychological and overall well-being. Methods: A qualitative, phenomenological study was conducted in Oman among 15 patients aged 20 to 60 years, who had been hospitalized at Royal Hospital with moderate to severe symptoms and signs of COVID-19. An in-depth interview was used to collect data. Thematic analysis was carried out to analyze the data using the Braun and Clarke model framework for the analysis. Results: Three themes emerged from the study: (1) The impact of COVID-19 on the survivors; (2) factors that improved patients' recovery; (3) lessons learned from COVID-19 pandemic. A recent study found important intrinsic and extrinsic factors that helped COVID-19 patients recover quickly. Conclusions: COVID-19 impacted the individuals' physiological and psychological health. The findings can inform Oman's psychological support services and raise awareness of the virus's psychological impact on mental health. The study may help to design a tailored psychological intervention to improve the mental well-being of COVID-19 survivors for better experience and quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this scoping review was to synthesise the literature to identify what the psychological impacts of family court processes were on mothers who had experienced DFV. Twenty-five articles met inclusion criteria with four themes capturing the findings: Perpetrators using the system as a mode of coercive control; Secondary victimisation as a result of interacting with the system; Required to relive their abuse; and, Long-term psychological consequences of having engaged with the system. Key findings were that perpetrators manipulated the system to perpetrate further abuse and continue/reassert their control. Secondary re-victimisation was common, with poor knowledge of DFV and limited understanding of coercive control tactics and how these were employed by perpetrators by legal professionals identified as contributing factors. This review suggests that mothers who engage with the family court system experience a range of short- and long-term psychological impacts and court processes facilitate ongoing abuse by the perpetrator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of youth sport specialization has evolved over the past decade, from a focus on the risk of overuse injury to a broader awareness of its effects on mental health, social well-being, quality of life, growth and maturation, sport performance, and long-term athletic success. This review article considers a recently revised definition of youth sport specialization, as well as guidelines and consensus statements from various sports medicine organizations, with practical applications for young athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The diagnosis of infertility affects between 8–12% of couples of childbearing age worldwide. It is difficult to manage infertility, which often generates anxiety and depression. Material and methods: We conducted a study that included women of childbearing age who were unsuccessful in getting pregnant. Our research was based on a questionnaire distributed online via social media and it was carried out over a period of two months. The questionnaire comprised 35 questions and intended to highlight the psychological impact of infertility diagnosis on the female participants in the present study. Results: A total of 486 women with a diagnosis of infertility responded to the online questionnaire. Subjects had an average age between 31 and 40 years (58.4%) and most of them (80.2%) came from urban areas. It was found that 38.1% of patients experienced a very high level of stress generated by their infertility diagnosis and 54.7% stated that their greatest fear was that they would never get pregnant; 41.4% of these patients claimed that their quality of life was affected and 31.7% indicated a negative impact even on their couple life. Of all participants to the questionnaire, 96.6% stated that the costs of treatments or even assisted reproduction procedures were an additional stress and 73.7% believed that religion played an important moral role. Conclusions: The women who were enrolled in the current study recognized the negative impact of their infertility diagnosis on both themselves and their couple's lives. At the same time, they believed in Divine help and looked optimistically to the future in terms of achieving pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate the impact of haemophilia A without inhibitors on humanistic outcomes in patients and caregivers. Herein, we report a cross‐sectional analysis of the baseline data of persons with haemophilia (PWH) participating in the prospective study HEMOLIFE. Methods: These data are part of a prospective, observational, and multicentre study currently being conducted in 20 hospitals in Spain by haematologists. We included subjects 12 years or older diagnosed with haemophilia. The evaluations included the Maladjustment Scale, Haemophilia–Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire for Adults (HaemoQol)/HaemoQol Short Form (Children), haemophilia‐specific version of the Work Productivity and Impairment Questionnaire plus the Classroom Impairment Questionnaire (WPAI+CIQ:HS), Haemophilia Activity List (HAL)/Paediatric Haemophilia Activities List (pedHAL), visual analogue scale (VAS) for evaluating pain, Coping Pain Questionnaire–Reduced (CAD‐R), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Results: A total of 81 PWH were recruited at 18 centres; 66 PWH were ≥18 years (i.e., adults), and PWH 15 were <18 years (i.e., paediatric patients). Out of the 79 evaluable subjects, 16 (20%) showed an impact of haemophilia on daily life, and the areas most affected were "leisure time" (58% showed maladjustment) and "work/studies" (47% showed maladjustment). Patients reported a higher impact of haemophilia on quality of life (mean [SD] of the transformed score) in the dimensions of "sport" (49.4 [28.6]), "physical health" (40.5 [25.8]) and "future" (37.7 [28.9]). In adults, according to HAL scores, greater impairment of function was observed in "lying/sitting/kneeling/standing," "function of legs" and "leisure activities and sports," with mean normalized scores of 64.7, 65.1 and 69.0, respectively. Productivity was mostly impacted by presenteeism. The pain was infrequent and moderate. According to the HADS scores, nine (11.5%) patients had clinical anxiety and depression. Conclusion: PWH without inhibitors exhibited impairments in adjustment, quality of life and functionality, especially related to leisure and sports activities, and exhibit relevant levels of anxiety and depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Palliative care and the integration of health and social care have gradually become the key direction of development to address the aging of the population and the growing burden of multimorbidity at the end of life in the elderly. Aims: To explore the benefits/effectiveness of the availability and stability of palliative care for family members of terminally ill patients in an integrated institution for health and social care. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at an integrated institution for health and social care. 230 patients with terminal illness who received palliative care and their family members were included. Questionnaires and scales were administered to the family members of patients during the palliative care process, including quality-of-life (SF-8), family burden (FBSD, CBI), anxiety (HAMA), and distress (DT). We used paired t-tests and correlation analyses to analyze the data pertaining to our research questions. Results: In the integrated institution for health and social care, palliative care can effectively improve quality of life, reduce the family's burden and relieve psychological impact for family members of terminally ill patients. Palliative care was an independent influencing factor on the quality of life, family burden, and psychosocial status. Independently of patient-related and family-related factors, the results are stable and widely applicable. Conclusion: The findings underline the availability and stability of palliative care and the popularization of an integrated service model of health and social care for elder adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the psychological impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the police and armed forces. Methods: Participants (N = 242) completed an online survey that assessed posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), burnout, emotional suppression, and labor and sociodemographic variables. Mean difference, correlation, and stepwise linear regression tests were performed. Results: One-third of participants showed severe PTSS, linked to patrolling duties, very frequent contact with other people, fear of contagion, perceived pandemic severity, living with at-risk people, taking a COVID-19 test, working more than normal, suffering an assault, having little vacation, and having to distance from loved ones. PTSS also correlated with the burnout dimensions and emotional suppression. Three-quarters had not received any support from their workplace. Conclusions: Effective interventions to optimize these professionals' personal, social, and working conditions are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key digested message Sextortion is currently the highest reported form of image-based sexual abuse, a form of online blackmail which has been growing in prevalence since 2021. Research highlights sextortion to have severe psychological consequences, with over a dozen cases of suicide among victims. This paper used two transcripts from the media of victims' experiences, as well as qualitative survey responses from an additional 99 victims, to explore in detail how sextortion affects victims psychologically. A main theme was low self-esteem leading to depression, within which feelings of hopelessness and negative thinking of oneself were prominent. Another main theme was paranoia causing anxiety, which was characterised by a loss of trust and feeling of not being able to escape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the COVID-19 pandemic, drastic measures to interrupt SARS-CoV-2 infection chains were implemented. In our study we investigated the consequences of pandemic related restrictions on the social, psychological, and physical well-being of institutionalized adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Methods: Online survey among professional caregivers in 71 residential groups, caring for 848 residents. Findings: (i.) A lack of participation concerning infection protection measures of the residents, their relatives, and their caregivers; (ii.) A 20% increase in doctor contacts during the pandemic; (iii.) A considerable deterioration in at least one item of the subdomains mood (49%), everyday skills (51%), social interaction (29%), exercise and coordination skills (12%), behavior (11%) and cognition and communication (7%); (iv.) A deterioration of the overall condition in 41%; Summery: Intensive attempts should be made to find individual and less categorical contra-infectious measures without questioning the basic everyday needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid advancement of digital technologies has significantly transformed the business landscape, affecting both organizational operations and employee experiences. As companies worldwide strive to leverage digital technologies to remain competitive, they undergo multifaceted changes, including the creation of strategic infrastructure, supportive leadership, redesigning business processes, and enhancing technological capabilities. However, the psychological impact on employees is often overlooked. While offering benefits like increased productivity and flexibility, digitalization also introduces challenges such as blurred boundaries between work and private life, increased stress, reduced motivation, and increased anxiety regarding technological adoption and job security. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the psychological implications of digital transformation, presenting statistical patterns through bibliometric analysis to offer a holistic perspective. In the bibliometric analysis carried out on 765 articles in the Web of Science (WoS) database between 2014 and 2023, the most influential authors in the field, the most cited articles, the most influential journals, institutions, and countries, as well as collaboration networks were examined to determine the intellectual structure in the field. According to the analysis results, intense interest has been shown in research on the effects of digitalization on the psychology of employees, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. This study is a pioneering study for researchers in examining the effects of digitalization on the psychology of employees and will help them gain ideas about what kind of research can be done in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectiveIn severe cases of systemic sclerosis (SSc), autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT) is superior compared to cyclophosphamide. But treatment related morbidity and mortality have to be considered. To date, data on major physical and psychological impacts of aHSCT are scarce. Therefore, subjectively experienced physical and psychological impact of aHSCT and exploration of internal and external factors helping to cope with aHSCT was assessed.MethodsRetrospective assessment of physical and psychological variables in an SSc cohort after aHSCT to describe: Health-related quality of life (HRQL), SSc-associated impairment, coping strategies, body image, and resilience. Additionally, semi-structured interviews were conducted and analyzed via mixed methods qualitative content analysis.ResultsThirty-two patients were included. HRQL correlated with impairment due to SSc and with depressive coping. An unfavorable body image correlated with reduced HRQL and increased impairment but improves after aHSCT. Patients with good resilience had a better HRQL, less depressive coping, and less SSc-associated impairment. The semi-structured interviews revealed that resilience is important for a successful disease management as patients with higher resilience were more satisfied with aHSCT, patients with lower resilience would have wished for more psychological support. Thirty-one patients would recommend aHSCT to other patients.ConclusionA transient negative impact of aHSCT on mental well-being is present but can be relieved by a team specialized to aHSCT. Psychological support seems to be an unmet need, particularly in patients with low resilience. Patients with higher resilience described a lower negative impact caused by aHSCT and higher satisfaction after therapy.

Material texture significantly influences how people perceive built environments, yet empirical evidence supporting its impact on spaciousness perception is limited. This study aimed to explore how people perceive building materials through sense in the absence of visual attention and how texture meanings affect indoor spaciousness perception. Conducted with 160 participants (90 males, 70 females, mean age ±SD: 22 ± 5 years), the study comprised three phases: baseline tactile assessment, blindfolded navigation in a lab and exposure to real-world environments. Findings revealed the skin’s ability to discern textural quality without visual cues, with slightly rough wall surfaces consistently perceived as more spacious. Moreover, the association between wall texture and perceived space varied, with subjective aspects influencing spaciousness in relatively spacious rooms, while objective factors played a larger role in less spacious settings. This study provides insights into sensory referral processes, warranting further investigation into the potential psychological impacts of textures.

Objective: This study aimed to assess the burden and psychosocial impact of spinal cord injury on the immediate caregivers at a tertiary health facility in Benin City, Edo State. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted among 73 family caregivers in the neurological ward of a tertiary health facility using a structured questionnaire as instrument of data collection. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression. Results: Findings revealed that an overall mean of 2.73 indicates that the burden on the caregivers was moderate with a moderate psychological impact (m = 2.88) and a high sociological impact (m = 3.12). Factors affecting the caregiving provided by immediate caregivers include social and household responsibilities (94.5%), financial situation (89.0%), family support (83.6%), and health status of the caregiver (80.8%). Age (odds ratio [OR] = 5.67, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.23–27.17, P = 0.027), education (OR = 3.75, 95% CI: 1.05–13.39, P = 0.041), and “others” (spouses, siblings, friends, or extended family members) (OR = 3.167, 95% CI: 1.583–6.337, P = 0.001) were predictors for high psychological impact while education (OR = 0.074; 95% CI: 0.015–0.370, P = 0.001) and caregiving role (OR = 3.167; 95% CI: 0. 1.583–6.337, P = 0.001) high sociological impact. Conclusion: Majority of the caregivers experience moderate burden, moderate psychological impact, and high sociological impact. Understanding these factors is essential for developing targeted interventions and support services to address the unique needs of caregivers and mitigate the burden of caregiving on their psychosocial health.

Objectives: As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to be an issue worldwide, the foregoing phenomena are especially problematic for those in community health and rural clinics with limited funding available; such providers markedly reported that the pandemic negatively impacted their quality of life (QOL). Hence, the aim of this study was to determine the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on primary health-care providers at a primary care clinic. In addition, the research gathered information about respondents’ characteristics vis-à-vis the work-related psychological impact among providers. Subjects and Methods: A self-administered questionnaire was mailed to 62 primary health-care providers at a Primary Care Clinic in North Texas, with a 69% response rate (n = 43). In addition to descriptive statistics, multiple logistic regression was conducted to determine characteristics related to the presence of work-related psychological impact among providers. Results: Results revealed that the main psychological manifestations perceived by providers were work-related stress (77%), depression (51%), and anxiety (40%). In addition, the results showed that those subspecialists and chiropractors were less likely to report that the pandemic negatively impacted their QOL because they have previous exposure to similar traumatic events. Conclusion: The pandemic has led to relatively higher levels of psychological impact among primary health-care providers and chiropractic professionals at the clinic. The findings suggested that it is necessary to offer providers the necessary support to reduce the psychological impact derived from the pandemic. Future studies should include providers from diverse geographic locations in their sample for a better understanding of this phenomenon.

Abstract Background Despite pregnant women's vulnerability to respiratory illnesses and pregnancy complications during the COVID-19 pandemic, research on its psychological impact in the study area, is limited. Objective This study aims to fill this gap by examining the prevalence and factors linked to the psychological impact among pregnant women in the Fafan zone, Somali region of Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional study conducted from April 1st to April 30th, 2021, randomly selected health facilities for inclusion. The Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) assessed psychological impact, and data were analyzed using SPSS V 22. Variables with a p-value ≤ 0.25 in bivariate analysis were considered for multivariate analysis via multiple logistic regressions with the backward elimination method. Results The study involved 294 pregnant women, constituting 73% of the respondents. The prevalence of psychological impact attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic was 27.2%. Factors such as being in the first trimester of pregnancy (AOR: 5.32), travel history to infected areas (AOR: 3.71), obtaining COVID-19 information from television (AOR: 4.81), and using social media for 1 to 2 hours daily for updates (AOR: 1.35) were significantly associated with this impact. Conclusion While the psychological impact among pregnant women in this study was relatively lower compared to other research, factors such as gestational age, TV media exposure, travel history, and social media usage for COVID-19 updates were strongly linked to this impact, highlighting the necessity for psychological support services for pregnant women during challenging times.

Introduction: Tattooing has a rich historical presence in various human civilizations, with the earliest physical evidence dating back to around 3258 BC. While acceptance of tattoos is increasing in the Western world, negative associations remain. Short-pulsed lasers, such as Q-Switched (QS) or picosecond lasers, are the gold standard for tattoo removal. Case Presentation: This case report discusses the successful removal of 17 amateur tattoos, which were self-administered by a 19-year-old female patient using black eyeliner ink and sewing needles. The tattoos, distributed across her body, including the face and hands, were partially or completely removed over 10 sessions using the QS Neodymium-doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet 1,064-nm laser. Conclusion: The factors that influence the efficacy of tattoo removal are highlighted, including tattoo type, location, and coexisting fibrosis. The psychological and social importance of effective tattoo removal is emphasized, particularly for young people seeking to disassociate from past experiences or affiliations.