Journal of Education and Health Promotion

Impact of social media on mental health of the general population during Covid‑19 pandemic: A systematic review

. Uma Phalswal; . Vani Pujari; . Rasmita Sethi; . Ranjana Verma

Volume 13, Issue 1 , January 2023, , Pages 1-12

Abstract

  During the COVID‑19 pandemic, people are using social media more than usual routine because theyrely on online sources to seek health information for themselves and their loved ones. ...  Read More During the COVID‑19 pandemic, people are using social media more than usual routine because theyrely on online sources to seek health information for themselves and their loved ones. The spread ofinaccurate and misleading information via social media has a number of detrimental psychologicaleffects on members of society. The aim of this systematic review was to describe the impact of socialmedia on the mental health of the general population. An extensive systematic search was done till thelast month of 2021 for collecting the evidence using the PRISMA technique. The search was mainlyfocused on the article leading with keywords and search engines used during the course of the studywere Pubmed, Semantic Scholar, Mendeley, and Science direct. Articles for this study were selectedbased on the predetermined eligibility criteria and performed quality assessment by using the NHLBIquality assessment tool. Most of the studies included in this review are found fair (score between9 and 12) quality. Out of 866 publications, 533 articles were included in the initial screening, afterduplication removal 46 full‑text articles were assessed for eligibility and 14 studies were selected forsystematic review. In most of the studies, maximum participants used social media as a primary sourceof information. Relatively high rates of symptoms of depression (14.14% to 48.3%), anxiety (7.4% to47.82%), and prevalence of stress increased to 37.67% are reported after exposure to social mediafor coverage of COVID‑19 news in the general population. Risk factors of psychological distress areassociated with female gender, younger age group, marital status, staying alone, and duration ofexposure to mass media. Increased exposure to COVID‑19 information through mass/social mediais associated with highly significant levels of psychological health issues; mitigating the hazardouseffect of social media exposure during the COVID‑19 pandemic on the psychological health of thegeneral population is an international public health priority.

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The age of doom scrolling – Social media’s attractive addiction

. Rajeshwari S.; . S. Meenakshi

Volume 13, Issue 1 , January 2023, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Human survival requires the ability to communicate. Today’s students’ use ofsocial media has opened up a slew of new possibilities; nevertheless, it is hard ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Human survival requires the ability to communicate. Today’s students’ use ofsocial media has opened up a slew of new possibilities; nevertheless, it is hard to say how manymore may emerge in the future. As the years have gone by, the use of social networking sites hasgrown in popularity among teenagers. This research investigates both the ways in which socialmedia draws in users and the ways in which it hooks users by revealing the gimmicky worlds thatthey inhabit. Depending more on social media than on oneself causes a tremendous problem. It isquite challenging to separate human beings from their many electronic devices in today’s world. Theuse of devices gradually began to take over the world.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Qualitative research approaches were used in this research. Thequalitative study’s findings were gathered from a variety of secondary sources, including mediaarticles, academic journal articles, and past theses. Throughout the course of this study, a discourseanalysis method was employed, and several case studies were gathered from news articles andjournals.RESULTS: According to the results of the research, addiction to the Internet has been defined asa decrease in an individual’s ability to exercise self‑control within the context of the social‑cognitiveframework. The research is based on true events that occurred in and around India. This researcharticle focuses on the various positive and negative effects that social media may have on educationand students. It is critical to figure out how to tackle this issue.CONCLUSION: One effective strategy is to restrict their access to social media. The bulk of thedisadvantages may be mitigated by reducing the amount of time spent on social media sites. Keepingtrack of their academic progress and dealing with any problems early on can help them avoid thenegative effects of social media on their education.

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Pregnant women’s experiences of well‑being in high‑risk pregnancy: A qualitative study

. Kobra Mirzakhani; . Abbas Ebadi; . Farhad Faridhosseini; . Talat Khadivzadeh

Volume 13, Issue 1 , January 2023, , Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Physical changes in high‑risk pregnancy (HRP) can lead to changes in mood andsocial relationships and negative effects on women’s well‑being. Individuals in different ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Physical changes in high‑risk pregnancy (HRP) can lead to changes in mood andsocial relationships and negative effects on women’s well‑being. Individuals in different socioculturalcontexts have different perceptions of well‑being. Yet, there is limited information about perceptions ofwell‑being in HRP. This study aimed to explore the Iranian women’s experiences of well‑being in HRP.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This qualitative study was conducted in 2019–2020 through directedcontent analysis based on the conceptual framework of well‑being in HRP. Participants were 26women with HRP purposively recruited from public and private healthcare settings in Mashhad, Iran.Face‑to‑face semistructured interviews were held for data collection until data saturation. Data wereanalyzed through directed content analysis proposed by Elo and kyngäs (2008) and were managedusing the MAXQDA (v. 10) program.RESULTS: Well‑being in HRP had seven attributes in the five main dimensions of physical,mental‑emotional, social, marital, and spiritual well‑being. The seven attributes of well‑being in HRPwere controlled physical conditions, controlled mood, emotions, and affections, perceived threat,self‑efficacy, and competence for multiple role performance, maintained social relationships, meaningseeking and relationship with the Creator, and positive marital relationships.CONCLUSION: The present study provide an in‑depth understanding about well‑being in the Iranianwomen with HRP. It is a complex and multidimensional concept with physical, mental‑emotional,social, marital, and spiritual dimensions. Comprehensive multicomponent interventions are needed topromote well‑being among women with HRP and designed the guidelines to provide woman‑centeredcare.

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Impact of COVID‑19 on mental health of infertile couple: A rapid systematic review

. Morvarid Irani; . Maryam Hassanzadeh Bashtian; . Narges Soltani; . Fatemeh Khabiri

Volume 12, Issue 11 , December 2022, , Pages 1-9

Abstract

  Infertile couples experience a lot of psychological stress due to the inability to achieve the desiredsocial role. Couples who decide to continue assisted reproductive therapy (ART) ...  Read More Infertile couples experience a lot of psychological stress due to the inability to achieve the desiredsocial role. Couples who decide to continue assisted reproductive therapy (ART) during the epidemicalso experience the psychological impact of the COVID-19 epidemic, which affects their daily livesdue to social isolation, quarantine, travel restrictions, and cancellation of treatment. Therefore, thepurpose of this study was to assess the mental health of infertile couple pausing or delaying theirtreatment due to the COVID-19 pandemic. PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, Embase, Web of Science,ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, Research Gate, and the World Health Organization databases andwebsites were systematically searched for original studies concerning abortion in the era of COVID-19pandemic published by August 15, 2021. We used the following keywords: “COVID-19 Coronavirus, infertility, reproductive technique, fertilization, assisted reproduction, pregnant termination,psychological, in vitro mental status, depressive symptoms, and anxiety.” In sum, after automaticallyand manually search and excluding duplicates, 269 articles were found. In final, after screening, 18articles were selected. Most patients experienced negative emotions during the COVID-19 epidemic.When reproductive services were re-established, participants showed higher levels of anxiety andlower quality of life than before quarantine. Women who thought pregnancy was more importantthan getting COVID-19 had higher levels of anxiety than women who thought otherwise (P < 0.05).The COVID-19 pandemic has negative impacts on the mental health and quality of life of patientsseeking fertility services and coping with it requires timely and appropriate psychological intervention,accurate information, and social and organizational support.

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Cognitive behavioral therapy as treatment intervention for aggressive behaviors in clients with intellectual disabilities and concomitant mental health conditions

. Matthew A. Orim; . Samuel O. Orim; . Philip O. Adeleke; . Essien E. Essien; . James E. Olayi; . Cecilia K. Essien; . Oluseyi A. Dada; . James A. Ewa; . Vitalis U. Eke; . Innocent U. Igba; . Raymond O. Ogar; . Valentine J. Owan

Volume 12, Issue 11 , December 2022, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Few researchers have examined the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapyin treating aggressive behaviors among individuals with dual diagnosis (intellectual disability ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Few researchers have examined the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapyin treating aggressive behaviors among individuals with dual diagnosis (intellectual disability andmental health conditions) due to the relatively recent interest in the field of psychopathology inintellectual disability. This study investigated the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy intreating aggressive behaviors among clients with dual diagnoses in a community rehabilitationcenter, Ibadan, Oyo state, and the moderating effects of parenting style and socioeconomic statusin the associations.MATERIALS AND METHOD: A 2 × 2 × 2 pre‑test post‑test factorial design was used. Parenting styleand socioeconomic status at two levels each moderated the associations. A sample of 22 participantspurposively selected was exposed to treatment using cognitive behavioral therapy, while the otherfive were exposed to placebo treatment all for 8 weeks. Data collected were analyzed using LineChart and Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA).RESULTS: Improvements were found in the post‑treatment scores obtained on the Aggressive Scalefor Youths. A reduction in the Aggressive Incidents chart was recorded for each participant in thetreatment group when compared with the control group, using a line chart and Analysis of Covariance(ANCOVA). Evidence also demonstrated that parenting style (authoritarian and authoritative), F (1,14)= 0.75, P <.05, η2 =0.05), and socioeconomic status (high and low), F (1,14) = 0.01, P =0.020, η2=.00), moderated the associations.CONCLUSION: Cognitive behavioral therapy is seen as a treatment intervention for individuals withintellectual disability co‑existing with mental health manifesting aggressive behaviors in the communityor other settings. This should be used to improve the client’s quality of life under these conditions.

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COVID‑19 mental health challenges: A scoping review

. Sanjana Agrawal; . Sonal Dayama; . Abhiruchi Galhotra

Volume 12, Issue 10 , November 2022, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  The COVID‑19 pandemic has disordered the lives of millions in an unprecedented way. A state ofmental health crisis has emerged across the globe. The lifestyle and well‑being of ...  Read More The COVID‑19 pandemic has disordered the lives of millions in an unprecedented way. A state ofmental health crisis has emerged across the globe. The lifestyle and well‑being of the individual andsocial integrity have been adversely affected. One‑third of US citizens and one in five Indian citizenssuffer from depression due to this pandemic. This scoping review aimed to estimate the mental healthchallenges and their possible solutions in the recent two years (2020–2021). Our search strategyused search engines such as Medline, Google Scholar and PubMed. The search strategy used theMeSH keywords “Mental Health AND Covid‑19”. The findings emerged in the following key points:anxiety and depression, social isolation and quarantine, and vulnerable or high‑risk groups. Outof 216 articles screened, 20 were found eligible to meet the inclusion criteria. Most of the studiesfocused on psychological anxiety, stress and mental disorder during the pandemic. Psychosocialassessment and monitoring in the context of COVID‑19 should include inquiries about stressorsrelated to COVID‑19, like exposure to infected sources, infected family members, loss of loved ones,physical distance; secondary adverse events like economic loss, psychosocial effects like depression,anxiety, psychosomatic preoccupations, insomnia, increased substance use, domestic violence; andindicators of vulnerability like pre‑existing physical or psychological conditions.

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The feasibility study of Internet‑assisted play therapy to resolve psychological disorders in primary healthcare settings: A qualitative study

. Sevil Momeni Shabani; . Fatemeh Darabi; . Nazila Nejaddadgar; . Ahad Azimi; . Masoud Shabani

Volume 12, Issue 9 , October 2022, , Pages 1-4

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Play therapy is an intelligent tool in cognitive–behavioral therapies. In today’s world,the Internet and technology play a key role in all aspects of people’s ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Play therapy is an intelligent tool in cognitive–behavioral therapies. In today’s world,the Internet and technology play a key role in all aspects of people’s life including mental health.The present study explores the feasibility of using Internet‑assisted play therapy to solve children’spsychological issues in primary healthcare systems.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present qualitative research was conducted by the contentanalysis approach on 20 experts working in the healthcare centers, who were selected purposefully.The sample was saturated with these 20 participants. Data were collected through semi‑structuredinterviews and were coded manually. Then, they were analyzed in the Atlas.ti software package.RESULTS: The results revealed 15 themes and 10 sub‑themes. The themes included (1) safety, (2)efficiency, (3) client‑orientedness, (4) organizational growth, (5) time, (6) effectiveness, (7)justice‑orientedness, (8) access, (9) feedback, (10) analysis, (11) children’s computer game room, (12)reward, (13) group game, and (14) capability to be integrated into other electronic programs.CONCLUSION: It seems that Internet‑based play therapy is plausible to be used as a service inprimary healthcare to tackle the psychological problems of children in the target population if thechallenges related to the exploratory themes are taken care of.

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Comparison of the effect of two educational methods based on mindfulness and cognitive emotion strategies on psychological well‑being and anxiety of eighth‑semester midwifery students before the final clinical trial

. Mahnaz Noroozi; . Zahra Mohebbi‑Dehnavi

Volume 12, Issue 8 , September 2022, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Midwifery services help maintain and improve the health of the community. However,a comprehensive examination reduces students’ psychological well‑being by creating ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Midwifery services help maintain and improve the health of the community. However,a comprehensive examination reduces students’ psychological well‑being by creating anxiety. For thispurpose, the present study was conducted to determine and compare the effect of two educationalmethods based on mindfulness and cognitive emotion strategies on psychological well‑being andanxiety of eighth‑semester midwifery students before the final clinical trial.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was a quasi‑experimental three‑group study with availablesampling method that was performed on 30 eighth‑semester midwifery students of the School ofNursing and Midwifery of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in 2020–2021. Data collection toolswere psychological well‑being and Test Anxiety Questionnaire. Two intervention groups were trainedfor eight sessions. The control group did not receive any training program. The data collected bySPSS version 22 software were analyzed by analytical statistical tests of ANOVA and least significantdifference post hoc test.RESULTS: The results showed that there was a statistically significant difference between the threegroups in terms of components of test anxiety and psychological well‑being. Furthermore, emotionregulation training and mindfulness‑based training reduced test anxiety and increased students’psychological well‑being before the comprehensive test (P = 0.001).CONCLUSION: It is recommended that educational programs be considered before the comprehensiveexamination to promote the mental health and success of these students.

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Health education and global health: Practices, applications, and future research

. Daliya S. Rizvi

Volume 12, Issue 7 , August 2022, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  Health education is a crucial consideration in the healthcare system and has the potential to improveglobal health. Recently, researchers have expressed interest in streamlining health ...  Read More Health education is a crucial consideration in the healthcare system and has the potential to improveglobal health. Recently, researchers have expressed interest in streamlining health education, utilizingdigital tools and flexible curriculums to make it more accessible, and expanding beyond disease andsubstance abuse prevention. They have also expressed interest in promoting global health throughhealth and safety promotion programs. Amidst the COVID‑19 pandemic, climate change, the refugeecrisis, and overpopulation, healthcare crises are erupting all over the world. A lack of health educationhas and will continue to have a profound impact on community healthcare indicators, particularly inlow‑income nations. Current priorities within the health education sector include digitization, equity,and infectious disease prevention. Studies and data from university journals and other academicdatabases were analyzed in a literature review. Health education programs have a significant positiveimpact on attitudes and behaviors regarding global health. Improving upon these programs by digitizingthem and expanding upon the scope of health education will help ensure that such interventions andprograms make a significant difference.

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Psychological implications of Covid‑19 in healthcare workers

. Rashi Garg; . Neelam Gupta; . Shraddha Puri; . Naveen Kakkar

Volume 12, Issue 7 , August 2022, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The Covid‑19 outbreak has led to an unprecedented burden on the healthcareinfrastructure. High morbidity and mortality rates have resulted in a state of stress and distress ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The Covid‑19 outbreak has led to an unprecedented burden on the healthcareinfrastructure. High morbidity and mortality rates have resulted in a state of stress and distress amongthe general population which has also impacted health professionals.AIMS: This study was conducted to identify mental health disturbances among health professionalsduring the Covid‑19 pandemic.MATERIALS AND METHODS: It was a cross‑sectional study, conducted in a Medical Collegein Himachal Pradesh, India. A self‑administered anonymized questionnaire was administered tothe healthcare workers. Mental health status was assessed using Patient Health QuestionnaireAnxiety‑Depression Scale (PHQ‑ADS). In addition, a 15‑item questionnaire was prepared to identifythe probable causes of stress in HCWs during the Covid‑19 Pandemic. A statistical analysis usedt‑test was used to find the significance of the correlation between the PHQ‑ADS score and theagreement score of different factors.RESULTS: The response rate for the questionnaire was 27%. Anxiety and depression were seen in29% of participants, ranging from mild (18.3%), moderate (4.7%), and severe (5.9%). Among females43.7% of the participants and among males, 13.1% had anxiety and depression. High PHQ‑ADSscores were seen in nursing staff (70%) and postgraduate students (30%), who were in the thirddecade of life. Most (81.7%) of the HCWs were concerned about transmitting the disease to theirnear ones. Fear of coming to the hospital and dealing with patients.CONCLUSION: Even sub‑threshold syndromes among HCWs need to be identified before theyevolve into overt diseases. The psychological needs of healthcare workers should be prioritized asthey are key players in the fight against Covid‑19.

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Factors affecting relationship issues among clients attending youth mental health promotion services in India

. Pradeep Banandur; . Kalpana Gopalan; . Shikha G. Pai; . Mutharaju Arelingaiah; . R. Sathya Velu; . Lavanya Garady; . Jyoti M. Koujageri; . Vani Naik; . Sateesh L. Sajjanar; . M. S. Ramesh; . K. Srinivas; . Gururaj Gopalkrishna

Volume 12, Issue 4 , April 2022, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: India today is home for the largest youth population in the world. Youth is a formative phase transitioning from childhood to adulthood. Relationship is fundamental ...  Read More BACKGROUND: India today is home for the largest youth population in the world. Youth is a formative phase transitioning from childhood to adulthood. Relationship is fundamental for a healthy and satisfactory life. Relationships assume importance and maturity during adolescence and youth. Relationships and mental health have a bidirectional effect. The effect of relationships on mental health is stronger than vice versa.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two‑year case record analysis of 8595 beneficiaries aged 15–35 years attending youth guidance centers (Yuva Spandana Kendras) in Karnataka, India, was undertaken to understand factors affecting relationship issues among them. Multivariate logistic regression was performed with any beneficiary having a relationship issue as outcome.RESULTS: Being a student (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.49; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.18–1.89), occupation (AORbusiness/salaried = 3.04; 95% CI = 2.10–4.40 and AORothers = 1.72; 95% CI = 1.22–2.44), marital status (AORmarried = 1.42; 95% CI = 1.06–1.90 and AORothers = 3.44; 95% CI = 1.45–8.15), having health and lifestyle issues (AOR = 3.61; 95% CI = 3.05–4.27), personality issues (AOR = 2.88; 95% CI = 2.43–3.41), safety issues (AOR = 6.28; 95% CI = 5.01–7.87), gender, sex, and sexuality issues (AOR = 3.10; 95% CI = 1.93–4.98), suicidality (AOR = 1.82; 95% CI = 1.17–2.85), alcohol use (AOR = 5.43; 95% CI = 3.92–7.41), and different emotions experienced (AOR ranging from 0.37 to 3.50), had significant association with relationship issues.CONCLUSION: Investing in health promotion interventions focusing on these precursors of relationship issues among youth seems strategic. Our findings have implications for other states in India and other low‑middle‑income countries like India.

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Community perception of accessibility and barriers to utilizing mental health services

. Govindappa Lakshmana; . Vasunaik Sangeetha; . Vijyendra Pandey

Volume 12, Issue 2 , February 2022, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The Government of India and State Government authorities are trying their best to provide adequate mental health services through various mental health policies and ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The Government of India and State Government authorities are trying their best to provide adequate mental health services through various mental health policies and programs. To reduce the burden in psychiatric hospitals, Government has decentralized mental health services. Although Government has provided mental health services, the utilization has always been low due to many reasons. In the present study, an attempt was made to assess the accessibility and the barriers to utilizing mental health services with various community stakeholders.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a qualitative study wherein data was collected from youth, women, geriatric groups, community key leaders, and Anganwadi workers. The primary data were collected through focused group discussions and interview methods. The collected data were analyzed using thematic coding.RESULTS: A total of twenty‑five factors have been identified in the study, which were categorized under eight themes. (a) Lack of awareness and misinformation on mental health, illness, and available services, (b) Perceived causes for mental illness, (c) Reasons for not approaching health professionals, (d) Treatment adherence‑related issues, (e) No multidisciplinary team in private hospitals and lack of involvement in government sector (f) Manpower issues, (g) Quality of service issues and building confidence among community people, and (h) Belief system and stigma.CONCLUSIONS: Inadequate mental health services, lack of awareness of mental health, and illness are still persist. The District Mental Health Program and other service providers need to reach communities, especially in remote areas. Periodical evaluation should be carried out to improve the utilization of mental health services.

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Effect of assertiveness program on the drug use tendency, mental health, and quality of life in clinical students of Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences

. Forozan Ganji; . Farzad Khani; . Zahra Karimi; . Leili Rabiei

Volume 12, Issue 2 , February 2022, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Students on campus are exposed to drug abuse and mental health disorders due to various challenges and motivating factors. This issue requires attention to interventions ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Students on campus are exposed to drug abuse and mental health disorders due to various challenges and motivating factors. This issue requires attention to interventions based on coping skills training. The present study was conducted with the aim to investigate the effect of an assertiveness program on the drug use tendency, mental health, and quality of life in clinical students of Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences in 2020.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is a quasi‑experimental study. Seventy clinical students (nursing, midwifery, and intern students) attending Ayatollah Kashani and Hajar teaching hospitals of Shahrekord were included into the study and randomly assigned into an intervention group and a control group. The assertiveness training program was implemented for eight 1‑h sessions (one session per week for 2 months) for the intervention group, while the control group received no programs. Both study groups completed drug tendency questionnaire, depression, anxiety and stress scale, and quality of life questionnaire in pretest, posttest, and 2‑month follow‑up. The data were analyzed using SPSS software (v22), analysis of variance repeated measures, and t‑test.RESULTS: The mean scores of drug use tendency (P = 0.26), stress (P = 0.31), anxiety (P = 0.29), depression (P = 0.43), and quality of life (P = 0.33) showed no statistically significant differencebetween the intervention and control groups in the pretest, but the scores of the drug use tendency, stress, anxiety, and depression were statistically lower and the score of quality of life was statistically higher than that of the control group in the posttest and 2‑month follow‑up (P < 0.05).CONCLUSION: The findings of the study showed that assertiveness skill training as a preventiveprogram can reduce the students’ tendency to addiction and improve their mental health and quality of life. Considering the effectiveness of the program, planners and policymakers can use it to plan for reducing the youth tendency to drugs.

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The effect of training program of health promotion behaviors on geriatric general health components

. Gholamreza Kheirabadi; . Mehrnoosh Shirani; . Mahrokh Keshvari; . Gholamreza Sharifirad; . Mahboobe Bahrami

Volume 11, Issue 11 , December 2021, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Increasing in elderly’s population and their individual and social problems especiallymental health problem in this group need special attention. The aim of this study ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Increasing in elderly’s population and their individual and social problems especiallymental health problem in this group need special attention. The aim of this study was evaluationof health promotion behaviors training program efficacy on general health components in elderliesreferring to health centers in Isfahan city.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was a tri phasic field trial in 2014 in which 72 elderliesallocated randomly in two case and control groups. Case group participated in 9 training sessions onstress management and interpersonal relationships and the control group participated in 2 sessionswith a neutral discussion content. Data collection tools were demographic information questionnaireand general health questionnaire 28. Pretest, posttest, and 2‑month follow‑up were performed intwo groups. Data were analyzed by t‑test, analysis of variance with repeated measurement, leastsignificant difference post hoc test, and SPSS 20 software.RESULTS: Findings of this study showed that the average of general health score in case andcontrol groups had not significant difference before the intervention (P > 0.05). However, the meandifference of general health score after intervention and 2‑month follow‑up was statistically significantin two groups (P < 0.001).CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that interpersonal relationship and stress management trainingprogram are effective on promotion of mental health in elderlies. Hence, the findings of this studycan be used in the field of treatment and care of the elderly by other health‑care categories.

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Emotional distress and psychiatric drug use among students in an Italian medical school: Assessing the role of gender and year of study

. Sara Carletto; . Marco Miniotti; . Alberto Persico; . Paolo Leombruni

Volume 11, Issue 11 , December 2021, , Pages 1-8

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Previous studies have reported that medical students show high rates of depression,anxiety, and stress levels, but mixed findings were found regarding possible differences ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Previous studies have reported that medical students show high rates of depression,anxiety, and stress levels, but mixed findings were found regarding possible differences betweengender and different years of medical training. This study evaluated depression, anxiety, and stresslevels and psychiatric drug use in students in an Italian medical school and investigated the differencesbetween gender and year of study.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross‑sectional study included 694 medical students in their1st (n = 286), 4th (n = 209), and 6th (n = 199) year of study. The questionnaire included demographicinformation, self‑report questionnaires regarding depression, anxiety, and stress, and questionsabout psychiatric drug use. Data analysis was performed using SPSS/Ver 22 through descriptive andanalytic statistics, including Mann–Whitney U‑test, Fisher’s exact test, and GLM two‑way ANOVA.RESULTS: Depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms were reported by 365 (52.6%), 428 (61.7%),and 545 (78.5%) medical students, respectively. Female students in their 4th year of study reportedhigher depression levels than males of the same year (P = 0.004), whereas levels of anxiety werehigher in 6th‑year female students compared with those in their 1st and 4th years (P = 0.001; P = 0.025).Stress levels were consistently higher in females than in males for all 3 years (1st year: P = 0.041;4th year: P < 0.001; 6th year: P = 0.004). No gender differences were found in the use of psychiatricand stimulant drugs.CONCLUSION: This study provides preliminary evidence suggesting the importance of planninginterventions aimed at reducing emotional distress among medical students that should be targetedon gender and year of the study.

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Mental health of the people of northern Iran during the quarantine time of 2020 following the coronavirus epidemic

. Fereshteh Araghian Mojarad; . Mohammad Ali Heidari Gorji; . Hamid Salehiniya; . Tahereh Yaghoubi

Volume 11, Issue 9 , October 2021, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Coronavirus (COVID‑19) is an infectious respiratory disease. Quarantine is oftenaccompanied by unpleasant experiences for those who go through it. The aim of this study ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Coronavirus (COVID‑19) is an infectious respiratory disease. Quarantine is oftenaccompanied by unpleasant experiences for those who go through it. The aim of this study was todetermine the mental health status of people during quarantine in northern Iran.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross‑sectional study was conducted during the quarantineperiod of coronavirus. Conventional sampling was done from March 6 to April 6. Six hundred andforty‑two individuals were included. Inclusion criteria were living in Sari and being home quarantinedduring the corona outbreak. Exclusion criteria included hospitalization history due to corona andunwillingness to participate in the study. In this study, the General Health Questionnaire‑28 was usedonline to collect the required data. To analyze the data, descriptive and inferential statistics (t‑test,analysis of variance, and correlation coefficient) were used.RESULTS: In this study, individuals were included in the investigation with a mean age of38.74 ± 11.89 (ranged from 15 to 73). Most of the participants were female (72.85%) andmarried (71.34%). According to the results, 21.5% of the participants had poor mental health.Mean mental health scores have a statistically significant relationship with gender, marital status,education, occupation, quarantine period, patients with corona, and exposure to a patient withcorona (P ≤ 0.05). Furthermore, a negative correlation coefficient was observed between age andmental health score (correlation coefficient = −0.31, significance >0.001).CONCLUSION: The average score of mental health has a significant relationship with gender, maritalstatus, education, occupation, quarantine period, corona, and exposure to a patient with corona.Given the high prevalence of mental disorders in people during the COVID‑19 epidemic, educatingpeople and planning to reduce the psychological effects of the epidemic can be helpful.

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The effect of COVID‑19 epidemic on the mental health of nurses’ family members

. Soheila Banitalebi; . Kobra Mohammadi; . Zhila Marjanian; . Leili Rabiei; . Reza Masoudi

Volume 11, Issue 9 , October 2021, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The COVID‑19 epidemic is a global health crisis that, in addition to physical health,has affected the mental health of all individuals, especially health‑care workers, ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The COVID‑19 epidemic is a global health crisis that, in addition to physical health,has affected the mental health of all individuals, especially health‑care workers, including nursesand family members. In this regard, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of COVID‑19epidemic on mental health of nurses’ family members.MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present descriptive‑analytic and cross‑sectional study wasconducted in 2020 year on family members of nurses working in Hajar Hospital for admission andhospitalization of patients with COVID‑19, after obtaining the necessary permits and coordination. Toprevent the spread of COVID‑19 through respiratory or contact droplets, a blog was designed to collectdata using software. Participation in this study was voluntary. Data collection tools included consent,demographic questionnaire, and mental health questionnaire (Patient Health Questionnaire‑9). Datawere analyzed by SPSS version 22.RESULTS: Findings of this study showed that out of 208 family members of nurses participatingin this study, 96 were male and 112 were female and their mean age was 35.78 years, and 55.3%of the participants had university education. Their mean mental health score was 12.91 ± 3.75, sothat 22.6% of people had mild depression, 71.4% of people had moderate depression, and 1.8%of people had severe depression. Independent t‑test showed that there is a statistically significantrelationship between mental health and gender and marital status (P < 0.001). Furthermore, one‑wayanalysis of variance test showed that there is a significant relationship between mental health andage (P < 0.001); this test also showed that there is no relationship between education and mentalhealth (P = 0.75).CONCLUSION: The results indicate that the mental health of nurses’ family members is affectedby the challenges of COVID‑19 epidemic time, so that many of them suffer from some degree ofdepression. Therefore, supporting this population requires urgent action.

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Psychological impact of COVID‑19 on medical interns – Findings from a nationwide survey

. Chandrashekar B. Huded; . Smitha Lamiya Rasquinha; . Pradyumna Rao

Volume 11, Issue 8 , September 2021, , Pages 1-13

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The COVID‑19 pandemic has negatively impacted the mental health of health‑careworkers worldwide. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of psychological distress ...  Read More BACKGROUND: The COVID‑19 pandemic has negatively impacted the mental health of health‑careworkers worldwide. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of psychological distress in medicalinterns during the pandemic and examine the factors influencing it.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional online survey was conducted using snowballsampling among 764 medical interns across India, who were evaluated using the KesslerPsychological Distress Scale, Fear of COVID‑19 Scale, and semi‑structured questionnaires. Univariateanalysis was done using Chi‑square test, unpaired t‑test, and ANOVA, while multivariate analysiswas conducted using binary logistic regression.RESULTS: 57.5% of the interns reported psychological distress, with 39.8% having moderate‑to‑severedistress. Past consultation with a mental health professional (odds ratio [OR]: 2.15; 95% confidenceinterval [CI]: 1.42–3.26) and perceived lack of support from friends (OR: 2.33; 95% CI: 1.33–3.99)and faculty (OR: 2.15; 95% CI: 1.41–3.28) were the most significant predictors of distress. Fearof COVID‑19 was higher in interns who were female, were medically ill, were dissatisfied with thepandemic preparedness at the hospital, and perceived the faculty to be less approachable andsupportive. Majority of the interns felt that the pandemic had hampered their learning and wereworried about an extension to their internship and their performance in the postgraduate entranceexaminations.CONCLUSIONS: Psychological distress was highly prevalent among interns, with several workplacesand personal factors affecting the distress levels. Most interns perceived a negative impact of thepandemic on their learning and career. Addressing these issues could help alleviate the distressand bolster the mental health of interns.

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Association between common stressful life events and coping strategies in adults

. Yousef Veisani; . Zahra Jalilian; . Yasaman Zahra Sadeghifard; . Fathola Mohamadian

Volume 11, Issue 7 , August 2021, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: As shown in previous persons that used the effective coping strategies are moreaware to recent stressful life events in their live, this study conducted to investigate the ...  Read More BACKGROUND: As shown in previous persons that used the effective coping strategies are moreaware to recent stressful life events in their live, this study conducted to investigate the main stressfullife events and common coping styles in adult’s population.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross‑sectional study was conducted in 2018. In overall, 345persons aged 18 years and more by stratified cluster sampling were enrolled in the study. The validquestionnaires including the coping inventory for stressful situations‑21, the Holmes‑Rahe StressInventory, and 28‑item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ‑28) were used to interview. The analysisof variance and t‑student (t‑test) was used to determine the association between the two variables.The statistical significance level was considered <0.05.RESULTS: The top three importance events among 43 stressful items in our study were changein financial state, gain of a new family member, and death of close family member. We found thattask‑oriented coping (P < 0.001) and avoidance‑oriented coping (P = 0.021) significantly more usedin males compered to females. According to Holmes‑Rahe life stress inventory instructions only 4.7%of participants are prone to getting ill in next 2 years.CONCLUSION: The results of this study showed a positive relationship between coping styles andlower risk of mental health problems and stressful life events. Hence, activities and training programsaiming to enhance personal approach coping skills is important to reduce of side effects of stressfullife events especially those recently exposed to negative life events and stresses.

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Mental health state in medical students during COVID-19 pandemic

. Dian Natalia; . Rizma Adlia Syakurah

Volume 11, Issue 5 , June 2021, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Before the COVID-19 pandemic, medical students had reported experiencing highrates of distress, burnout, anxiety, and depression. The psychological impact of the COVID-19 ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Before the COVID-19 pandemic, medical students had reported experiencing highrates of distress, burnout, anxiety, and depression. The psychological impact of the COVID-19 in thegeneral population suggested that the mental health impact was increased anxiety, depression, andstress. There were no exceptions if medical students also experience the same psychological impact.The aimed to this study is analyze the mental and emotional effects of the COVID-19 pandemicamong medical students.MATERIALS AND METHODS: An observational analytic study was used with a cross-sectionalapproach. Data were obtained with questionnaires distributed through social media platforms fromJuly 14, 2020, to July 21, 2020. This study using the Fear of COVID-19 (FCV-19) Scale and theDepression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 to assess FCV-19, anxiety, stress, and depression.statistical analysis used IBM SPSS Statistics 24 was used to analyze the two-tailed Chi-square test,the Mann–Whitney test, and the Kruskal–Wallis test, which were used with statistical significanceas P < 0.05 for all tests.RESULTS: Out of 1027 samples, 44.6% had stressed, 47.8% had anxiety, and 18.6% had depression.The gender (P = 0.000), educational stage (P = 0.000), and the comorbidity factor (P = 0.001 forstress and anxiety, P = 0.036 for depression, and P = 0.000 for FCV-19) had a significant associationwith stress, anxiety, depression, and FCV-19 in medical students. The hometown that showed zonerisk of infection only showed significant differences in FCV-19 (P = 0.026).CONCLUSIONS: Protection and psychological support for a medical student is extremely highimportance given that COVID-19 is now a well-established pandemic and there will be otherpandemics in the future.

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Social media exposure and mental health problems during coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic in Indonesia

. Nata Pratama Hardjo Lugito; . Vika Damay; . Henny Chyntya; . Natasya Sugianto

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, , Pages 1-9

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Several preventive measures were used by governments around the world tosuppress the transmission of SARS‑CoV‑2, including quarantine. During quarantine more peopleare ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Several preventive measures were used by governments around the world tosuppress the transmission of SARS‑CoV‑2, including quarantine. During quarantine more peopleare at risk of developing mental health problems as social media exposure was increasing.OBJECTIVES: The objective is to investigate the impact of social media exposure during coronavirusdisease 2019 (COVID‑19) pandemic on depression, anxiety, and stress.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional study was conducted between April and May 2020during the large scale social restriction in Indonesia using online questionnaire Indonesian citizensover 18 years of age were invited to take part by answering online questionnaire through Googleforms (http://bit.ly/duniamayaCOVID). Data gathered were demographic data, depression, anxiety,and stress that were assessed using Depression Anxiety Stress Scale‑21, duration of social mediausage, and social media platforms used during COVID‑19 pandemic. Data was analysed usingPearson Chi‑square and ANOVA. Statistically significant variables and additional risk factors wasanalyzed using multinomial logistic regression.RESULTS: The median age was 24 years (range 17–56 years), 121 (55,0%) samples were female.The three most frequent social media platforms used by participants were Instagram, WhatsApp, andYouTube. Female were more likely to suffer from mild‑moderate depression compared to male (oddsratio [OR]: 2.344; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.105–4.972; P = 0.026) and more likely to sufferfrom severe‑extremely severe anxiety (OR: 2.066; 95% CI: 1.019–4.187; P = 0.044). Social mediaexposure was associated with less likelihood to suffer from severe‑extremely severe depression,mild‑moderate, and severe‑extremely severe anxiety, mild‑moderate stress.CONCLUSION: Social media exposure was associated with less depression, anxiety, and stress inthe COVID‑19 pandemic era. Medical professionals and government officials could use social mediato disseminate knowledge about COIVD‑19 to bring positive psychological effect.

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Existential anxiety amid COVID‑19 pandemic in Kashmir: A cross‑sectional study

. Syed Najmul Ain; . Syed Nasir Ahmad Gilani

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Existential anxiety (EA) revolves around the question of ultimate concern relatedto life and death. It gets more prominent when there is an exposure to stressful experiences ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Existential anxiety (EA) revolves around the question of ultimate concern relatedto life and death. It gets more prominent when there is an exposure to stressful experiences wherethe stress is profound and resources seem insufficient. The objective was to measure the prevalenceand magnitude of EA in the study population from the Kashmir valley during the COVID‑19 pandemic.MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross‑sectional study, data were collected through social media.All the participants belonging to the Kashmir valley were included. EA questionnaire developed byWeems et al. was used.RESULTS: A total of 132 subjects were included. The prevalence of EA concerns was death 55%,fate 62%, emptiness 73%, meaninglessness 32%, guilt 55%, and condemnation 64%. The mean EAscore was 5.0. EA was higher in those who had been diagnosed with mental illness ever in their lifeby a psychiatrist than those who had no such history. EA score was much higher in those who hadever felt a need to visit a psychiatrist than those who had not. There was no statistically significantdifference in the mean scores of EA for those who never felt this need and those who felt this needsince the start of the COVID‑19 pandemic.CONCLUSION: There was a high prevalence of EA in the study population from the Kashmir valley.Relative concerns were more prevalent than absolute concerns. EA score was higher among thosewho had mental health issues compared to others.

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Role of mental health in prediction of sexual function in infertile women, Babol, Iran

. Hajar Pasha; . Mahbobeh Faramarzi; . Zahra Basirat; . Farzan Kheirkhah; . Hajar Adib-Rad

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Infertility is one of the main concerns in women’s lives that may lead to psychologicalimbalance and disrupt their sexual relationship. The study was conducted with ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Infertility is one of the main concerns in women’s lives that may lead to psychologicalimbalance and disrupt their sexual relationship. The study was conducted with the aim of evaluatingrole of mental health in prediction of sexual function in infertile women.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This analytic‑descriptive study was conducted in 2015–2016 in424 infertile women referring to Fatemeh Zahraa Infertility and Reproductive Health Center, Babol,Iran. The participants filled out the Female Sexual Function Index (α = 0.72–0.90), General HealthQuestionnaire (GHQ‑28, α = 0.86), and demographics questionnaires. Linear regression used toanalyze the data.RESULTS: The mean of total GHQ was 23.57 ± 12.06. The highest mean of GHQ subscales wassocial dysfunction (8.68 ± 3.69). There was a negative association between GHQ with the overallsexual function of infertile women (r = −0.397, P < 0.0001). The higher mental health disorder wasassociated with lower sexual function. Furthermore, there was an inverse significant associationbetween all the subscales of mental health and sexual function. Based on the multiple linear regressionanalysis, the variables of anxiety and sleep disorder (β = −0.143, P < 0.035), social dysfunction(β= −0.139, P < 0.003), depression symptoms (β = −0.121, P < 0.046), sexual intercourse frequency(β = 0.272, P < 0.0001), and educational level (β = −0.110, P < 0.016) were the significant predictorsof perceived sexual dysfunction after adjusting for other variables. The strongest predictor of theGHQ subscale was anxiety and sleep disorder.CONCLUSIONS: Undesirable conditions of mental health and its adverse effects on sexual functionand also other predictors emphasize the need to develop more effective screening and supportivestrategies with the help of the psychologists.

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Social barriers as a challenge in seeking mental health among Saudi Arabians

. Nawal A. Alissa

Volume 11, Issue 4 , May 2021, , Pages 1-6

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: To extend our knowledge of social barriers in relation to mental health, the presentstudy was conducted to investigate the impact of social barriers on mental health help‑seeking ...  Read More BACKGROUND: To extend our knowledge of social barriers in relation to mental health, the presentstudy was conducted to investigate the impact of social barriers on mental health help‑seeking amongSaudi Arabians aged 18 years and above.MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross‑sectional study was carried out on 1632 participants in2018 during the months of October and November. The participants completed self‑administeredonline surveys about the demographic characteristics, social barriers, and knowledge and attitudesabout mental health.RESULTS: The majority of the participants agreed that social barriers could prevent them fromseeking mental health help. Stigma was chosen as the most common social barrier among theparticipants (76.3%), followed by culture (61.5%) and negative perceptions (56.2%).CONCLUSION: Social barriers are a challenge in seeking mental health. Increasing public awarenessof available services and resources as well as developing programs to fight stigmatization should beinitiated to create more positive attitudes toward people with mental illness and promote holistic well‑being.

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Relationship between internet addiction and mental health in adolescents

. Yousef Veisani; . Zahra Jalilian; . Fathola Mohamadian

Volume 10, Issue 11 , November 2020, , Pages 1-7

Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Internet addiction (IA) currently is the major public health concern, especiallyin adolescents, although the results of previous reports are not generally uniform. This ...  Read More BACKGROUND: Internet addiction (IA) currently is the major public health concern, especiallyin adolescents, although the results of previous reports are not generally uniform. This study wasconducted to determine IA in adolescents and to examine the correlation of IA with mental healthin adolescents.METHODS: This cross‑sectional study was conducted in 2019 in Ilam city. In this study, 362 personswere included using stratified cluster sampling; clusters were geographical area and schools. The validquestionnaires including Internet Addiction Test and 28‑item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ‑28)were used to interview. The correlation statistical technique was used to determine the associationbetween the two variables. The significance level was considered <0.05.RESULTS: The mean ± standard deviation age of the responders was 16.40 ± 2.47 years; the totalscore of IA and mental health was 43.02 ± 16.50 and 19.27 ± 9.72, respectively. We found that5.5% of the adolescents had a severe level of IA. The lack of control with anxiety, neglect work andsocial dysfunction, and neglect social life and severe depression in internet users were found to bestatistically significant: r (365) = 0.151, P < 0.033; r (365) = 0.126, P < 0.021; and r (365) = 0.125,P < 0.033, two‑tailed, respectively.CONCLUSION: According to the results, the excessive use of internet, lack of control, and neglectsocial life are significantly correlated with mental health in adolescents; these results could becontribute to improve the theoretical models for IA in adolescents.

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