International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

Research

13 pages, 647 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Young Adults at the National Epicenter of the COVID-19 Outbreak: Understanding the Impact and Future Challenges of Social Distancing on Mental Health Outcomes

by Sana Malik, Ijeoma Opara, David T. Lardier, Jr., Jessica Younger and R. Neil Greene

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(1), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21010033 - 26 Dec 2023

Viewed by 1812

Abstract

Objectives. To understand the role and future implications of social distancing on mental health and substance use in young adults between the ages of 18 and 35 living in high-disease-prevalent areas of New York. Methods. Participants completed a self-administered online survey through Qualtrics. [...] Read more.

Objectives. To understand the role and future implications of social distancing on mental health and substance use in young adults between the ages of 18 and 35 living in high-disease-prevalent areas of New York. Methods. Participants completed a self-administered online survey through Qualtrics. Results. 43.9% of the sample met criteria for moderate or severe anxiety, and 53.1% of the sample met criteria for moderate to severe depression. 76.1% of the sample experienced both anxiety and depressive symptoms. Despite this, the rates of lifetime mental health diagnoses, treatment, and access to mental health services were low. Rates of depression and anxiety differed across socio-demographic variables (gender, income, sexuality, education, and insurance status). Experiencing severe symptoms of the COVID-19 virus, poor coping skills, loneliness, increased alcohol use, and sleep disturbances were linked to higher rates of depression, anxiety, or both. Conclusion. As the first epicenter of COVID-19 in the United States, New York represents an important location for prevention researchers to learn about how COVID-19 affected a diverse population of young adults. It is essential that researchers and practitioners proactively develop early and appropriate interventions to address the ongoing mental health crisis and also plan for future crises. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

13 pages, 373 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Psychopathological Burden among Healthcare Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic Compared to the Pre-Pandemic Period

by Sara Gostoli, Angelica D’Oronzo, Carlotta Malaguti, Francesco Guolo, Cristian Balducci, Regina Subach, Vittorio Lodi, Carmine Petio and Chiara Rafanelli

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(24), 7153; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20247153 - 7 Dec 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2101

Abstract

This retrospective observational study on hospital staff requesting an “application visit” (from 2017 to 2022) at the Occupational Medicine department aimed at comparing a “pre-COVID group” (2017–2019) with a “COVID group” (2020–2022) regarding (a) sociodemographic data (i.e., age, sex, occupation, years of employment [...] Read more.

This retrospective observational study on hospital staff requesting an “application visit” (from 2017 to 2022) at the Occupational Medicine department aimed at comparing a “pre-COVID group” (2017–2019) with a “COVID group” (2020–2022) regarding (a) sociodemographic data (i.e., age, sex, occupation, years of employment at the hospital), (b) rate and type of psychiatric diagnoses in both groups and rate of psychiatric diagnoses per subject, and (c) rate of drug/psychotherapeutic prescriptions. Two hundred and five healthcare workers (F = 73.7%; mean age = 50.7 ± 10.33) were visited. Compared with the pre-COVID group, healthcare workers evaluated during COVID-19 were significantly younger and reported fewer years of employment at the hospital. Although rates of primary psychiatric diagnoses were similar in both samples, an increased number of psychopathologies per subject and associated treatment prescriptions in the COVID group was observed. In the COVID group, 61% had one psychiatric diagnosis, and 28% had 2+ psychiatric diagnoses, compared with 83.8% and 6.7% of pre-COVID. Furthermore, 56.2%/1.9% in pre-COVID and 73%/6% in the COVID group were prescribed drugs/psychotherapy, respectively. The findings of the present study highlighted an increase in both younger workers’ requests and psychiatric comorbidities during the pandemic, representing a burden on the Italian healthcare system. It is thus relevant to address the mental health challenges of healthcare workers accordingly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

19 pages, 1046 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Aftermath of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Resilience and Mental Health of Emerging Adult University Students

by Sophie Leontopoulou

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(20), 6911; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20206911 - 11 Oct 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2574

Abstract

This study explored the relationship between COVID-19 impacts and resilience in emerging adulthood during the final two months of the pandemic. It aimed to examine whether mental health symptoms moderated this relationship. In total, 205 university students completed an online questionnaire survey. Regression [...] Read more.

This study explored the relationship between COVID-19 impacts and resilience in emerging adulthood during the final two months of the pandemic. It aimed to examine whether mental health symptoms moderated this relationship. In total, 205 university students completed an online questionnaire survey. Regression analysis was used to examine the prediction of resilience by pandemic-related impacts, and moderation analysis was used to explore the potential moderating effect of mental health on the relationship between impacts and resilience. The findings failed to confirm the hypothesis that total COVID-19 impacts would predict resilience. Rather, resource-type impacts predicted resilience [B = 0.17, p < 0.5]. Significant partial correlations found among resource, financial, and psychological impacts may go some way toward clarifying connections between impacts and resilience [for resource-type impact with financial-type impact, r = 0.48, p < 0.01; for resource-type impact with psychological impact, r = 0.22, p < 0.01]. The results confirmed the hypothesis that mental health symptoms would moderate the relationship between pandemic impacts and resilience [for the overall model, R = 0.41, ΔR² = 0.16, MSE = 0.76, F (4, 200) = 10.19, p < 0.001; for the interaction between total COVID impacts and resilience, ΔR² = 0.017, F (1, 200) = 3.98, p < 0.05]. Thus, emerging adult students with low or moderate levels of symptomatology were more resilient, independently of the level of pandemic-related stressors they faced. Those experiencing higher levels of mental health symptoms, in tandem with high levels of pandemic-related impacts, exhibited increasingly higher resilience levels [b = 0.17, 95% CI [0.02, 0.32], t = 2.26, p = 0.025]. These youths may be better equipped to handle severe stress and adversity thanks to skills and resources they possess and are experienced in using. The implications of these findings for each group of young people are discussed for their usefulness in directing future research and interventions to foster resilience during current and future crises and health pandemics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

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15 pages, 399 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Conspiracy Theories, Trust in Science, and Knowledge during the Third Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Cyprus

by Marilena Mousoulidou, Michailina Siakalli, Andri Christodoulou and Marios Argyrides

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(17), 6710; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20176710 - 4 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2749

Abstract

Conspiracy theories flourish during periods of crisis. One way to counteract the believability of conspiracy theories is trust in science and knowledge about the “perceived threat”, such as the SARS-CoV-2 virus. A total of 363 adults from Cyprus were recruited via convenience and [...] Read more.

Conspiracy theories flourish during periods of crisis. One way to counteract the believability of conspiracy theories is trust in science and knowledge about the “perceived threat”, such as the SARS-CoV-2 virus. A total of 363 adults from Cyprus were recruited via convenience and snowball sampling methods. The data were collected via an internet-based questionnaire that examined participants’ belief in 17 conspiracy theory statements, trust in science and scientists, knowledge about the symptoms and the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, phobic anxiety, hostility, somatization, and personality traits based on the Big Five. The results suggest (a) the overall belief in conspiracy theories in Cyprus is low, even though a notable percentage holds a neutral stance towards these theories; (b) trust in science and knowledge about the symptoms and the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus is negatively related to conspiracy theories, indicating the importance of trusting science and having knowledge as a means to counteract conspiracy theories; (c) young adults, those residing in rural areas, and those with a low education level are more likely to believe in conspiracy theories; (d) there are no significant associations between conspiracy theories and the psychological dimensions of phobic anxiety, hostility, and somatization; (e) there is difficulty in identifying specific traits related to conspiracy ideation. Public health officials could benefit from the findings when communicating information during periods of crisis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

14 pages, 619 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Self-Compassion as a Key Factor of Subjective Happiness and Psychological Well-Being among Greek Adults during COVID-19 Lockdowns

by Kyriaki Sotiropoulou, Christina Patitsa, Venetia Giannakouli, Michail Galanakis, Christiana Koundourou and Georgios Tsitsas

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(15), 6464; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20156464 - 27 Jul 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2900

Abstract

The present study examined the association and complementary effect of self-compassion on the subjective happiness and psychological well-being of adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study was based on a concurrent correlational design to examine relationships between self-compassion, subjective happiness, psychological well-being, resilience, [...] Read more.

The present study examined the association and complementary effect of self-compassion on the subjective happiness and psychological well-being of adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study was based on a concurrent correlational design to examine relationships between self-compassion, subjective happiness, psychological well-being, resilience, and the meaning in life. Data were collected via a battery of questionnaires and analyzed, focusing on the above variables. The sample of this study (N = 526) consisted of Greek professionals in education and university students. The results showed that there is a strong positive relationship between self-compassion and subjective happiness, and between self-compassion and psychological well-being. The findings suggest that an attitude of self-compassion may well influence the development of psychological well-being and increase the subjective happiness of adults during the distressing era of a long-term pandemic. The results also indicated a positive relationship between self-compassion and meaning in life and showed that self-compassion is a prerequisite for resilience, which in turn may serve as a moderator of psychological well-being and subjective happiness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

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13 pages, 629 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Self-Compassion and Well-Being during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Study of Greek College Students

by Eirini Karakasidou, Georgia Raftopoulou, Anna Papadimitriou and Anastassios Stalikas

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(6), 4890; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20064890 - 10 Mar 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2567

Abstract

The present study examined the relationship between self-compassion (SC) and emotional well-being in college students during the COVID-19 pandemic. The theoretical framework for the study was that SC, defined as an understanding and caring response to one’s suffering and limitations, may serve as [...] Read more.

The present study examined the relationship between self-compassion (SC) and emotional well-being in college students during the COVID-19 pandemic. The theoretical framework for the study was that SC, defined as an understanding and caring response to one’s suffering and limitations, may serve as a protective factor against negative mental health outcomes. A sample of college students (N = 101) completed self-report measures of SC, depression, anxiety, stress, life satisfaction and subjective happiness. Data were analysed using regression analysis to examine the prediction of emotional well-being variables by SC and moderation analysis to examine the moderating effect of SC on the relationships between emotional well-being variables. The study’s results confirmed the hypothesis that SC would predict emotional well-being. SC significantly predicted all variables examined, including depression, anxiety, stress, life satisfaction (LS) and subjective happiness (SH). However, SC did not moderate the relationships between these variables. Isolation significantly moderated the relationship between SH and depression among college students. These findings support the idea that SC may serve as a protective factor against negative mental health outcomes and suggest that interventions aimed at increasing SC may improve mental health and overall well-being in college students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Further research is needed to understand these relationships’ mechanisms and the factors that may influence them. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

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17 pages, 2067 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Child Tax Credit, Spending Patterns, and Mental Health: Mediation Analyses of Data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey during COVID-19

by JungHo Park and Sujin Kim

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(5), 4425; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20054425 - 1 Mar 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2116

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between the receipt of COVID-19 child tax credit and adult mental health problems in the United States, and we explored whether and the extent to which a wide range of spending patterns of the credit—15 patterns regarding basic [...] Read more.

This study examined the relationship between the receipt of COVID-19 child tax credit and adult mental health problems in the United States, and we explored whether and the extent to which a wide range of spending patterns of the credit—15 patterns regarding basic necessities, child education, and household expenditure—mediated the relationship. We used COVID-19-specialized data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey, a representative population sample (N = 98,026) of adult respondents (18 and older) who participated between 21 July 2021 and 11 July 2022. By conducting mediation analyses with logistic regression, we found relationships between the credit and lower levels of anxiety (odds ratio [OR] = 0.914; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.879, 0.952). The OR was substantially mediated by spending on basic necessities such as food and housing costs (proportion mediated = 46% and 44%, respectively). The mediating role was relatively moderate in the case of spending on child education and household expenditure. We also found that spending the credit on savings or investments reduces the effect of the child tax credit on anxiety (−40%) while donations or giving to family were not a significant mediator. Findings on depression were consistent with anxiety. The child tax credit–depression relationships were substantially mediated by spending on food and housing (proportion mediated = 53% and 70%). These mediation analyses suggested that different patterns of credit spending are important mediators of the relationship between the receipt of the child tax credit and mental illnesses. Public health approaches to improve adult mental health during and after the COVID-19 pandemic need to consider the notable mediating role of spending patterns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

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14 pages, 393 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mental Health and the COVID-19 Pandemic: Observational Evidence from Malaysia

by Eugenie Sin Sing Tan, Shaun Ashley Fung Xian Chin, Manimeyapan S. Palaniappan Sathapan, Astrid Disimond Dewi, Farahnaz Amini, Normina Ahmad Bustami, Pui Yee Tan, Yu Bin Ho and Chung Keat Tan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(5), 4046; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20054046 - 24 Feb 2023

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4489

Abstract

The interplay of physical, social, and economic factors during the pandemic adversely affected the mental health of healthy people and exacerbated pre-existing mental disorders. This study aimed to determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of the general population [...] Read more.

The interplay of physical, social, and economic factors during the pandemic adversely affected the mental health of healthy people and exacerbated pre-existing mental disorders. This study aimed to determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of the general population in Malaysia. A cross-sectional study involving 1246 participants was conducted. A validated questionnaire consisting of the level of knowledge and practice of precautionary behaviors, the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales (DASS), and the World Health Organization Quality of Life—Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF) was used as an instrument to assess the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results revealed that most participants possessed a high level of knowledge about COVID-19 and practiced wearing face masks daily as a precautionary measure. The average DASS scores were beyond the mild to moderate cut-off point for all three domains. The present study found that prolonged lockdowns had significantly impacted (p < 0.05), the mental health of the general population in Malaysia, reducing quality of life during the pandemic. Employment status, financial instability, and low annual incomes appeared to be risk factors (p < 0.05) contributing to mental distress, while older age played a protective role (p < 0.05). This is the first large-scale study in Malaysia to assess the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the general population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

13 pages, 696 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Social Support on Depressive Symptoms among Postgraduates during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic: A Moderated Mediation Analysis

by Peng Wan, Jinsheng Hu and Qi Li

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(4), 3431; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20043431 - 15 Feb 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2561

Abstract

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic continues to spread worldwide, and its related stressors are causing a high prevalence of mental health problems among graduate students. This has the potential for long-term effects on their mental well-being. However, few large-scale studies have been conducted [...] Read more.

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic continues to spread worldwide, and its related stressors are causing a high prevalence of mental health problems among graduate students. This has the potential for long-term effects on their mental well-being. However, few large-scale studies have been conducted on multiple risk and protective factors. Therefore, we aimed to test the impact of social support on depressive symptoms among graduate students and analyze the mediating role of positive coping and the regulatory role of neuroticism. From 1–8 October 2021, 1812 Chinese graduate students were surveyed online. We used a structural equation model to study the mediating role of positive coping in the relationship between social support and depressive symptoms and used the Hayes PROCESS macro to conduct mediating analysis. The incidence of depressive symptoms was 10.40%. These results showed that positive coping influenced the social support’s influence on depression symptoms to some extent. Moreover, neuroticism regulates the indirect relationship between social support and depressive symptoms through active coping. Further research is needed to assess the impact of various forms of social support on graduate students’ mental health and to develop strategies for maintaining their well-being, such as network mindfulness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

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12 pages, 529 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perspectives on Emergency Remote Teaching during COVID-19 Pandemic in a Sample of Greek Undergraduate Students: The Role of Self-Image

by Kalliope Kounenou, Angelos Giannoulas, Aglaia Stampoltzis, Antonios Kalamatianos, Ntina Kourmousi and Christos Pezirkianidis

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(1), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20010172 - 22 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2192

Abstract

Emergency remote teaching replaced the in-person education in academic institutions as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Students with different personality traits experienced this abrupt change to distance learning in different ways. Thus, this research aims to examine the interplay between several facets [...] Read more.

Emergency remote teaching replaced the in-person education in academic institutions as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Students with different personality traits experienced this abrupt change to distance learning in different ways. Thus, this research aims to examine the interplay between several facets of the students’ experience of emergency remote teaching, such as concerns about, tiredness with, and lack of communication during the first Greek lockdown, and their self-image through their core self-evaluations. The study sample consisted of 341 undergraduate students derived from 13 Greek universities, that completed a self-report questionnaire concerning students’ experiences with distance education, as well as the Core Self-Evaluation Scale measuring self-image components. A cross-section design was used and multiple regression and mediation analyses were applied. The results showed that self-image has an effect on students’ feeling of tiredness with distance learning, while female students demonstrated higher tiredness with distance learning and lack of communication. Moreover, except for gender and disability, all other variables along with self-image significantly predicted perspectives on distance learning. On the other hand, only gender, concerns about, and lack of communication significantly predicted students’ e-attendance of theoretical courses. In this transformative era, it is a challenge for universities to create effective online courses concerning students’ self-image. Finally, limitations and future directions are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

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16 pages, 360 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Predictors of Psychological Distress across Three Time Periods during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Poland

by Agata Chudzicka-Czupała, Soon-Kiat Chiang, Damian Grabowski, Marta Żywiołek-Szeja, Matthew Quek, Bartosz Pudełek, Kayla Teopiz, Roger Ho and Roger S. McIntyre

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(22), 15405; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192215405 - 21 Nov 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2118

Abstract

Background: Since the onset of COVID-19, public health policies and public opinions changed from stringent preventive measures against spread of COVID-19 to policies accommodating life with continued, diminished risk for contracting COVID-19. Poland is a country that demonstrated severe psychological impact and negative [...] Read more.

Background: Since the onset of COVID-19, public health policies and public opinions changed from stringent preventive measures against spread of COVID-19 to policies accommodating life with continued, diminished risk for contracting COVID-19. Poland is a country that demonstrated severe psychological impact and negative mental health. The study aims to examine psychological impact and changes in levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among three cross-sectional samples of Polish people and COVID-19-related factors associated with adverse mental health. Methods: In total, 2324 Polish persons participated in repeated cross-sectional studies across three surveys: Survey 1 (22 to 26 March 2020), Survey 2 (21 October to 3 December 2020), and Survey 3 (3 November to 10 December 2021). Participants completed an online survey, including Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R), Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21), demographics, knowledge, and concerns of COVID-19 and precautionary measures. Results: A significant reduction of IES-R scores was seen across surveys, while DASS-21 scores were significantly higher in Survey 2. There was significant reduction in the frequency of following COVID-19 news, recent COVID-19 testing, and home isolation from Survey 1 to 3. Being emale was significantly associated with higher IES-R and DASS-21 scores in Surveys 1 and 2. Student status was significantly associated with higher DASS-21 across surveys. Chills, myalgia, and fatigue were significantly associated with high IES-R or DASS-21 scores across surveys. Frequency of wearing masks and perception that mask could reduce risk of COVID-19 were significantly associated with higher IES-R and DASS-21 scores. Conclusion: Conclusions: The aforementioned findings indicate a reduction in the level of the measured subjective distress andin the frequency of checking COVID-19 news-related information across three periods during the pandemic in Poland. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

16 pages, 797 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Suicide Risk in Military Personnel during the COVID-19 Health Emergency in a Peruvian Region: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Mario J. Valladares-Garrido, Cinthia Karina Picón-Reátegui, J. Pierre Zila-Velasque, Pamela Grados-Espinoza, Cristian M. Hinostroza-Zarate, Virgilio E. Failoc-Rojas and César Johan Pereira-Victorio

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13502; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013502 - 19 Oct 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2286

Abstract

Military personnel represent a frontline group exposed to multiple stressors. These factors have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, predisposing to the development of suicidal risk (SR). Given the few studies conducted in this population, we evaluated the prevalence of SR and its associated [...] Read more.

Military personnel represent a frontline group exposed to multiple stressors. These factors have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, predisposing to the development of suicidal risk (SR). Given the few studies conducted in this population, we evaluated the prevalence of SR and its associated factors during the health emergency. A cross-sectional survey study was conducted in person among 514 participants in Lambayeque, Peru in 2021. The outcome was SR, and the exposures were depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), PTSD (PCL-C), and other sociodemographic variables. The prevalence of SR was 14.0% (95% CI: 11.12–17.31%) and was significantly higher in people with a family history of mental health (PR: 2.16; 95% CI: 1.13–4.15) and in those with moderate clinical insomnia (PR: 2.21; 95% CI: 1.19–4.12). Military personnel with high resilience had a lower prevalence of SR (PR: 0.54, CI: 0.31–0.95). Anxiety was associated with a higher prevalence of SR (PR: 3.27; 95% CI: 1.76–6.10). Our findings show that at least 1 out of 10 military personnel are at risk of suicide. Special attention should be paid to the associated factors to develop interventions and reverse their consequences. These results may be useful in policy implementation and general statistics of SR in the local and regional context. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

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10 pages, 334 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stressors, Psychological States, and Relationship Quality among East Malaysian Adults with Partners Amid the COVID-19 Lockdown

by Jasmine Adela Mutang, Bee Seok Chua, Kai Yee Hon, Ching Sin Siau, Walton Wider and Rosnah Ismail

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(18), 11258; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191811258 - 7 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1865

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact not only on healthcare systems and economic threats but also on relationships. Due to the massive measures of the Movement Control Order, such as social distancing, strictly limited physical activities, and making adjustments to working [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact not only on healthcare systems and economic threats but also on relationships. Due to the massive measures of the Movement Control Order, such as social distancing, strictly limited physical activities, and making adjustments to working from home—merged with the pandemic’s fear—romantic partners may face challenges that affect the quality of their relationships. The purpose of this study was to (i) identify stressors experienced by participants during the COVID-19 lockdown, (ii) evaluate participants’psychological well-being before and during the lockdown, and (iii) see if participants’ perceived relationship quality differed before and during the lockdown. An online self-report questionnaire was used to recruit 334 adults (58.1 percent female, 41.9 percent male) with partners (married = 304, engaged = 12, and in committed relationships = 17). Participants were asked about stressors they encountered as a result of COVID-19 using an open-ended question. The Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21) were used to assess mental health, and the Perceived Relationship Quality Component (PRQC) Inventory was used to assess relationship quality. According to the findings, the top three common stressors reported by participants were financial problems, restricted movement, and fear of COVID-19 infection. Participants reported significantly higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression during the lockdown than before. The findings also revealed that participants’ relationship quality improved during the lockdown compared to before the lockdown. The current study contributes by providing information on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and the quality of couples’ relationships during the pandemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

10 pages, 303 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Gender and Age Differences and Infectious Disease Symptoms on Psychological Distress in Quarantined Asymptomatic or Mildly Ill COVID-19 Patients in Japan

by Keitaro Murayama, Hideharu Tatebayashi, Takako Kawaguchi, Kousuke Fujita, Kenta Sashikata and Tomohiro Nakao

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(15), 9083; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19159083 - 26 Jul 2022

Viewed by 1465

Abstract

Quarantine imposed due to COVID-19 infection can exacerbate psychological distress, and it is important for a public mental health agency to identify factors that are predictive of high psychological distress in such situation. The aim of this study was to investigate whether gender, [...] Read more.

Quarantine imposed due to COVID-19 infection can exacerbate psychological distress, and it is important for a public mental health agency to identify factors that are predictive of high psychological distress in such situation. The aim of this study was to investigate whether gender, age, and the presence or absence of infectious disease symptoms affected psychological distress among asymptomatic or mildly ill COVID-19 patients who were quarantined. Participants were 436 asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic COVID-19-infected patients who were quarantined in a treatment facility between 1 May 2020 and 30 September 2021. We used Quantification Theory I analysis to investigate the effects of gender, age, and the nature of infectious disease symptoms on psychological distress. The results of the analysis showed that the contribution rate was 0.06. Among gender, age, presence of symptoms, and the nature of symptoms, age had the greatest effect on psychological distress, and being in one’s teens to thirties was considered to exacerbate psychological distress the most. According to the results, the psychological distress of asymptomatic and mildly symptomatic COVID-19 patients isolated was affected by gender, age, and symptomology, especially due to age differences. However, the impact of these items on psychological distress was not considered significant. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

16 pages, 437 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The COVID-19 Pandemic and Adolescents’ Psychological Distress: A Multinational Cross-Sectional Study

by Hang T. M. Nguyen, Hoang V. Nguyen, Btissame Zouini, Meftaha Senhaji, Kourosh Bador, Zsuzsa Szombathyne Meszaros, Dejan Stevanovic and Nóra Kerekes

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(14), 8261; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19148261 - 6 Jul 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3237

Abstract

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has continued for more than two years, and the impact of this pandemic on mental health has become one of the most important research topics in psychiatry and psychology. The aim of the present study was [...] Read more.

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has continued for more than two years, and the impact of this pandemic on mental health has become one of the most important research topics in psychiatry and psychology. The aim of the present study was to assess psychological distress in adolescents across five countries (Sweden, Morocco, Serbia, Vietnam, and the United States of America) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Using nonparametric analyses we examined the impact of COVID-19 on distress, measured by the Brief Symptom Inventory, in a sample of 4670 adolescents. Results: Our results showed that the association between the COVID-19 impact and psychological distress in adolescents’ lives was positive and moderate in Morocco and Serbia, positive and weak in Vietnam and the United States of America, and negative and weak in Sweden. We also found that female adolescents reported higher distress levels than male adolescents. Conclusions: COVID-19 impacted adolescents and their psychological distress differently depending on their residence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

11 pages, 553 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Unique Role of Hope and Optimism in the Relationship between Environmental Quality and Life Satisfaction during COVID-19 Pandemic

by Walton Wider, Nasehah Mohd Taib, Mohd Wafiy Akmal Bin Ahmad Khadri, Foon Yee Yip, Surianti Lajuma and Prasath A/L Punniamoorthy

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(13), 7661; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19137661 - 23 Jun 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3038

Abstract

COVID-19 in Malaysia has significantly affected the higher education system of the country and increased the level of distress among university students. Empirical evidence proposed that environment quality is associated with university students’ life satisfaction during COVID-19. It was found that hope and [...] Read more.

COVID-19 in Malaysia has significantly affected the higher education system of the country and increased the level of distress among university students. Empirical evidence proposed that environment quality is associated with university students’ life satisfaction during COVID-19. It was found that hope and optimism are linked with greater life satisfaction in general. Although past literature has reported the effects of hope and optimism on life satisfaction, there are limited studies examining the underlying mechanism among Malaysian private university students. Therefore, the current study offers the preliminary understanding of the intervening role of hope and optimism on the relationship between environmental quality and life satisfaction among private university students in Malaysia. A total of 133 private university students in Malaysia were recruited through homogenous convenience sampling. Partial least square structure equation modeling (SmartPLS) was used to analyze the mediation models. The results revealed that only hope mediated the relationship between environmental quality and life satisfaction, but not optimism. Hence, it is proposed that mental health providers should focus on providing hope-related interventions to university students in confronting COVID-19 challenges and ultimately improving life satisfaction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

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13 pages, 1820 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Distinguishing the Effect of Time Spent at Home during COVID-19 Pandemic on the Mental Health of Urban and Suburban College Students Using Cell Phone Geolocation

by Pelin Ayranci, Cesar Bandera, NhatHai Phan, Ruoming Jin, Dong Li and Deric Kenne

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(12), 7513; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19127513 - 19 Jun 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2307

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the correlation of depression and anxiety with time spent at home among students at two universities—one urban and the other suburban—during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Geolocation data from the smartphones of 124 participants were collected [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to assess the correlation of depression and anxiety with time spent at home among students at two universities—one urban and the other suburban—during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Geolocation data from the smartphones of 124 participants were collected between February 2021 and May 2021. The level of depression was estimated by the PHQ-9 and PHQ-2 screening tools, and anxiety scores were estimated by the GAD-2 and GAD-7 screening tools. Results: 51% of participants in the PHQ-9 surveys indicated mild to severe depression. Participants spent on average 75% of their time at home during COVID. Time spent at home had a positive correlation with the mental health of urban students but a negative correlation with suburban students. The relation between the time at home with mental health was stronger among female participants than among male participants. Correlations between female depression, anxiety, and time at home were significant. Conclusions: Lockdown and distance learning contributed to the high levels of depression in university students. This research highlights the importance of time spent at home for mental health being during the pandemic and the importance of distinguishing between urban and suburban settings when formulating public health recommendations. Quality of time spent at home versus time spent outside differentiated the mental well-being of students located in different environments. Staying at home may be recommended for students without access to safe outdoor places as it is associated with lower levels of depression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

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10 pages, 393 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hope and Resilience Related to Fear of COVID-19 in Young People

by David J. Javier-Aliaga, Gluder Quispe, Dámaris Quinteros-Zuñiga, Cristian E. Adriano-Rengifo and Michael White

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(9), 5004; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19095004 - 20 Apr 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3243

Abstract

In the face of the psychological crisis of fear caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is relevant to know the positive impact of hope and resilience during this context. The purpose of this study was to determine the correlation between hope and resilience [...] Read more.

In the face of the psychological crisis of fear caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is relevant to know the positive impact of hope and resilience during this context. The purpose of this study was to determine the correlation between hope and resilience with fear of COVID-19 in young people. The design was non-experimental, cross-sectional, and correlational. The sample consisted of 192 young people living in Metropolitan Lima, Peru. We used the Hope-Despair Questionnaire, the Resilience Scale, and the COVID-19 Fear Questionnaire. The results show that there is a significant correlation between hope, resilience, and fear of COVID-19 in young people. On the other hand, a significant difference was found in resilience according to gender. Likewise, it was found that the variables hope and resilience explain 81% (R² adjusted) of the fear of COVID-19 (F test = 21.53; p < 0.01). Hope and resilience are protective factors that have a positive impact when facing the fear of COVID-19. Thus, policies, programs, and public health strategies related to positive mental health should be promoted, with emphasis on hope and resilience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

13 pages, 787 KiB

Open AccessReview

COVID-19, Mental Health, and Chronic Illnesses: A Syndemic Perspective

by Kiran Saqib, Afaf Saqib Qureshi and Zahid Ahmad Butt

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(4), 3262; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20043262 - 13 Feb 2023

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5096

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic is an epidemiological and psychological crisis; what it does to the body is quite well known by now, and more research is underway, but the syndemic impact of COVID-19 and mental health on underlying chronic illnesses among the general [...] Read more.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic is an epidemiological and psychological crisis; what it does to the body is quite well known by now, and more research is underway, but the syndemic impact of COVID-19 and mental health on underlying chronic illnesses among the general population is not completely understood. Methods: We carried out a literature review to identify the potential impact of COVID-19 and related mental health issues on underlying comorbidities that could affect the overall health of the population. Results: Many available studies have highlighted the impact of COVID-19 on mental health only, but how complex their interaction is in patients with comorbidities and COVID-19, the absolute risks, and how they connect with the interrelated risks in the general population, remain unknown. The COVID-19 pandemic can be recognized as a syndemic due to; synergistic interactions among different diseases and other health conditions, increasing overall illness burden, emergence, spread, and interactions between infectious zoonotic diseases leading to new infectious zoonotic diseases; this is together with social and health interactions leading to increased risks in vulnerable populations and exacerbating clustering of multiple diseases. Conclusion: There is a need to develop evidence to support appropriate and effective interventions for the overall improvement of health and psychosocial wellbeing of at-risk populations during this pandemic. The syndemic framework is an important framework that can be used to investigate and examine the potential benefits and impact of codesigning COVID-19/non-communicable diseases (NCDs)/mental health programming services which can tackle these epidemics concurrently. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

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Other

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30 pages, 3382 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Suicide before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis

by Yifei Yan, Jianhua Hou, Qing Li and Nancy Xiaonan Yu

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(4), 3346; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20043346 - 14 Feb 2023

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 5465

Abstract

Synthesizing evidence to examine changes in suicide-related outcomes before and during the pandemic can inform suicide management during the COVID-19 crisis. We searched 13 databases as of December 2022 for studies reporting both the pre- and peri-pandemic prevalence of suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, [...] Read more.

Synthesizing evidence to examine changes in suicide-related outcomes before and during the pandemic can inform suicide management during the COVID-19 crisis. We searched 13 databases as of December 2022 for studies reporting both the pre- and peri-pandemic prevalence of suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, or rate of death by suicide. A random-effects model was used to pool the ratio of peri- and pre-pandemic prevalence of suicidal ideation and attempt (Prevalence Ratio—PR) and rate of death by suicide (Rate Ratio; RR). We identified 51, 55, and 25 samples for suicidal ideation, attempt, and death by suicide. The prevalence of suicidal ideation increased significantly among non-clinical (PR = 1.142; 95% CI: 1.018–1.282; p = 0.024; k = 28) and clinical (PR = 1.134; 95% CI: 1.048–1.227; p = 0.002; k = 23) samples, and pooled estimates differed by population and study design. Suicide attempts were more prevalent during the pandemic among non-clinical (PR = 1.14; 95% CI: 1.053–1.233; p = 0.001; k = 30) and clinical (PR = 1.32; 95% CI: 1.17–1.489; p = 0.000; k = 25) participants. The pooled RR for death by suicide was 0.923 (95% CI: 0.84–1.01; p = 0.092; k = 25), indicating a nonsignificant downward trend. An upward trend of suicidal ideation and suicide attempts was observed during the COVID-19 pandemic, despite suicide rate remaining stable. Our findings suggest that timely prevention and intervention programs are highly needed for non-clinical adult population and clinical patients. Monitoring the real-time and long-run suicide risk as the pandemic evolves is warranted. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic)

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