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Background: At least half of children and adults with Down syndrome have a major mental health concern during their life but few studies ask people with Down syndrome directly about their experience. We used a co-research model to explore anxiety, stress, and coping in adults with Down syndrome., Methods: Our group of researchers and adults with Down syndrome conducted an online survey on mental health for adults with Down syndrome. We analysed quantitative data and thematically grouped coping mechanisms., Results: Sixty adults with Down syndrome completed the survey, mean age was 30 years, and 55% of respondents had some employment. Approximately 80% of respondents reported experiencing stress and 75% reported experiencing anxiety. Employed respondents were more likely to use social coping mechanisms., Conclusion: Soliciting responses from adults with Down syndrome about their mental health can provide valuable insights. Mental health is a concern for people with Down syndrome that should be addressed., (© 2024 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background : Past research has shown farmer anxiety and stress have significantly affected many farmers and their families due not only to the impact on feelings of happiness and success, but also on output efficiency, accident rates, and health. The past approach to ameliorating anxiety has been through utilizing coping mechanisms such as sharing with significant others, venting, planning, self-blame, and positive thinking. A problem has also been farmers' reluctance to voice difficulties and seek help. Method : An alternative, more basic approach to anxiety amelioration is possible. This involves isolating the human characteristics that lead to anxiety, and subsequently modifying these to reduce anxiety and its associated impacts. Accordingly, the extensive literature on anxiety and stress was reviewed to facilitate developing an hypothesis outlining the important components explaining farmer anxiety. To assess the parameters of farmer anxiety, a random survey of New Zealand farmers was used to obtain their ratings on their anxiety. Regression models were used to quantify the relationships. Results : Specific farmer personal characteristics were shown to be highly related to anxiety. These included a farmer's personality, objective set, belief in their ability to control outcomes, as well as education and age. Conclusion : This analysis provides the information required to direct counseling efforts to modify the anxiety creating personal variables and, consequently, reduce anxiety and its impact on a longer term basis.

Background: Sexual minorities are more likely than heterosexuals to engage in unhealthy eating behaviors., Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine sexual minority stressors and internalizing symptoms as predictors of unhealthy eating behaviors among sexual minority youths., Methods: We used longitudinal data from 1461 sexual minority youths in the Growing Up Today Study, across ages 14-28 years. We hypothesized that sexual minority stressors would predict unhealthy eating behaviors, in part due to internalizing symptoms. Linear regression models fit via generalized estimating equations were stratified by gender and sexual orientation., Results: Significant positive and inverse associations between stressors and eating behaviors were detected among females and males, with more significant associations among females. Associations were attenuated by up to 71 % for females and 12 % for males when internalizing symptoms were added to the models., Conclusions: Sexual minority stressors predicted unhealthy eating behaviors overall and more so for some sexual orientation and gender groups; associations were partially explained by internalizing symptoms. The conceptual model appears to best describe the experiences of bisexual females. Findings have clinical implications for adolescent health.

Simple Summary: Communication by health professionals impacts the mental health of cancer patients. This research sought to further explore this matter by studying the possible relationships between communication and a patient's depression, anxiety, quality of life, coping strategies, and perception of their state of health. A total of 177 patients diagnosed with cancer answered a battery of questionnaires on these aspects. Our findings show that oncologists are better at delivering a cancer diagnosis than other healthcare professionals and that communication by them can impact patients' mental and health variables. We believe that there is a need to implement better communication strategies among all healthcare professionals to facilitate the task of breaking bad news to patients. This will have a positive impact on patients' emotional states and health while reducing stress and burnout among the healthcare professionals themselves. The field of healthcare is increasingly adopting a humanistic perspective in the physician–patient relationship. One of the more salient aspects being studied is the communication between the two. This study serves a dual purpose. Our initial aim was to study how a cancer diagnosis is disclosed to patients by different physicians (GPs/other specialists/oncologists). Secondly, we set out to study how the way in which oncologists normally communicate with their patients impacts variables such as a patient's anxiety, depression, coping mechanisms, and perception of both their health and their quality of life. A total of 177 patients answered a battery of questionnaires on sociodemographic and disease data: the SPIKES protocol, the EORTCQLQ-COMU26, and the ADAF screening questionnaire. The analyses recorded medium or high scores for some of the steps in the SPIKES protocol when delivering the diagnosis, and significant differences were observed for some of them among different physicians. The level of a cancer patient's satisfaction with the communication by oncologists was related to their levels of anxiety, depression, vulnerability, and perception of their health and quality of life. Better communication strategies are called for among all healthcare professionals to facilitate the task of breaking bad news to their patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This qualitative study aimed to delve into the nuanced experiences, challenges, coping mechanisms, and the acceptance journey of parents raising children diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Employing a qualitative methodology, the research involved conducting indepth interviews with parents referred by the Maharlika Charity Foundation. The findings illuminated diverse levels of comprehension regarding cerebral palsy among the participants, with acceptance of the condition seen to evolve gradually over time. Financial constraints emerged as a significant hurdle for parents, compounded by societal stigma and misconceptions surrounding the condition. Despite these obstacles, parents demonstrated remarkable resilience, actively engaging in caregiving and seeking support from their social networks. Family support played a pivotal role in ameliorating both the emotional and financial burdens associated with raising a child with cerebral palsy, emphasizing the importance of a robust support system. The journey towards acceptance of the child's condition emerged as a critical milestone in the parental experience, fostering a sense of adaptation and strength. Through their narratives, parents showcased a spectrum of coping strategies, ranging from practical caregiving approaches to seeking solace in religious faith. The study underscores the necessity of tailored support systems to assist families in navigating the multifaceted challenges inherent in raising a child with cerebral palsy. Ultimately, it sheds light on the resilience and resourcefulness of parents in facing the complexities of caring for a child with special needs within their familial and societal contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study's objective is to evaluate the emotional experiences, coping mechanisms, and support resources for Canadian vascular surgeons and trainees following an adverse patient event or near miss. Methods: This is a cross-sectional survey study of all Canadian Society for Vascular Surgery (CSVS) members from October to November 2021. We collected data on participant experiences with adverse events, their emotional responses, the coping mechanisms used, and their perceptions on available support resources. Results: The survey was sent to 233 CSVS members yielding 66 responses. The majority (77%) of respondents had experiences with adverse event causing serious patient harm. The most common negative experience following an adverse event included feelings of negativity towards oneself, general distress, and anxiety about potential for future errors. The most common coping mechanism was seeking advice from a mentor or close colleague. Peers (82%) and senior colleagues (59%) were the most preferred sources of support. Most of the respondents would reach out to a mentor if they had 1, but 30% reported no mentor or close colleague for support. Conclusion: Adverse patient events and near misses have serious negative impact on the lives of Canadian vascular surgeons and trainees. Peers and senior colleagues are the most desired source for support, but this is not universally available. Organized efforts are needed to bring awareness in our vascular surgery community on the ubiquitous nature and detrimental effects of adverse events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Dental anxiety is widespread among both children and adults. To diagnose dental anxiety, standardized anxiety questionnaires are recommended. Based on the suggestive nature of the questionnaires, the study aimed to find out whether asking respondents about personal coping strategies before dental treatment influences their anxiety. Methods: This prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled clinical trial included a total of 158 patients of a university dental clinic on emergency service. The intervention group (n = 82) received the Coping with Anxiety Questionnaire (CAQ) and the control group (n = 76) the Hierarchical Anxiety Questionnaire (HAF). State anxiety scores were assessed by using the State– Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) before and after the completion of each questionnaire. Results: Anxiety decreased in the intervention group (CAQ) (p  < 0.001) and increased in the control group (HAF) (p  < 0.001). Conclusion: Within the limitations of the current study, a diagnostic tool of a standardized questionnaire for the assessment to assess personal coping strategies decreased state anxiety in comparison to a questionnaire assessing anxiety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study was to determine the level of stress, anxiety, and depression among Slovenian parents of children with autism spectrum disorder and their coping mechanisms. The study included 42 parents of children with ASD who were enrolled at a specialised clinic for children with hearing and speech difficulties. We used the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS), the Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (COPE) inventory, and a demographic questionnaire which included questions on satisfaction with life and social support received. The respondents reported no clinically elevated levels of stress, depression or anxiety. However, the mothers reported more stress and anxiety related symptoms then did the fathers. The results showed that coping strategies of positive reinterpretation and growth were positively correlated to higher perceived social support and greater satisfaction with life, and were negatively correlated with depression and anxiety. Perceived social support was highly negatively correlated with anxiety. Strategies of acceptance were used significantly more often by individuals with a higher level of education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The elderly represent one of the categories that was most affected by the pandemic period. The purpose of this research was to analyze the ways in which mass media and very often contradictory information flows influenced the lives and personal communications of the Romanian elderly population during the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to conduct the research, we used a mixed-methods approach. For the quantitative research, we gave a questionnaire to the elderly population of Romania, and for the qualitative research, we conducted interviews. Our quantitative sample included 881 retired persons with an age between 55 and 94 years old; the mean age was 71.48 years old with 6.6 years standard deviation. The elderly described the pandemic period using negative words: fear, loneliness, anxiety, disaster; the channel they mostly watched and trusted was the TV; they were aware of the measures they had to take to protect themselves; they missed most of the meetings with the family and the main problems they had were represented by loneliness, the inability to be with their families or the lack of access to medical services. The elderly's mass media consumption during the pandemic was mostly represented by TV consumption; the information spread by mass media was sometimes contradictory; it influenced their behavior and may have generated feelings of anxiety among them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The COVID-19 pandemic and the sociopolitical climate in the United States have imposed additional stress and anxiety for graduate students. We explored the stress level in graduate occupational therapy students, the role of exercise in reducing stress, and common coping mechanisms applied to manage academic and sociopolitical stress. Methods: A survey was created and distributed to graduate occupational therapy students in the U.S. Results: Most participants reported moderate to high levels of academic-related stress (n = 73, 97.33%), and more than half reported moderate levels of anger and frustration because of academic-related stress (n = 43, 57.33%). Half of the participants reported that they engage in physical exercise as a coping mechanism for academic stress (n = 38, 50.67%), and most participants thought that kickboxing would help reduce stress (n = 48, 64.00%) and reduce anger and frustration (n = 56, 74.67%). Conclusion: the well-being of graduate students over the past two years has increased after the COVID-19 pandemic and the sociopolitical tension in the U.S. Future research is needed to determine how this stress may affect graduation and employment outcomes and recommendations for burnout and suicide prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mental health specialists but especially teachers and parents should get directly involved in identifying several dysfunctional mental manifestations in adolescents/schoolchildren that can lead to certain maladaptative behaviors. Therefore, it is a priority to train them to become aware of, recognize and monitor certain manifestations that are specific to dysfunctional behaviors, aiming to maintain both the mental health balance of each and every adolescent and of the entire group. Teachers may recommend or call for the school's therapist to offer proper mental health services to adolescents, so that, whenever necessary, they could benefit from specialized support through mental health assessment techniques, mental health first aid, support and counselling techniques. Through the present paper we set out to call the teachers and parents' attention to a series of concrete data regarding the anxiety-specific manifestations in adolescents, which can help them in the process of monitoring, supporting and improving mental health balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On 24 February 2022, the Russian Federation invaded Ukraine, starting a military conflict that soon turned into a full-scale war. The Romanians have been actively involved in helping their neighbors, causing the accumulation of emotional and mental pressure upon the Romanian population exposed to such a close military conflict. This cross-sectional study assessed, through an online survey (1586 adult Romanian residents), the primary coping mechanisms, quality of life and anxiety levels in response to the psychological trauma associated with the Russo—Ukrainian war. Based on the results, focusing on and venting emotions along with behavioral disengagement were the coping strategies that had the strongest negative impact on anxiety and well-being. On the other hand, positive reinterpretation and growth were associated with less anxiety, a higher degree of overall health and better quality of life. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first of its kind to be performed among the Romanian population so far. Thus, we equip mental health practitioners with the tools (real-life evidence data) that will allow them to establish a more meaningful doctor—patient relationship, maximizing therapy results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of a slaughterhouse worker (SHW) involves the authorized killing of living beings, yet there is limited understanding of the consequences this behavior has on their well-being. The purpose of this systematic review is to collate and evaluate the current literature on the psychological impact of slaughterhouse employment. Fourteen studies met the specific a priori inclusion criteria. The findings from this review were demarcated by the focus of studies: (1) the prevalence of mental health disorders, (2) the types of coping mechanisms used, and (3) the link between slaughterhouse employment and crime perpetration. It was found that SHWs have a higher prevalence rate of mental health issues, in particular depression and anxiety, in addition to violence-supportive attitudes. Furthermore, the workers employ a variety of both adaptive and maladaptive strategies to cope with the workplace environment and associated stressors. Finally, there is some evidence that slaughterhouse work is associated with increased crime levels. The research reviewed has shown a link between slaughterhouse work and antisocial behavior generally and sexual offending specifically. There was no support for such an association with violent crimes, however. Based on existing research, we suggest future directions for research (i.e., applying more methodological rigor) but highlight key findings for practitioners and policymakers that warrant attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was conducted in Turkey to determine the experiences and coping mechanisms of breast cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research was conducted using qualitative descriptive phenomenology. Data were collected from ten patients via in-depth interviews through semi-structured questionnaires. Content analysis, incorporating a combination of deductive and inductive approaches, was conducted to determine the themes and subthemes. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, simultaneously with the analysis and collected data. The study data were categorized into 3 contexts, 7 themes and 39 subthemes. The first context titled "Problems accompanying the disease" includes the effects of the pandemic, the fear of being infected with COVID-19 and hospital-related themes. The second context titled "Coping strategies" comprises the themes of coping behaviors and healthy lifestyle behaviors. The last context is titled "Anxiety about being infected, and suggestions for the future". In the study, problems experienced by patients with breast cancer throughout the COVID-19 pandemic were investigated from a broad perspective. Patients treated in chemotherapy units constitute the vulnerable group affected by the pandemic most. Therefore, it is important to investigate the experiences of oncology patients, particularly of patients with breast cancer and their coping strategies, and to take necessary precautions accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Health-care workers (HCWs) are facing stigma during the COVID-19 pandemic. Stigma is associated with poor mental health. Aims: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and psychological impact of COVID-19-related stigma and different coping mechanisms among physicians in Mumbai. Settings and Design: An online cross-sectional survey was conducted. Subjects and Methods: One hundred and seventy physicians from Mumbai were administered questionnaires on perceived stress, anxiety, COVID-19-related stigma, and coping strategies. Statistical Analysis Used: Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation tests, and binary logistic regression in the SPSS, version 20.0. Results: The prevalence of stress and anxiety was 57.6% and 20.0%, respectively. 34.7% of physicians felt stigmatized due to COVID-19. Stress was significantly associated with COVID-19-related stigma (P = 0.009), and emotion-oriented coping (P = 0.000), as was anxiety (P = 0.000, P = 0.000, respectively). Conclusions: COVID-19-related stigma is a major issue among physicians. Stigma and emotion-oriented coping mechanisms are predictive of mental distress in this population.

Artificial eye clinics address physical and aesthetic aspects of orbital prostheses, but psychological effects may not be formally addressed. In general, without effective coping mechanisms, stress can lead to anxiety and depression. This study aims to determine, in the context of having an artificial eye, whether coping strategies, as well as perception of illness and other demographic and clinical variables are associated with anxiety or depression. Consecutive patients attending two artificial eye clinics were invited to participate in this audit. Participants completed questionnaires: HADS, Brief IPQ and Brief COPE. Variables with a correlation coefficient of ≥0.2 with anxiety or depression were included in regression modeling. The extent to which the participants' emotional and cognitive representations of their artificial eye related to feelings of anxiety and depression was determined. In the cohort of 208, clinically significant anxiety was present in 29.5% and clinically significant depression was present in 8.4%. Perceptions of the impact of the artificial eye and self-blame as a coping strategy were correlated with anxiety. Depression levels were higher when participants believed that their artificial eye had a greater impact on their life, when they lived alone, and when they used substances as a coping strategy. Significant levels of anxiety exist in those living with artificial eyes, with various coping strategies used. Addressing this and offering alternative coping strategies may improve patient well being and overall satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of teacher stress, anxiety, and depression (SAD) has been confirmed and investigated in various contexts. This research aimed to study the (dys)functional coping strategies (CSs) of teachers and their experienced SAD levels. Of the 549 invited language teachers, 398 (75%) teachers with various occupational attributes participated in this study by completing the (Dys)functional Coping Strategies Scales (DCSS) and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales (DASS). The results indicated high teacher SAD rates (M = 31%). Regarding teacher professional characteristics, preservice teachers were more susceptible to suffer from stress, while expert teachers were at risk of experiencing anxiety and depression. Among the recognized functional CSs, talking with friends, parents, etc. and self-monitoring to control feelings appear to be the two important protective cognitive-behavioral (C-B) mechanisms to deal with teacher SAD. Using negative self-talk and self-blame and smoking cigarettes (excessively) were the concerning coping mechanisms of teachers with SAD. It is suggested that effective and continuous interventions should be developed and incorporated into teacher education programs to equip teachers with required CSs and to promote functional C-B conducts and strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The influence of the COVID‐19 vaccine and the evolution of the pandemic over time on nurses' mental health have not been thoroughly examined. This study aimed to explore the changes in nurses' mental health from the early pandemic to the early vaccination period over a 1‐year time span and examine vaccination and coping mechanisms as predictors of nurses' poor mental health and burnout. Methods: Three cross‐sectional surveys were conducted: Early‐pandemic (n = 320), pre‐vaccination (n = 228), and early‐vaccination cohorts (n = 292). Findings: About 72% of nurses in the early‐vaccination cohort were fully vaccinated with two doses of mRNA COVID‐19 vaccines. There were significant decreases in moderate/severe anxiety and moderate/severe depression for the early‐vaccination cohort compared to the other cohorts. In multivariate analyses, vaccination had almost three‐fold higher odds of moderate/severe anxiety (Odds Ratio [OR] = 2.87; 95% Confidence Interval [CI] = 1.28–6.44). High resilience, family functioning, and spirituality were associated with two‐ to five‐fold lower odds of poor mental health and burnout. Conclusions: Although nurses in the early‐vaccination cohort had lower anxiety and depression than earlier cohorts, COVID‐19 vaccination had minimal associations with nurses' mental health. Coping mechanisms and organizational support appear to be important predictors of nurses' poor mental health and burnout. Clinical relevance: The evidence gathered over 1 year of the pandemic may be helpful for a better understanding of the challenges facing frontline nurses and preparing for future healthcare crises. As a part of the preparedness plan for the future, evidence‐based interventions that raise frontline nurses' resilience, as well as family and spiritual support, should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Health-care workers (HCWs) are facing stigma during the COVID-19 pandemic. Stigma is associated with poor mental health. Aims: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and psychological impact of COVID‑19‑related stigma and different coping mechanisms among physicians in Mumbai. Settings and Design: An online cross-sectional survey was conducted. Subjects and Methods: One hundred and seventy physicians from Mumbai were administered questionnaires on perceived stress, anxiety, COVID-19-related stigma, and coping strategies. Statistical Analysis Used: Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation tests, and binary logistic regression in the SPSS, version 20.0. Results: The prevalence of stress and anxiety was 57.6% and 20.0%, respectively. 34.7% of physicians felt stigmatized due to COVID‑19. Stress was significantly associated with COVID‑19‑related stigma (P = 0.009), and emotion-oriented coping (P = 0.000), as was anxiety (P = 0.000, P = 0.000, respectively). Conclusions: COVID-19-related stigma is a major issue among physicians. Stigma and emotion-oriented coping mechanisms are predictive of mental distress in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Esophagogastroduodenoskopi procedure is an invasive procedure that can cause problems in patients who will undergo it. To overcome anxiety, a coping mechanism is needed. Purpose: This study aims to find out the relationship between coping mechanisms and anxiety levels of Pre Esophagogastroduodenoskopi (EGD) patients in the Endoscopy Unit of Hospital I Hospital I Dr. Saiful Anwar Malang. Method: The study used a correlation analytic design with a cross sectional approach. The number of samples obtained by 34 respondents with the sampling technique used is total sampling. Statistical analysis using the Spearman Rho test with SPSS version 26. Results: The results of this study showed there is a meaningful relationship between coping mechanisms and pre esophagogastroduodenoskopi (EGD) patient anxiety levels in the Endoscopy Unit of IRNA I RSUD Dr. Saiful Anwar Malang (p =0.001) at signification values of 0.05 and r =- 0.554, indicating that the direction of negative correlation with the strength of strong relationships, so that it can be concluded the more adaptive the coping mechanism then the lower the anxiety level. Conclusion: The use of proper coping mechanisms in pre esophagogastroduodenos copy patients can lower anxiety levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several professionals, including teachers, have been engrossed in fear of the worst happening due to COVID-19 and the rapidly evolving nature of the virus affecting the perception of safety in any working environment. This study examined teachers' perception of classroom safety, anxiety, and coping strategies during instructional delivery in senior high schools in Ghana. Adopting the cross-sectional survey design with a quantitative approach, a convenient sample of 174 senior high school teachers in the Cape Coast Metropolis completed a questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis, analysis of variance, and multiple linear regression. The findings showed that teachers perceived their classroom environment as unsafe during instructional delivery amidst COVID-19 and reported modest to extreme levels of anxiety. Further, teachers with a high level of COVID-19 anxiety were found to utilize active coping strategies to manage stressful situations. The reported unsafe working environment in schools during pandemic times highlights the critical role of supportive working environments for teachers' mental and psychological wellness. School counseling psychologists, school welfare officers, and school health coordinators should collaborate to implement interventions (e.g., social emotional learning; resilience strategies) that promote the wellbeing of teachers and a safe working environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Aims To examine the impact of various factors affecting nurses' mental health during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Design An online cross‐sectional study. Methods Registered nurses who graduated from a nursing school in Southern California, USA, participated in the study from 20 April–10 May 2020 (N = 320). Kendall's tau correlations and multivariate logistic regression procedures were performed with stress, anxiety and depression as outcome variables. Results Most nurses reported moderate/high stress (80.1%), while 43% and 26% reported moderate/severe anxiety and depression, respectively. COVID‐19 patient care was positively associated with moderate/severe high stress (OR = 2.25; p = .012) and moderate/severe anxiety (OR = 3.04; p

The psychological condition of diabetic patients affects blood glucose. Assessment of anxiety levels and coping mechanismsis important where diabetic patients are prone to psychosocial problems that affect glycemic control. Objectives: To analyze anxiety levels and coping mechanismsin diabetic mellitus patients during the COVID 19 pandemic. Methods: Descriptive methods of analytics with a cross sectional approach. Sampling with non probability sampling through purposive sampling in 66 diabetic patients at Idaman Banjarbaru Hospital. Results:The result of the analysis with p-value = 0.538 > 0.05, concluded Ho accepted. So there is no relationship between anxiety and coping mechanisms in diabetic mellitus patients during the COVID 19 pandemic. Discussion: Coping is considered a factor of a person’s equilibrium in the adjustment of anxiety conditions. Coping manages the problems faced, with adaptive coping then a person succeeds in solving the problem that makes the level of anxiety decrease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The outbreak of COVID-19 and the resulting lockdown had a great psychological impact on the lives of people in general and on the lives ofstudents in particular. The current study aims to find the level of anxiety and the types of coping mechanisms utilized by university students during the lockdown period. Furthermore, the relationship between these two variables is also addressed. The participants of this study consist of 260 university students. Hopkins Symptoms Checklist and the Coping Strategies Inventory are the instruments that were used as measurement tools. The results showed that university students have probable anxiety, and their most commonly used coping mechanism is social withdrawal. The study also found a statistically significant correlation between social withdrawal, problem avoidance, and expression of emotion with anxiety. According to the findings, there exists a significant difference in anxiety between male and female students. In addition, a significant difference in the use of coping mechanisms among female and male students existed in the use of social withdrawal and expression emotion coping mechanisms, which were both used more by female students. The findings of this study highlight the need for psychological services to be available in the universities of the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emergency services personnel experience high levels of stress daily (Minnie et al., 2015). An individual’s ability to cope with stressful situations is determined by the individual’s perception of stress and coping mechanisms employed. The aim of this study was to investigate coping strategies employed by Irish firefighters and association with perceived stress and anxiety levels. Additionally, one further aim was to determine attitude towards CISM supports such as post-event Psychological Debriefing/ Defusing. A mixed method survey design (N-72) employing both CISS and DASS21 measures were completed by participants from a full time urban based station providing Emergency Medical Services, and five stations on ‘retained’ status. Participants were recruited through convenience sampling. Results suggested a moderate positive correlation between stress and avoidance and a weak positive correlation between stress and social diversion, avoidance distraction and emotion orientated coping. Respondents further indicated reliance on talking, colleague support, and recreational activity for stress management.

We all know we will die, but not when and how. Can private death awareness become public, and what happens when it does? This mixed-method research on the Covid-19 crisis reveals how pandemic politics cultivates and uses mass existential anxiety. Analyzing global discourse across vast corpora, we reveal an exceptional rise in global 'mortality salience' (awareness of death), and trace the socio-political dynamics feeding it. Comparing governmental pandemic policies worldwide, we introduce a novel model discerning 'mortality mitigation' (coping mechanisms) on a scale from steadfast resistance ('oak') to flexible resilience ('reed'). We find that political trust, high median age, and social anxiety predict a reedy approach; and that the oak, typically pushing for stricter measures, better mitigates mortality. Stringency itself, however, hardly affects Covid-related cases/deaths. We enrich our model with brief illustrations from five countries: China and Israel (both oaks), Sweden and Germany (reeds) and the USA (an oak–reed hybrid). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Referring to Leventhal's common‐sense model, this observational cross‐sectional study aimed at investigating the relationship between illness mental representations, coping mechanisms and psychological distress in a sample of women with gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD). Methods: Thirty‐eight women diagnosed with GTD (18 with hydatidiform mole; 20 with gestational trophoblastic neoplasia) were asked to complete the Illness Perception Questionnaire—Revised, the Coping Orientation to the Problems Experienced, the State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory—Form Y and the Beck Depression Inventory—Short Form. Demographic and clinical information was collected through a self‐report questionnaire. Results: The sample did not report significant symptomatic distress in relation to GTD. Correlation analysis showed that the Emotional representations subscale of the Illness Perception Questionnaire—Revised was significantly associated with both state anxiety and depression; avoidant coping significantly and positively correlated with anxiety and depression, as well as with illness emotional representations. Mediation analysis revealed significant indirect effects of avoidant coping on both anxiety and depression through the mediation of emotional representations. Conclusion: Avoidant coping could lead women to develop emotional representations of illness characterised by negative affects, which in turn enhance distress levels. Results underline the importance to promote adaptive coping strategies, along with accurate illness perceptions, to foster better psychological adjustment to GTD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Corona Virus Disease 19 (COVID-19) is a new pandemic, declared a public health emergency by the World Health Organization, which could have negative consequences for pregnant and postpartum women. The scarce evidence published to date suggests that perinatal mental health has deteriorated since the COVID-19 outbreak. However, the few studies published so far have some limitations, such as a cross-sectional design and the omission of important factors for the understanding of perinatal mental health, including governmental restriction measures and healthcare practices implemented at the maternity hospitals. Within the Riseup-PPD COST Action, a study is underway to assess the impact of COVID-19 in perinatal mental health. The primary objectives are to (1) evaluate changes in perinatal mental health outcomes; and (2) determine the risk and protective factors for perinatal mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, we will compare the results between the countries participating in the study.Methods: This is an international prospective cohort study, with a baseline and three follow-up assessments over a six-month period. It is being carried out in 11 European countries (Albania, Bulgaria, Cyprus, France, Greece, Israel, Malta, Portugal, Spain, Turkey, and the United Kingdom), Argentina, Brazil and Chile. The sample consists of adult pregnant and postpartum women (with infants up to 6 months of age). The assessment includes measures on COVID-19 epidemiology and public health measures (Oxford COVID-19 Government Response Tracker dataset), Coronavirus Perinatal Experiences (COPE questionnaires), psychological distress (BSI-18), depression (EPDS), anxiety (GAD-7) and post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSD checklist for DSM-V).Discussion: This study will provide important information for understanding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on perinatal mental health and well-being, including the identification of potential risk and protective factors by implementing predictive models using machine learning techniques. The findings will help policymakers develop suitable guidelines and prevention strategies for perinatal mental health and contribute to designing tailored mental health interventions.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04595123 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emergency services personnel experience high levels of stress daily (Minnie et al., 2015), with an individual's ability to cope with such stressful situations determined by their perception of stress, as well as the coping mechanisms they employ. The aim of this study was to investigate coping strategies employed by Irish firefighters and the association with perceived stress and anxiety levels. A further aim was to determine attitude towards CISM supports such as post-event Psychological Debriefing/ Defusing. A mixed method survey design (N-72) employing both the Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations (CISS) and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS21) were completed by participants from a full time urban based station providing Emergency Medical Services, and five stations on 'retained' status. Participants were recruited through convenience sampling. Results suggested a moderate positive correlation between Stress and Avoidance and a weak positive correlation between Stress and Social diversion, Avoidance distraction, and Emotion orientated coping strategies. Qualitative analysis indicated that respondents relied on talking, colleague support, and recreational activity for stress management. The study concludes that stress management supports are necessary for workers in highly stressful environments, considering the reliance on less healthy forms of coping strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many people still feel that there is a stigma attached to mental health problems and therefore will not discuss them with work colleagues. Some colleagues may feel uncomfortable as they did not know how to act around you, use this as an opportunity to educate them. It is important to recognise triggers that may cause stress and anxiety and trying different types of coping mechanisms to help alleviate the symptoms. Having supportive work colleagues can make a big difference on how you feel, find someone that you can talk to and do not feel ashamed that you suffer with mental health issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

'Non-offending pedophiles' or 'minor attracted persons' are individuals who suppress an attraction to children. Previous analyses of this population's mental illness employed overt self-report methods, limited by social desirability. Additionally, studies assessing the coping mechanisms employed to remain offense-free are underpowered; understanding of these would facilitate the rehabilitation of prior offenders. A thematic analysis of coping mechanisms and mental illness was conducted on 5,210 posts on the 'Virtuous Pedophiles' forum. Four themes emerged for coping mechanisms: Managing risk and attraction to children, Managing mood, Managing preferences prosocially and Friends, family and relationships, with 13 subthemes. Five themes emerged for mental ill-health, including: Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Self-hatred/Self-harm/Suicide and Other. Self-hatred/Self-harm/Suicide accounted for almost a third of discussed mental ill-health. These results highlight the severity of mental ill-health amongst this population and the coping mechanisms employed to remain offense-free. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current study was to determine if a life skills-based intervention programme could improve the emotional health, self-esteem and coping skills of Malaysian institutionalised adolescents. This study was a randomized controlled trial with pre-, post- and four-month follow-up tests comprising intervention and control groups which were randomly selected to receive the intervention programme (life skills education) or the placebo education programme (COMBI programme). Overall, 271 adolescents, who experienced a mild to extra severe score in one of the objectives of the DASS21 questionnaire were selected to participate in the study. The findings of this study can be the starting point of continuous, systematic life skills education for Malaysian children and adolescents, and can be used by researchers and educational planners across the country. Trial registration: TCTR20161010003. Registered on: 6-October- 2016. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to examine the efficiency of the mechanisms utilized by police officers to cope with police and exam stress, with anxiety and stress levels as efficiency criteria. Planful problem solving, distancing, self-controlling and confrontive coping proved to be the common adaptive strategies in coping with police stress, while seeking social support, escape-avoidance, positive reappraisal and accepting responsibility proved to be maladaptive. As a consequence, anxiety and stress levels were found to be significantly higher among participants who used maladaptive mechanisms. With regard to exam stress, adaptive mechanisms were: planful problem solving, confrontive coping, positive reappraisal and accepting responsibility, while maladaptive mechanisms included: distancing, seeking social support, escape-avoidance coping and self-controlling. As with police stress, anxiety level was significantly higher among participants who used maladaptive mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Humor has been shown to decrease the use of pain medicine, improve mood, and decrease stress. However, the timing and setting for using humor can be perceived differently depending on the patient and the context. Our objective was to better understand how patients with recurrent ovarian cancer experience humor to gain insight into the feasibility of using humor as a therapeutic adjunct.We conducted structured patient interviews with women being treated for recurrent ovarian cancer. The phenomenological method of Colaizzi was used to gain an in-depth understanding of how women with recurrent ovarian cancer use and view humor in relation to their diagnosis.Most patients used humor to cope with cancer and felt that humor alleviated their anxiety. The use of humor by physicians and nurses was perceived as appropriate and positive. A previous relationship with a physician was often felt necessary before the use of humor. Humor was often perceived not only in traditional jokes but was also found in humorous anecdotes from the caregiver’s life outside of medicine.This study revealed that humor is an often used coping mechanism for women with recurrent ovarian cancer and subjectively helps alleviate anxiety. The use of humor by physicians was found to be universally perceived as appropriate and positive. The waiting area seems to be a place where humorous experiences would be welcomed. These findings provide additional insight into the role that humor plays in the lives of patients with recurrent ovarian cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]