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Wellness has recently emerged as an industry sector and a multidimensional academic discipline that includes psychological, physiological, social, demographic and ecological dimensions. Wellness enhances resilience and is therefore a survival imperative that is fundamental to life, yet current Western definitions of wellness do not refer to fundamental a priori principles. Eastern medicine on the other hand does refer to universal principles and suggests that bliss is a natural homeostatic set-point and that wellness can be achieved by living according to the Tao. Congruence between Eastern concepts and thermodynamics further suggests that Qi is related to information and flow, and that wellness arises from maximal flow and minimum entropy production. These principles, which can be represented by an Illness-Wellness Vortex, suggest that the healthiest lifestyle provides maximal enjoyment with minimal waste. Thus, conscious consumption and cultivation of psychological flow can provide the means for achieving wellness through aligning internal and external states. (Contains 3 figures.)

Newcomer women and children are less likely to access and utilize mental health support services as compared to the general Canadian population, despite reporting experiences of mental health issues. This review aimed to map out the social support interventions that are available for promoting the mental well-being of newcomer women and children living in Canada. A search using Medline, Cumulative Index for Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane library was conducted to identify published studies. Studies were screened, extracted, and synthesized by two independent reviewers in line with the methodological approach for scoping reviews. Fourteen articles published in English between 2012–2023 were reviewed. Results identified five types of interventions: art and sand play interventions, support groups and workshops, assessment of existing support services, social media interventions, and short-term cognitive behavioral therapy. Our results suggest that culturally appropriate social support interventions increase mental well-being outcomes, such as self-esteem and social support, and reduce peri-migratory traumas for newcomer women and children in Canada. However, findings from this review underscore the need for more quantitative and participatory research approaches so that newcomer women’s and children’s needs are adequately explored and addressed.

There is evidence that the quality of life and mental health of pregnant women change during pregnancy. To evaluate the impact of physical activity on the quality of life and mental health of pregnant women with obesity or overweight, a systematic review was performed using six electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane (CENTRAL), ScienceDirect, Scielo, BVS and PEDro). In total, 205 articles were collected, and after screening in accordance with the PRISMA declaration, six randomized clinical trials were selected. Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane RoB2 tool and a narrative synthesis of the results was performed. Physical activity interventions did not demonstrate statistically significant results on the quality of life and mental health of pregnant women with obesity or overweight. The effects of physical activity during pregnancy for women with obesity or overweight are varied due to the diversity of interventions implemented. Nonetheless, a discernible positive association emerges between stringent adherence to the prescribed physical activity regimen and enhanced physical well-being, weight management, and heightened aerobic capacity. In order to ascertain more definitive conclusions, rigorous clinical trials are needed that take into account the heterogeneity of interventions and ensure adequate adherence to the protocol.

Background and Objectives: Early maladaptive schemas are known as cognitive or behavioral patterns that categorize information and organize relationships between them. This research aimed to investigate the relationship between early maladaptive schemas and mental health in students at Hamadan University of Medical Sciences. Materials and Methods: This study was a descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study, with a statistical population consisting of students from the faculties of medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy at Hamadan University of Medical Sciences and Health Services in the academic year 2021-2022, totaling 968 individuals. The required sample size for the regression method was determined to be 178 individuals using the Green formula. The sampling method was performed using relative stratified random sampling due to the homogeneity of the study community units. Results: The results of the Spearman correlation test showed a significant negative relationship (P=0.01) between early maladaptive schemas and mental health in students. Specifically, there was a negative and significant relationship between early maladaptive schemas and various aspects of mental health, such as self-regulation, limitations, other-directedness, over-vigilance, and social inhibition. Conclusion: In summary, there was a significant negative relationship between early maladaptive schemas and the mental health of students at Hamadan University of Medical Sciences. This study can be used to understand the factors affecting the mental health of students and their relationship with early maladaptive schemas.

The eight biological hallmarks of health that we initially postulated (Cell. 2021 Jan 7;184(1):33-63) include features of spatial compartmentalization (integrity of barriers, containment of local perturbations), maintenance of homeostasis over time (recycling & turnover, integration of circuitries, rhythmic oscillations) and an array of adequate responses to stress (homeostatic resilience, hormetic regulation, repair & regeneration). These hallmarks affect all eight somatic strata of the human body (molecules, organelles, cells, supracellular units, organs, organ systems, systemic circuitries and meta-organism). Here we postulate that mental and socioeconomic factors must be added to this 8×8 matrix as an additional hallmark of health (“psychosocial adaptation”) and as an additional stratum (“psychosocial interactions”), hence building a 9×9 matrix. Potentially, perturbation of each of the somatic hallmarks and strata affects psychosocial factors and vice versa. Finally, we discuss the (patho)physiological bases of these interactions and their implications for mental health improvement.

Background: This study aimed to provide a robust picture of the journey of service users with complex mental health needs by evaluating the perspectives of service users and carers with lived experience of services and gaining clinician views about decision making in relation to this cohort.Methods: A qualitative design was used. Service users (n = 11), carers (n = 10) and clinicians (n = 18) took part in semi-structured interviews, which were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis.Results: The following themes were identified by participants: ‘relationships with staff,’ ‘treatment options, pathways and availability,’ ‘the role of autonomy in recovery,’ ‘impact of out-of-area placements,’ and ‘specialist training for staff.’ The findings demonstrated that the journey of serviceusers can be impacted by a wide range of factors, including relationships with staff, the nature of support offered, community response, financial constraints, and organisational goals around bed pressures.Conclusions: Recommendations include the need for staff to work in partnership with service users and carers, foster autonomy, access specialised suicide prevention training, and agree discharge and contingency plans with service users. Further work is needed to deliver the best possible experience for individuals with complex mental health needs and those who care for them.

ABSTRACTBackground: Adolescence is the most crucial part of life. The vulnerability of adolescent mothers is even more pronounced and can affect various health aspects. While they suffer from social and emotional stresses shortly after giving birth, the long-term effect after the post-partum period of adolescent pregnancy on the mental outcomes holds prime importance. Thus, this systematic review aims to ascertain the association between adolescent pregnancy on mental health outcomes.Methods: The search strategy was run in June 2023 on databases including PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Psych Info, and Embase . Quality assessment of the studies was done using the National Institute of Health (NIH)’s National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) tool for observational studies. For studies that measured similar outcomes, a meta-analysis was conducted.Findings: The search strategy yielded 21 results from all databases and cross-referencing. Of these, all except for one (case–control) were cross-sectional and cohort studies. The pooled analysis found a significant association between adolescent pregnancy and depression (RR 1.34; 95% CI 1.05, 1.72, 6 studies, heterogeneity: Chi2 P 0.01; I2 = 60%); however, no association was found in anxiety (RR 1.05; 95% CI 0.26, 4.14, 2 studies; heterogeneity: Chi² P = 0.0003; I2 = 93%) and suicidal ideation (RR 3.21; 95% CI 0.17, 59.33; 3 studies; heterogeneity: Chi2 P

ABSTRACTBackground University is an important time in a young person's life. Although it is a time of exploration, self-discovery and socialising, it is also a time of increased vulnerability to mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. Studies have shown that engagement in mindfulness activities can have a positive effect on mental health. However, research is limited in its scope in particular in relation to stressful (transitional) periods of life.Methods The current study aims to address this issue by providing evidence on the predictive impact of both mindfulness practice and ‘dispositional' (or trait) mindfulness on students’ mental health. In total, we gathered data from 190 first-year students.Results A multiple regression was utilised for data analysis. This showed that ‘dispositional’ mindfulness, but not mindful activity had a significant impact on mental health scores.Conclusion This provides data for future research into the effectiveness of mindfulness interventions for student adaptation to university and potential interventions.

ABSTRACTBackground Adverse life experiences require a broader range of adaptive behavioral strategies to cope with related stressors. The association between intensity, duration, type of stress and impacts on mental health is important for effective programming aimed at increasing resilience in the face of stress. This study examines adverse life experiences, coping strategies, and associations with mental health outcomes among very young adolescent orphans.Methods The analytic sample was collected between January and March of 2019 and included 350 adolescent orphans ages 10–15 years old from three districts in Tanzania. Participants completed survey interviews, 75–90 minutes in length, that measured adverse life experiences, stigma, coping strategies, and psychological symptoms.Results A four-factor dimensional structure of the KidCope survey fits these data and distinguished between distraction and resignation coping strategies. Use of distraction as a coping dimension was the most frequently used coping dimension and was associated with lower reported symptoms of depression, anxiety, and externalizing behaviors. Resignation was positively associated with adverse life experiences including emotional abuse, emotional neglect, and physical neglect. Problem-focused coping was not associated with study outcomes and social support coping was associated with externalizing behaviors only.Conclusion Results from adolescent orphans in a low-resource context suggest that distraction coping strategies may be adaptive in response to stress. Implications for intervention programming that aims to target acquisition of coping skills and mindsets among vulnerable populations are discussed.

Background: The suffering associated with a cancer diagnosis can find different channels to express itself: sleep disorders, psychiatric disorders, sexuality. These are not always analyzed by health professionals, but they have an impact on the patient’s quality of life and on the outcome of the disease. Methods: An observational study was conducted in order to investigate attitudes, knowledge and clinical practice towards psychological symptoms in cancer patients. Results: A total of 132 clinicians from all Italian regions responded. In total, 99.2% (n = 131) considered the figure of the psychologist useful in the oncology field and recommended him/her in clinical practice (n = 115; 87.7%), especially in the terminal phase of the illness (58.6%; n = 99). Despite the importance given to the figure of the psychologist, psychiatric disorders are not diagnosed. Only 20.0% (n = 26) identified depressive disorder as accurate and only 33.9% (n = 43) identified demoralization syndrome as accurate. Conclusions: Results prove the need for training on psychological disorders in oncology and the emotional repercussions of cancer illness.

This article explores a debate that emerged within the Chinese medical community in the late 1920s and early 1930s. The debate, which centered on the respective roles played by the heart and brain in functions related to thinking, movement, and the onset of psychiatric disorders, concluded that neuropsychiatry's overriding emphasis on the brain was shortsighted. Instead, participants resolved that the brain and heart, alongside other organs and systems, were inextricably entwined, with many thought processes being governed by the heart. Although the discussion only lasted a few years, the insights it generated offer valuable theoretical contributions to contemporary conceptualizations of the mind/body duality. By highlighting alternative ways of understanding "mental" malfunction - theories that go beyond a narrow focus on the brain itself - Chinese medicine might provide a model for rethinking the relationships among the brain, the body, and different organs, systems, and physiological processes. The article ends by drawing a parallel between the heart vs. brain debate and recent research that seeks to show how gut health and heart health affect psychological and emotional wellbeing.

Objective: Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with chronic medical conditions often face significant challenges while transitioning from pediatric to adult healthcare (healthcare transition, HCT). Although some guidelines exist on how to facilitate this process, the specific role of psychologists in promoting successful HCT is not clearly defined. In this topical review, we propose a conceptual framework integrating the role of psychology within HCT. We also provide an agenda for behavioral health researchers investigating ways to improve transition services/care for emerging adults. Method: We first review existing standards of care and HCT guidelines. Using existing literature and the Got Transition model as a theoretical foundation, we developed a conceptual framework to outline the specific roles and recommendations for integrating psychologists in the HCT process, including recommendations for future research in this area. Results: Limited research has systematically examined the efficacy and effectiveness of HCT services, which vary widely across institutions and populations. Further, existing HCT guidelines/recommendations largely exclude the role of psychologists during this process. There are many opportunities for psychologists to provide essential services as part of an interdisciplinary HCT team and to better understand how to improve these models of care. Conclusions: Psychologists offer a unique and specialized element essential to fostering effective HCT. These professionals can take a more active role in promoting successful HCT from both clinical and research perspectives.

Background and Objectives: Cancer is among the main causes of death worldwide and the third cause of children’s death Iran. Children who suffer from cancer experience anxiety, and their parents’ mental health will be put in danger. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the relationship between parents’ mental health and anxiety in children with cancer in Hamadan, Iran, 2023. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 100 children aged between 6-18 years old with cancer who were accompanied by their parents and referred to the Hematology Ward of Besat Hospital, Hamadan, Iran, and had inclusion criteria were selected through available sampling. Data collection tools included the Demographic Information Questionnaire, Goldberg mental health questionnaire (GHQ-28), and multidimensional anxiety scale for children (MASC). The collected data was analyzed using SPSS (version 26) and correlation and regression tests. Results: The mean and SD of the age of the children was 9.59 ± 2.88 years, and most (55%) of the studied children were boys and had leukemia (42%). The mean and SD of parents' mental health was 27.56 (10.66), and children's anxiety was 60.8 (14.93). No statistically significant relationship was observed between the mental health of parents and the anxiety of children with cancer (P>0.05). Conclusion: The obtained results showed that there was no statistically significant relationship between parents' mental health and children's anxiety. Therefore, it is suggested to investigate these characteristics in a larger sample size and a different statistical population in future studies.

Fluctuating hormone levels during the menstrual cycle and major reproductive cycle stages have been linked to mood changes, mental health conditions, and an increased likelihood of psychotic episodes. This knowledge could potentially be used for the predictive modeling of exacerbations and mood deterioration through the collection and analysis of data from wearables and apps. A literature search for a narrative review has been conducted using selected keywords in Pubmed, Embase and Google Scholar. Based on published data, it can be seen that hormonal changes affect the severity of symptoms in several mental health conditions, including depression, PMDD, PTSD, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. The influence of FSH, LH, testosterone, and other hormone precursors has also been investigated, but there is less information available regarding their impact. E2 levels have been measured as a treatment–response biomarker and have demonstrated significant predictive ability for treatment responder groups. On the other hand, FSH has been demonstrated to be helpful in predicting treatment non-responder groups in schizophrenia. Monitoring reproductive hormones in combination with wearables or digital solutions has the potential to predict mood changes more effectively. Precise and frequent hormone measurements might prove to be more effective than relying on absolute threshold levels. Further research is needed to validate the utility and precision of hormone use in the field of mental health.

Background Stress and negative emotions have adverse consequences for the mental health of adolescents, an area that deserves further examination. These attributes are associated with each other and regularly interact in different ways. The way they exert an influence can be both direct and indirect, so the general objective is to elucidate the potential mediating effect of negative affects in the relationship between stress and mental health in Ecuadorian adolescents. Participants and procedure An explanatory and mediation design based on structural equation modeling (SEM) was applied with 1154 high school students from Ecuador (67.7% women) aged 14 to 19 years (M = 15.69). Results In our sample, the presence of stress and negative affect is moderate, while that of mental health problems is low. Accord-ing to our final model, these variables covary with and influence each other in the following way: stress (X) has a direct effect on mental health (Y) and also an indirect effect mediated by negative affect (M). The structural regression model pro-posed explains 63% of the variance in mental health. Conclusions Stress exerts a relevant impact on mental health, both through direct and indirect pathways. The indirect pathway, mediat-ed by negative affect, opens the door to novel interventional strategies to foster mental health.

ABSTRACTBackground Research has demonstrated the importance of understanding risk factors for mental health and wellbeing. Less research has focused on protective factors that protect mental health and promote wellbeing in diverse contexts. Estimating structural paths from risk protective factors to psychopathology and wellbeing can inform prioritization of targeted investment in adolescent health programs that seek to modify factors that are most closely associated with mental wellbeing.Study objective The purpose of this study was to examine risk factors (e.g. emotional neglect, emotional abuse, physical neglect, stigma) and protective factors (e.g. community relationships, self-esteem, and autonomy) among adolescent orphans, protective associations with depression, anxiety and externalizing behaviors and promotive associations with hope, happiness, and health.Methods The analytic sample was collected between January and March of 2019 and included 350 adolescent orphans ages 10–15 from three districts in Tanzania. Participants completed survey interviews, 75–90 min in length, that measured risk and protective factors, psychological symptoms, and mental wellbeing measures.Results Results of the fitted structural equation model indicated that structural paths from protective factors to psychopathology (β = −0.53, p = 0.015) and mental wellbeing (β = 0.72, p = 0.014) outcomes were significant. Structural paths from risk factors to psychopathology (β = −0.34, p = 0.108) and mental wellbeing (β = −0.24, p = 0.405) were not significant.Conclusion In a sample of vulnerable youth, protective factors (e.g. community relationships, self-esteem, and autonomy) were significantly associated with reduced depression, anxiety and externalizing behaviors and increased hope, happiness, and health in a structural equation model that included risk factors (emotional neglect, emotional abuse, physical neglect). Results suggest that strong community relationships, self-esteem and autonomy may be important modifiable factors to target in intervention programs aimed at supporting adolescent mental wellbeing.

Introduction Anxiety is one of the most prevalent mental illnesses in first world societies, generating discomfort in the people who suffer from it, and high expenses and economic losses in the society. The physical activity (PA) performed, together with the perceived social support (PSS) by people with anxiety could be related to the psychological distress of people with anxiety. Objectives To study the relationships between mental health and its dimensions, through Golberg’s General Health Questionnaire (GHQ12), and the level of PA (PAL) and the PSS in the Spanish adult population with anxiety. Hypothesis A higher PAL, and a higher PSS, is related to a lower psychological distress in this population. Design and Methodology This study included 1,661 adults with anxiety, residents in Spain. It was a cross-sectional study with data obtained from the Spanish National Health Survey. A Kolmogorov–Smirnov test was applied to examine the data distribution of the variables. The median and interquartile range were used to characterize the sample for continuous variables, and absolute and relative frequencies were used for categorical variables. The Mann–Whitney U test was used to examine the differences between sexes. Dependence between PAL and sex was studied using the chi-square statistic. A Krustal–Wallis test was used to evaluate the existence of differences in the baseline medians on the GHQ-12, according to PAL level. Finally, the correlations between mental health and its dimensions with PAL and the Duke-UNC-11 scores were analysed, obtaining Spearman’s rho and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Results Moderate inverse correlations were found between the GHQ-12 and: PAL (rho: −0.219); PSS (r: −0.347). PAL and PSS presented moderate inverse correlations with successful coping (rho: −0.206 and r: −0.325), self-esteem (rho: −0.222 and r: −0.333) and stress (rho: −0.158 and r: −0.288). Conclusions Greater PAL and social support are associated with reduced psychological distress in people with anxiety.

L'accès aux études médicales odontologiques, pharmaceutiques ou de sage-femmes a été ouvert à des candidats n'ayant pas effectué de première année en sciences médicales depuis l'arrêté du 26 mars 1993 abrogé et remplacé par l'arrêté du 26 juillet 2010. Cette procédure « passerelles » relative aux modalités d'admission directe en deuxième ou troisième année d'études a connu différentes modifications jusqu'à aujourd'hui. Le cadre réglementaire prévoit l'accès à ce dispositif, entre autres, aux titulaires du diplôme de Master. Les psychologues (nécessairement détenteurs d'un diplôme de Master) sont éligibles à ces dispositifs permettant l'intégration aux études médicales. Les psychologues intéressés peuvent ainsi envisager la perspective d'une carrière médicale en reprenant leurs études en milieu ou fin de premier cycle universitaire. Dans cet entretien avec Jean-Pierre Bouchard, les psychologues Sarah Thierrée, Josué Masson et Théo Lemonnier échangent autour de leurs expériences. Ils présentent le dispositif, ses apports, ses limites, ainsi que les difficultés et satisfactions qu'ils ont rencontrées en empruntant cette nouvelle voie. Access to medical, pharmaceutical dentistry or midwifery studies has been opened to candidates who have not completed a first year in medical sciences since the decree of March 26, 1993 repealed and replaced by the decree of September 2, 2010. This "gateway" device relating to the procedures for direct admission to the second or third year of studies has been subject to various modifications until the decree of July 29, 2022. The regulatory framework provides for access to this device by holders according to their initial training. Among them is the Master's degree. Thus, psychologists (necessarily holders of a Master's degree) are eligible for these systems allowing integration into medical studies. Psychologists can thus consider the prospect of a medical career by resuming their studies in the middle or at the end of their first university cycle. In this interview with Jean-Pierre Bouchard, psychologists Sarah Thierrée, Josué Masson and Théo Lemonnier discuss their experiences. They present the device, the contributions, the limits, as well as the difficulties and satisfactions they may have encountered during their experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective A few surveys have indicated that behavioural restrictions during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic have affected sleep and mental health. This study examined (1) the change in sleep-wake habits before and during the first self-restraint in Japan, (2) the factors that affect mental health, and (3) the model of mental health affecting the sleep quality, of workers.Design A cross-sectional internet survey.Outcome Measures A total of 512 Japanese workers self-assessed their sleep quality, loneliness, anxiety, and depression during self-restraint. Their previous sleep habits were also assessed.Results Sleep habits remained almost regular, but 35.7% of participants reported poor sleep quality. Additionally, among the participants, 82.2% reported social loneliness, 37.9% reported emotional loneliness, 25.6% reported anxiety moods, and 49.0% reported depressive moods. Anxiety and depression were influenced by emotional and social loneliness, and marital status. These results showed that social and emotional loneliness worsened sleep quality with anxiety and depression. On the contrary, emotional loneliness had a significant and direct effect on sleep quality but not on social loneliness.Conclusion This study shows that psychological factors affect subjective sleep quality during self-restraint. Psychological factors, such as loneliness, anxiety, and depression should be considered when maintaining good sleep quality under self-restraint.

This study investigates how mediating (e.g. history of health conditions) and moderating (e.g. self-rated health) factors are associated with nativity status on depression and anxiety in Mexican immigrants. Using data from the 2019 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), results found a significant direct association between nativity status and anxiety and depression. Additionally, the association between nativity status and mental health was mediated by the history of health conditions, and self-rated health was a significant moderator in both mediation models. Study findings are discussed within the context of barriers to care, current literature, and strengths-based interventions. Future research can expand upon these findings by examining the specific types of physical and mental health conditions that may support the Hispanic Paradox, as well as how self-efficacy and internal locus of control are associated with the paradox within this population.

Background: Gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) are at far greater risk of experiencing poor mental health (MH) than wider society. This disparity was exacerbated by additional ‘unique to sexual minority status’ COVID-19 stressors.Objective: This sequential, mixed-methods study examined remote MH help-seeking among GBMSM in the U.K. and Ireland during the first COVID-19 lockdown.Methods and Results: Quantitative survey data (n = 1368), analysed with logistic regression, suggested GBMSM experiencing moderate-to-severe anxiety and those with a past MH diagnosis were most likely to seek MH support. Thematic analysis of qualitative interview (n = 18) data identified multiple barriers and enablers to GBMSM seeking remote MH help, with the help primarily sought from GBMSM-facing organisations and generic online resources. Finally, the behaviour change wheel was used to generate theoretically informed recommendations to promote MH help-seeking among GBMSM in Scotland.Implications: We discuss how applying these recommendations in the short, medium and long term will begin to address GBMSM’s MH needs, post COVID-19.

Background: The aim of the study was to present metal health, psychosocial functioning and quality of life (QoL) of children and adolescents with a difference in sex development (DSD) from their first visit in the newly established multidisciplinary team in 2002–2004 in Norway. A secondary aim was to explore mental health, psychosocial functioning and QoL in the same cohort patient’s as for today and finally explore any childhood predictors for these outcomes in adulthood.Methods: The first part of the study took place in 2002–2004 in a mixed cohort of children and adolescents born with a DSD in 1982–2002, compared to a healthy comparison group. This part involved semi-structured interviews and self-reported and proxy-reported questionnaires. The second part of the study is a longitudinal study of the same participants 15–20 years later (2018–2020).Results: The participants at baseline of the study consisted of 33 patients; 24 assigned females (congenital adrenal hyperplasia, androgen insensitivity syndrome, gonadal dysgenesis and ovotesticular DSD) and nine assigned males; all with a hypospadias diagnosis. Significant differences were found for behavioral and emotional problems between groups, 46, XX females with significant higher total scores on YSR (49.43 + 24.17, p = .047); 46, XY females (21.00 + 12.04, p = .032); and higher internalizing problems scores (YSR) in 46, XX females (16.57 + 9.74), compared with the 46, XY females (5.60 + 5.32, p = .047). A positive association between QoL of the participants in adulthood and PedsQL’ social function (r = .657, p = .020) and psychosocial function in childhood (r = .596, p = .041) was found.Conclusions: In summary, this study demonstrated that adolescents assigned females with DSD might have more psychiatric problems and a poorer degree of psychosocial functioning compared to a healthy comparison group. As we do find an association with these problems in adolescence and later adult QoL, it is of great importance to respond to these behaviors in early life.

Background This study examined whether work engagement mediated the association between emotion regulation and mental health of professionals working in long-term care institutions for older adults in Brazil. Participants and procedure A cross-sectional study with a total of 104 professionals working in 13 long-term care facilities for the elderly in Brazil was conducted. Emotion regulation (expressive suppression and cognitive reappraisal), work engagement (vigor, dedication, and absorption), and mental health (depression, anxiety, and stress) were measured using self-report scales. Multiple me-diation models were used to test the mediating role of engagement. Results Expressive suppression was associated with more vigor, which in turn was associated with less anxiety and stress; cognitive reappraisal was associated with more vigor, which in turn was associated with less anxiety and stress. No indirect effects were found for depression. Conclusions Expressive suppression and cognitive reappraisal strategies to regulate emotions seem to be associated with more vigor in terms of resilience and persistence to deal with work demands in these professionals. These results seem to suggest that workers who are more capable of regulating their emotions (using both expressive suppression and cognitive reappraisal in a flexible way according to work demands) are more likely to be resilient, invest in their profession, and be persistent in the face of difficulties. This, in turn, contributes to protecting them from experiencing anxiety and stress.

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental syndrome diagnosed primarily by persistent deficits in social interactions and communication, unusual sensory reactivity, motor stereotypies, repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests. No FDA-approved medical treatments exist for the diagnostic symptoms of autism. Here we interrogate multiple pharmacological targets in two distinct mouse models that incorporate well-replicated autism-relevant behavioral phenotypes. Compounds that modify inhibitory or excitatory neurotransmission were selected to address hypotheses based on previously published biological abnormalities in each model. Shank3B is a genetic model of a mutation found in autism and Phelan-McDermid syndrome, in which deficits in excitatory neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity have been reported. BTBR is an inbred strain model of forms of idiopathic autism in which reduced inhibitory neurotransmission and excessive mTOR signaling have been reported. The GABA-A receptor agonist gaboxadol significantly reduced repetitive self-grooming in three independent cohorts of BTBR. The TrkB receptor agonist 7,8-DHF improved spatial learning in Shank3B mice, and reversed aspects of social deficits in BTBR. CX546, a positive allosteric modulator of the glutamatergic AMPA receptor, and d-cycloserine, a partial agonist of the glycine site on the glutamatergic NMDA receptor, did not rescue aberrant behaviors in Shank3B mice. The mTOR inhibitor rapamycin did not ameliorate social deficits or repetitive behavior in BTBR mice. Comparison of positive and negative pharmacological outcomes, on multiple phenotypes, evaluated for replicability across independent cohorts, enhances the translational value of mouse models of autism for therapeutic discovery. GABA agonists present opportunities for personalized interventions to treat components of autism spectrum disorder. Autism Res 2019, 12: 401-421 © 2019 The Authors. Autism Research published by International Society for Autism Research published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. LAY SUMMARY: Many of the risk genes for autism impair synapses, the connections between nerve cells in the brain. A drug that reverses the synaptic effects of a mutation could offer a precision therapy. Combining pharmacological and behavioral therapies could reduce symptoms and improve the quality of life for people with autism. Here we report reductions in repetitive behavior by a GABA-A receptor agonist, gaboxadol, and improvements in social and cognitive behaviors by a TrkB receptor agonist, in mouse models of autism.

The restrictions on the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) have had a significant emotional impact on the general population and could lead to high levels of psychological distress. Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may be more vulnerable in this widespread because of persistent difficulties in social interaction and communication as well as constrained and repetitive patterns of behavior. The goal of this study is to review studies that assess how COVID-19 affects autistic people's psychological and mental health. This study is a narrative review. The subjects included in these studies consisted of individuals with autism, their parents, families and caregivers. The findings revealed that responses to the pandemic varied, with some autistic persons displaying improvements and others demonstrating deterioration in mental health. Variables like biological vulnerability, isolation, and loss of social support, adjustments to household roles and dynamics, and family conflicts all related to reductions in mental health.

Background Evidence about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on existing health inequalities is emerging. This study explored dif-ferences in mental health, sense of coherence (SOC), sense of community coherence (SOCC), sense of national coherence (SONC), and social support between low and high socioeconomic (SES) groups, and the predictive value of these predictors for mental health. Material and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online survey in the Netherlands in October 2021, comprising a total of 91 respondents (n = 41, low SES; n = 50, high SES). Results There were no differences in mental health, SOC, SOCC, SONC, and social support between the groups. SOC was a predictor for mental health in both groups and SOCC for the low SES group. Conclusions We found that both SOC and SOCC predict mental health during the pandemic. In the article we reflect on possible path-ways for strengthening these resources for mental health.

This paper explores the lived experience of mental illness within the field of psychology across higher education and the mental health workforce. There is a high prevalence of mental health issues among psychology students and practitioners, and it is critical not only to provide support for these populations, but also to acknowledge the value of leveraging their lived experience within their education and practice. There has been increased interest in and advocacy for the involvement of those with lived experience of mental illness within mental healthcare service provision to improve patient experiences and outcomes. However, there have been limited acknowledgement and research regarding the role of psychologists with personal lived experiences of mental illness, and how to leverage this experience. Further, there are challenges faced by both psychology students and practising psychologists with lived experience that act as barriers to leveraging their unique skills and experiences. Psychology students with lived experience face stigma, inadequate support, and incongruence between the course material and their personal experiences. Similarly, practising psychologists with lived experience encounter stigma and isolation, indicating the need for a culture change that promotes transparency and understanding. The paper calls for research in five key directions to provide evidence that can be used to support and leverage lived experience in psychology.

Introduction: Telemedicine acted as one of the biggest medium in treating Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) patients during the second wave of the still ongoing pandemic. Although the symptoms were taken care of and treated through teleconsultation, the loneliness and social support system of these patients went largely unrecognised. The morbidity pattern, effect of self-isolation and quarantine, uncertainties in social support were major contributors to loneliness among patients suffering from COVID-19. Aim: To estimate the proportion of loneliness and level of social support experienced by COVID-19 patients seeking advice from a telemedicine centre of Kolkata and to find out their socio-clinical profile and the associated relationship. Materials and Methods: An observational study with cross-sectional design was conducted on 403 COVID-19 patients, who had taken advice from the telemedicine centre of Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research (IPGME and R), Kolkata for a period of 12 weeks (May-July 2021). Loneliness was assessed by the 11-item De Jong Gierveld Loneliness scale, whereas social support was assessed using 12-item Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support scale through telephonic interview. Data were tabulated in the Microsoft Office Excel 2019 (Microsoft Corp, Redmond, WA, USA) and the analysis was performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (IBM, New York City, USA) version 25.0. Results: Out of 403, more than half of the study population, 194 (48.2%) belonged to 18-35 years of age. Of the total, 235 (58.3%) were males, 319 (79.2%) were currently married and 300 (74.4%) were Hindus. About 142 (35.2%) respondents had experienced severe loneliness, while 297 (73.7%) had experienced high social support. There was a significant negative correlation found between loneliness and social support (r=-0.495, p-value

Psychosomatic conditions are generally discussed in broad and general terms that are difficult to conceptualize and have neither specific identified etiological factors nor consensus for treatment. This paper was written as a broad overview of psychosomatic conditions in order to provide clarity to the topic. Several databases were searched including Medline and PsychInfo and reference lists from relevant publications. Literature was sought out f or psychosomatic conditions, somatoform disorders, and medical illnesses with psychosomatic components. A general description of psychosomatic conditions and overarching themes were identified which include: lack of a universal definition, poor compatibility between psychological diagnoses and diagnoses outside of psychology, unclear etiology, psychosomatic factors occur in many illnesses, holistic perspective is preferred, poor patient insight regarding symptoms, strong family influence, and pediatric-liaison teams are strongly encouraged in diagnosis and treatment. Treatment is often highly individualized utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, pharmacotherapy and pediatric-liaison teams with a biopsychosocial focus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is the deadliest public health emergency in the twenty-first century. To mitigate the rapid spread of the virus, institutions around the globe, including higher education, instituted infection control measures such as social distancing and restricted movements with virtual/remote work and learning environments. These changes, including the pandemic-related stressors, are associated with poor mental health among college students. However, student-mothers may encounter an aggravated psychological impact of the pandemic because of their competing and challenging intersecting roles. Multipronged strategies and targeted-mental health services that consider the needs of student-mothers, their children, and families are encouraged to mitigate the pandemic’s impact. Doing so has important implications for public health, policy, and research.

Objectives: To study the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the socio-demographic and clinical profiles of patients who were admitted to a tertiary psychiatric hospital in the UAE during 2020 compared with the corresponding period in 2019, and to evaluate the effect of the pandemic on the mental healthcare system. Methods: Socio-demographic and clinical data of the patients from March 11 to June 11 in 2019 and 2020 was collected anonymously from hospital electronic medical records. The characteristics of the two patient cohorts were compared statistically. Results: A total of 337 patient admissions to the hospital during March 11 to June 11, 2020 against 189 admissions in the corresponding period in 2019. In the multiple logistic regression model, the admissions in 2020 were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with bipolar disorder (odds ratio ( OR) = 1.902; p =0.028) and were significantly to have no prior psychiatric history (OR = 4.255, p < 0.001), compared to those cases admitted in 2019. Conclusions: This study is unique for evaluating the patterns of hospitalization at a specific psychiatric hospital during the first three months of the pandemic in the UAE. The findings of this study will support the public health sector in designing mental health strategies in pandemic situations. A longitudinal multicenter study would give more insight into the overall impact of the pandemic on mental health.

Objective (s): Pregnancy is a distinct period in the womenchr('39')s life, which involves extensive changes, especially in the psychological aspects, which are sometimes out of control and lead to different damages to the health and well-being of mother and child. However, despite the importance of this issue, little information is available in this regard. Thus the purpose of the study was to better understand the psychological challenges of pregnancy. Methods: This was a qualitative study with a conventional content analysis approach that conducted in 2017. Data was collected from in-depth semi-structured individual interviews. The participants were pregnant women who were referred to health care services in Tehran. After 28 interviews, the data saturation achieved and finally the available data were analyzed with Maxqda 10 software. Results: Mothers from different social back grounds, educational levels and aged 18-41 years old, participated in the study. The analysis indicated 4 categories (fear of loss, negative body image, depression and lake of mental control) were explored as mothers’ psychology challenges in pregnancy. Conclusion: Maternal health care providers should reduce maternal anxiety by providing a comprehensive health-oriented program and education about the dimensions and reversibility of pregnancy events.

Background Countries recognize the risk of mental health difficulties during the perinatal period and the potential benefits of screening and early detection of depressive symptomatology. This study aimed to analyse mothers’ views on screening for postpartum depression (PPD) in Poland, where a new standard of perinatal care imposed (from January 2019) the obligation to monitor women’ postpartum mental state. Material and methods 150 women participated in the study. In the first stage, PPD symptoms were assessed with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) among postpartum women during midwives’ home visits. The second stage consisted of a telephone survey with the EPDS and questions exploring mothers’ perception of midwife competencies in screening for PPD. Results Most women identified as relatively high midwives’ competencies in communicating information about PPD, interpretation of the EPDS score and their ability to create comfortable conditions of the assessment and further discussion about postpartum mental health changes. Women with an elevated level of PPD symptoms assessed as significantly lower midwives’ competence in this last aspect and those who had a caesarean section tend to assess as lower the usefulness of provided information on care of a newborn. Conclusions Midwives should be aware and prepared for a possible critical attitude of patients, which may be a sign of a depression. Otherwise, medical staff may not be willing to interact with a mother and offer her help and support. The ability to create a friendly condition in spite of adversity can contribute to the desire of women to undergo screening, discussion about the result and further treatment.

Background: The present COVID-19 pandemic is a major threat worldwide. Health professionals being within the front line of the COVID-19 outbreak response are at the highest risk of getting infected. Such pandemics are always associated with ill effects on mental health also. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study included all the health care professionals working in the Jumbo COVID Care Center, Mumbai. Details of health care professionals were obtained from the authority of Jumbo COVID Care Center, Mumbai. Amongst 350 health care professionals, 285 responded (Response rate: 81.42%). A questionnaire, consisting of 19 structured, self-administered, and closed-ended questions, was employed online, and information regarding age, gender, profession, etc., was collected. It was then tabulated and subjected further to an analysis. Results: Most health care professionals (96.1%) were aware that COVID-19 is not only affecting physical but mental health too, also posts on social media (86.3%) are affecting mental health more than the actual disease. A total of 95.8% agreed that health care/frontline workers are at the highest risk and felt the need for psychiatrists in the present pandemic. (81.4%) They were also worried thinking about elderly people with comorbidities in their homes. (82.1%). Conclusion: From the present study, it can be concluded that the present pandemic is affecting not only physical but mental health also, and there is an increased need for psychiatrists and mental health care professionals to overcome the same.

Alopecia is associated with significant psychological burden. There is limited evidence on the use of psychological interventions in conditions of hair loss. This manuscript systematically reviews the current state of literature on psychological treatments for quality of life, mental health, and hair growth in various forms of alopecia. PubMed and Embase were searched with predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Reference lists were also examined for relevant studies. Nine articles met our criteria and are included in this review. Eight of the articles related to alopecia areata and one related to scarring alopecia. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) was found to improve quality of life-related subjective symptoms, relationship impacts, anxiety, phobia, distress, and psychological symptom intensity. Alopecia-specific collocated behavioral health (CLBH) treatment showed a trend for psychosocial improvement in areas such as appearance shame, activity avoidance, negative emotions, and coping. Hypnotherapy was found to improve anxiety and depression, quality of life measures, and alexithymia. There was also some evidence for significant hair growth with hypnosis, but the data are mixed. Psychotherapy combined with immunotherapy led to more hair growth, and supported self-confidence. Finally, coping strategies modulated the subjective burden of alopecia, and were associated with disease improvement. Further research will be necessary to better establish the efficacy and optimal administration of these interventions in alopecia.

Background and Objectives: Mental health is the ability to withstand problems and emotional intelligence is the ability to understand and control emotions and to bring order and stability to life. The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between mental health and emotional intelligence in students' academic success. Materials and Methods: This study was a descriptive-analytical and correlation study that was performed on 94 operating room students of Hamadan Paramedical Faculty in 2019. Sampling was done by census method. Data gathering tools were Emotional Inventory Imani et al. 2018, Goldberg Mental Health Questionnaire and Standard Academic success Questionnaire. Data were analyzed by SPSS 23 software. Results: Data analysis showed that there was a direct, positive and positive linear relationship between emotional intelligence and mental health in the operating room students in semesters four (r = 0.858) and six (r = 0.932) and eight (r = 0.846). There is a meaning. Also, there was a direct, positive and significant linear relationship between emotional intelligence and academic success (mean grade) of operating room students in semesters four (r = 0.867) and six (r = 0.818) and eight (r = 0.766). In addition, there was a direct, positive and significant linear relationship between mental health and academic success (mean grade) of operating room students in semesters four (r = 0.837) and six (r = 0.814) and eight (r = 0.798). Conclusions: The findings of this study showed that the higher the emotional intelligence and mental health of students in the required educational levels, the better the academic success of students.

Background and Objectives: People with hearing impairments are exposed to many health problems. These deficiencies can disrupt the mental health and other aspects of daily living. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between emotional intelligence and resilience with mental health in people with hearing loss. Materials and Methods: The statistical population consisted of all persons with hearing impairment referred to the audiology center of Faculty of Rehabilitation of Tehran University of Medical Sciences in 98-97 and the sample included 154 persons who were selected by available method. Questionnaires were included Goldberg and Hiller's General Health (1979), Bar-An's Emotional Intelligence (1980) and Conner and Davidson's Resiliency questionnaires (2003). Data were analyzed using correlation and stepwise regression. Results: The results of this study showed that all dimensions of emotional intelligence and resiliency had significant positive relationship with mental health. The results of regression analysis also showed that the variables of independence, self-concept, problem solving, optimism, and impulse control were able to predict mental health and explain 21% of its variance. Conclusions: The findings of this study highlight the necessity of considering the underlying variables of emotional intelligence and resilience in mental health of people with hearing impairment and draw the attention of mental health professionals to this issue.

Background Universities around the world are facing an epidemic of mental distress among their students. The problem is truly a public health issue, affecting many and with serious consequences. The global burden of disease-agenda calls for effective interventions with lasting effects that have the potential to improve the mental health of young adults. In this study we aimed to determine whether yoga, a popular and widely available mind-body practice, can improve student mental health. Methods We performed a randomised controlled trial with 202 healthy university students in the Oslo area. The participants were assigned to a yoga group or waitlist control group in a 1:1 ratio by a simple online randomisation program. The intervention group was offered 24 yoga sessions over 12 weeks. Measurements were taken at week 0 (baseline), week 12 (post-intervention), and week 24 (follow-up). The primary outcome was psychological distress assessed by the HSCL-25 questionnaire. Analysis was performed based on the intention to treat-principle. Results Between 24 January 2017, and 27 August 2017, we randomly assigned 202 students to a yoga intervention group (n = 100), or waitlist control group (n = 102). Compared with the control group, the yoga participants demonstrated a significant reduction in distress symptoms both at post-intervention (adjusted difference in the mean change −0.15, 95% CI −0.26 to −0.03, p = 0.0110) and follow-up (adjusted difference in the mean change −0.18, 95% CI −0.29 to −0.06, p = 0.0025). Sleep quality also improved at post-intervention and follow-up. No adverse events were reported. Conclusions Our findings suggest that yoga has a moderately large and lasting effect, at least for some months, reducing symptoms of distress and improving sleep quality among students. Further research should seek ways to enhance the effect, assess an even longer follow-up period, include active control groups, and consider performing similar studies in other cultural settings. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04258540.

Background Previous studies showed that food insecurity could adversely affect clinical outcomes of people living with HIV (PLWH). The mental health pathways of such effects are suggested in existing literature, but empirical data are limited in resource-limited settings. Methods This cross-sectional study aims to explore the role of depressive symptoms and anxiety on the association between food insecurity and CD4 counts among a sample of 2,987 PLWH in Guangxi, China. Path analysis was used to examine a hypothetical model and delta z test was used to assess the indirect effects of food insecurity on CD4 counts through depressive symptoms and anxiety. Results The prevalence of food insecurity in this sample was 25.3%, and the median CD4 counts were 318 cells/mm3. In correlation analyses, food insecurity was not directly associated with LogCD4 but was associated with depressive symptoms and anxiety. Path analysis indicated a significant indirect effect from food insecurity to LogCD4 through depressive symptoms, but not anxiety. Conclusion Improving mental health among PLWH with food insecurity may be beneficial for treatment outcomes. Besides intervening food insecurity, an intervention targeting depressive symptoms could improve the immunologic outcomes of PLWH.

Background and Objective: Mental health is necessary to maintain the survival of social, occupational and educational activities of the community, and is the main goal of the implementation of mental health programs in the community. The aim of this study was to investigate the mental health status (physical signs, anxiety, depression and social function) and some related factors of welders in Zahedan city. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in which 145 of the welders were selected by census. The Goldberg General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) was used to data collection. Data was analyzed using SPSS20, one-way ANOVA and independent t-test was applied in significance level of p less than 0.05. Results: The mean of age and work experience in the study population were 33.15 ± 9.28 and 13.48 ± 9.15 years, respectively, and 117 participants (80.7%) were married. The prevalence of tobacco use was 17.9%. The average of mental health score was different in terms of marital status, BMI, education level and age group, which observed a significant differences in marital status, BMI and educational level (P= 0.02, P= 0.04, P

Physical Activity (PA) could contribute to decreasing psychological distress and improving Self-Perceived Health (SPH) in adults with Asthma. The main objective of this study was to analyse the associations between the Physical Activity Level (PAL) Perceived Social Support (PSS) and Mental Health, using the Goldberg General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), and SPH in the adult population with Asthma. This descriptive cross-sectional study is based on data from the 2017 Spanish National Health Survey, including 1040 participants with Asthma in the study. The Kruskal–Wallis test was performed to study the hypothetical differences between the PAL and the different variables derived from the GHQ-12. In addition, correlations between the variables generated and the items of the GHQ-12, together with the PAL and the Duke-UNC-11, were analysed using Spearman’s rho correlation coefficients. Inverse correlations were found between Mental Health and PSS (rho: −0.351) and between Mental Health and PAL (rho: −0.209), as well as in the rest of the GHQ-12 items: successful coping (rho: −0.197), self-esteem (rho: −0.193) and stress (rho: −0.145). The more active subjects had better SPH. Therefore, the research showed how higher PAL and positive SPH are related to lower psychological distress in adults with Asthma.

Perceived social support (PSS) and physical activity (PA) could help to reduce psychological distress in people with depression. This study aims to analyse the associations between (a) mental health and its dimensions through the Goldberg General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), (b) the PA level (PAL), and c) the PSS in the Spanish adult population with psychological distress. This cross-sectional study is based on Spanish National Health Survey 2017 data, including 1670 adults with depression. A descriptive analysis was performed. Differences in medians between sexes were analysed using the Mann–Whitney U test. The Chi-square test was used to assess the independence between sex and PAL. The Kruskal–Wallis’ test was performed to analyse possible baseline differences between PAL and continuous variables derived from the GHQ-12. Finally, a correlation study was conducted between the generated variables and the GHQ-12 items, together with the PAL and the Duke-UNC-11, using Spearman’s rho correlation coefficients. Weak inverse correlations were found between the GHQ-12 and PAL (rho: −0.214); and PSS (r: −0.286). PAL and PSS showed weak inverse correlations with successful coping (rho: −0.216 and r: −0.265), self-esteem (rho: −0.209 and r: −0.283), and stress (rho: −0.130 and r: −0.232). Thus, higher PAL and SSP is associated with lower psychological distress.