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Background: Transnational drug trafficking, political unrest, gang violence, and paramilitarism, which are pervasive in Haiti, have resulted in a mental health crisis for the broader Haitian community. This study explores the mental well-being of Haitians in Haiti and the United States by identifying barriers and facilitators to mental health through the lived experiences of men and women. Method: Four Focus group discussions conducted in April and November 2023 engaged 28 participants (20 women and eight men) aged between 23 and 60 years from locations in Haiti (Port-au-Prince, Cite Soleil, Cayes, Cap-Haitien, Saint-Marc) and the United States. Discussions revolved around the definition of mental health, stressors, coping mechanisms, risk and protective factors, and barriers to mental health care. Results: Six principal themes emerged: 1- Chronic Traumatic Stress: continued violence, political instability, unemployment, lack of social support, adverse childhood experiences, family separation, and forced displacement were significant sources of stress. 2- Increased Health Burden: Participants reported experiencing chronic physical and psychological symptoms [i.e., hypertension, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, substance abuse, suicidal ideations, characteristics of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)], which were attributed to Haiti's social, political, and infrastructure collapse. 3- Risk Factors: limited access to mental health services, pervasive hopelessness, scarcity of opportunities, and stigma were identified as significant risks. 4- Future Uncertainty: widespread concerns regarding the future predominated. 5- Multigenerational Concerns: Significant anxiety concerning the mental health and development of children, as well as the functionality of mental health practitioners, was noted. 6- Coping and Protective Factors: Effective coping strategies include mental stimulation, peer support, managing digital consumption, engaging in leisurely activities, such as listening to music, and faith/spirituality. Conclusion: The study's findings underscore the sociopolitical and economic crisis in Haiti, which has resulted in violence and a dismantle of political, educational, financial, and health infrastructures. These factors were identified as the primary source of chronic distress, contributing to widespread mental health issues, adverse physical symptoms, and disruption in daily life. The implications for practice, healing, research & policy are discussed.

Asunto(s)

Grupos Focales , Humanos , Haití , Masculino , Femenino , Adulto , Persona de Mediana Edad , Salud Mental , Adulto Joven , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Estados Unidos , Adaptación Psicológica , Investigación Cualitativa , Trastornos Mentales/epidemiología , Trastornos Mentales/psicología , Factores de Riesgo , Violencia/psicología , Violencia/estadística & datos numéricos

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OBJECTIVE: Pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum periods bring along biological, psychological, and social changes that could affect women's sexual health. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of genital self-image on sexual satisfaction and stress in women who had a vaginal delivery. METHODS: This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted online between June and September 2023 by using snowball sampling and the data collection forms prepared in the GoogleDocs program. Women who had a normal vaginal delivery were included, were within 6 weeks to 1 year postpartum, were able to use at least one of the social media networks (e-mail, WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram), and volunteered to participate in the research. Data were collected through the Personal Information Form, the "Female Genital Self-Image Scale," the "Golombok-Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction," and the "Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised." RESULTS: The average age of the participating women was 30.54±5.83 years (n=235). The participants' mean scores were 18.94±2.92 for the Female Genital Self-Image Scale, 40.07±15.51 for the Golombok-Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction, and 8.85±8.50 for the Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised total. A statistically significant and negative relationship was found between Female Genital Self-Image Scale and Golombok-Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction and Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised total scores (r=-0.183, p<0.01; r=-0.387, p<0.01). Regression analysis (forward) was performed, and genital self-image was found to be the predictive factor affecting sexual satisfaction and stress. CONCLUSION: This study found that women had a medium level of genital self-image and sexual satisfaction and a low level of sexual distress.

Asunto(s)

Parto Obstétrico , Periodo Posparto , Autoimagen , Estrés Psicológico , Humanos , Femenino , Adulto , Estudios Transversales , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Parto Obstétrico/psicología , Periodo Posparto/psicología , Orgasmo , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , Adulto Joven , Satisfacción Personal , Genitales Femeninos , Conducta Sexual/psicología , Embarazo

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVES: to assess the association between indicators of emotional distress and dispositional mindfulness in health students at a Brazilian federal public university. METHODS: a cross-sectional study, developed with university students in the health area of a public institution from May to June 2022. In the analysis, multiple linear regression was used using SPSS software. RESULTS: the sample was mostly female, ≤ 22 years old, non-white, studying the first semesters, with a higher prevalence for the medicine course. Students presented moderate dispositional mindfulness scores. It was observed that the variables of stress, depression and current suicide risk were associated with the capacity for mindfulness. CONCLUSIONS: knowing the indicators of emotional distress that are related to the potential of mindfulness can contribute as a situational diagnosis to better design strategies that promote the improvement of emotional indicators of health students.

Asunto(s)

Atención Plena , Distrés Psicológico , Estudiantes , Humanos , Estudios Transversales , Femenino , Masculino , Atención Plena/métodos , Brasil , Estudiantes/psicología , Estudiantes/estadística & datos numéricos , Universidades/organización & administración , Universidades/estadística & datos numéricos , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , Adulto Joven , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Estrés Psicológico/etiología , Adulto , Adolescente

RESUMEN

During the COVID-19 pandemic, older people were exposed to high levels of anxiety and stress leading to loneliness and depressive disorders. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of anxiety, positive coping, perceived social support, and perceived stress on depression and loneliness among older people during the COVID-19 pandemic. This was a cross-sectional online/telephone survey. A non-probability convenience sampling method was used. Participants were 112 people aged 60 years and above, without cognitive impairment, who experienced confinement (from March 2020 onward) and had access to the internet or telephone. A path analysis model showed a direct significant effect of anxiety on both, depression (ß = .68, P < .001) and perceived stress (ß = .65, P < .001), as well as an indirect effect of anxiety on loneliness via perceived stress (ß = .65) * (ß = .40); and social support (ß = -.21) * (ß = -.20). The model showed adequate fit χ2(df = 4) =5.972, P = .201; RMSEA = 0.066 (0.000, 0.169), CFI = 0.992; TLI = 0.970. Anxiety had a significant effect on depressive symptoms as well as on loneliness via perceived social support and perceived stress. According to our findings, in order to reduce depressive symptoms and perceived loneliness, it is essential to develop timely interventions that decrease levels of anxiety and stress and increase levels of perceived social support in older people, particularly when there are any restrictions, physical or contextual, that prevent face-to-face contact. This can be achieved by implementing preventive community-based programs, enhancing accessibility to mental health services, and collaborating with local support groups, among others.

Asunto(s)

Ansiedad , COVID-19 , Depresión , Soledad , Apoyo Social , Estrés Psicológico , Humanos , COVID-19/psicología , COVID-19/epidemiología , Soledad/psicología , Estudios Transversales , Masculino , Femenino , Anciano , Depresión/psicología , Depresión/epidemiología , Ansiedad/psicología , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Persona de Mediana Edad , Adaptación Psicológica , SARS-CoV-2 , Anciano de 80 o más Años , Pandemias , Encuestas y Cuestionarios

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVES: to evaluate the prevalence of negative affectivity in university students in the post-COVID-19 pandemic context and its relationship with academic performance and professional outlook. METHODS: a cross-sectional study was conducted with undergraduate students from a public university in Minas Gerais between September 2022 and September 2023. Data were collected using a sociodemographic and psychosocial characterization questionnaire and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale 21. The relationships between negative affectivity, academic performance, and professional outlook were verified using the Kruskal-Wallis test, with a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: a total of 585 students participated in the study. A high prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress was found among university students in the post-COVID-19 context, with a notable severity of anxiety. A negative association was detected between the investigated negative affectivity, academic performance, and professional outlook. CONCLUSIONS: the results indicate an emotional vulnerability in university students, with a relationship between negative affectivity and a decline in academic performance and professional outlook.

Asunto(s)

Rendimiento Académico , Ansiedad , COVID-19 , Depresión , SARS-CoV-2 , Estudiantes , Humanos , COVID-19/psicología , COVID-19/epidemiología , Estudios Transversales , Masculino , Femenino , Universidades/organización & administración , Universidades/estadística & datos numéricos , Estudiantes/psicología , Estudiantes/estadística & datos numéricos , Brasil/epidemiología , Rendimiento Académico/estadística & datos numéricos , Rendimiento Académico/psicología , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , Depresión/epidemiología , Depresión/psicología , Ansiedad/epidemiología , Ansiedad/psicología , Adulto Joven , Adulto , Pandemias , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Estrés Psicológico/epidemiología , Estrés Psicológico/etiología , Adolescente , Prevalencia

RESUMEN

The aim of the present study was to examine the relationships between gender, sense of coherence (SOC), social support, perception of academic environment and mental health of dental students during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. A longitudinal study involving 65 undergraduates enrolled from the first to sixth semesters in the bachelor dental course of Universidade Federal Fluminense, Brazil, was conducted. Baseline data (2018) included age, gender, SOC, social support, stress control and perception of education environment. Depression, anxiety and stress were assessed at baseline (response rate: 93%) and two-year follow-up (2020; response rate: 37%). Structural Equation Modelling was used to test the relationships between independent variables and depression, anxiety and stress during COVID-19 pandemic. Lower social support (ß = -0.15), lower stress control (ß = -0.20) and lower SOC (ß = -0.39) were directly linked to higher depression (ß = 0.22). Female gender (ß = 0.22), worse perception of educational environment (ß = -0.24) and lower SOC (ß = -0.57) directly predicted higher anxiety. Female gender (ß = 0.18), lower stress control (ß = -0.21), and lower SOC (ß = -0.46) directly predicted higher stress. The link between gender and both depression and stress, was mediated by stress control. Social support was indirectly linked to depression and stress via SOC. Perception of educational environment mediated the link between SOC and anxiety. Mental health of dental students during COVID-19 pandemic was influenced by demographic characteristics, perception of educational environment, social support and SOC through both direct and indirect pathways.

Asunto(s)

Ansiedad , COVID-19 , Depresión , Salud Mental , Apoyo Social , Estrés Psicológico , Estudiantes de Odontología , Humanos , Estudiantes de Odontología/psicología , Estudiantes de Odontología/estadística & datos numéricos , Femenino , COVID-19/psicología , COVID-19/epidemiología , Masculino , Estudios Longitudinales , Salud Mental/estadística & datos numéricos , Depresión/psicología , Depresión/epidemiología , Brasil/epidemiología , Ansiedad/psicología , Ansiedad/epidemiología , Factores Sexuales , Adulto Joven , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Estrés Psicológico/epidemiología , Sentido de Coherencia , Adulto , Pandemias , SARS-CoV-2 , Adolescente

RESUMEN

Individuals considered resilient can overcome adversity, achieving normal physical and psychological development, while those deemed vulnerable may not. Adversity promotes structural and functional alterations in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and hippocampus. Moreover, activity-dependent synaptic plasticity is intricately linked to neuronal shaping resulting from experiences. We hypothesize that this plasticity plays a crucial role in resilience processes. However, there is a notable absence of studies investigating this plasticity and behavioral changes following social adversity at different life stages. Consequently, we evaluated the impact of social adversity during early postnatal development (maternal separation [MS]), adulthood (social defeat [SD]), and a combined exposure (MS + SD) on behavioral outcomes (anxiety, motivation, anhedonia, and social interaction). We also examined cFos expression induced by social interaction in mPFC and hippocampus of adult male rats. Behavioral analyses revealed that SD-induced anhedonia, whereas MS + SD increased social interaction and mitigated SD-induced anhedonia. cFos evaluation showed that social interaction heightened plasticity in the prelimbic (PrL) and infralimbic (IL) cortices, dentate gyrus (DG), CA3, and CA1. Social interaction-associated plasticity was compromised in IL and PrL cortices of the MS and SD groups. Interestingly, social interaction-induced plasticity was restored in the MS + SD group. Furthermore, plasticity was impaired in DG by all social stressors, and in CA3 was impaired by SD. Our findings suggest in male rats (i) two adverse social experiences during development foster resilience; (ii) activity-dependent plasticity in the mPFC is a foundation for resilience to social adversity; (iii) plasticity in DG is highly susceptible to social adversity.

Asunto(s)

Privación Materna , Plasticidad Neuronal , Corteza Prefrontal , Resiliencia Psicológica , Animales , Plasticidad Neuronal/fisiología , Masculino , Ratas , Anhedonia/fisiología , Interacción Social , Derrota Social , Hipocampo , Estrés Psicológico/fisiopatología , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Ratas Wistar , Conducta Animal/fisiología , Conducta Social , Ansiedad/fisiopatología

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Remote education emerged as an option during the COVID-19 pandemic; however, this modality continues to be used by various universities around the world in the postpandemic context. The aim of this study was to determine the mediating role of digital skills and mobile self-efficacy in the influence of stress on the academic engagement of Peruvian university students during remote teaching by COVID-19 using structural equation modeling (SEM). METHOD: This study involved 1,468 students from nine public and private universities in northern Peru who had undergraduate and graduate distance learning programs. RESULTS: The results showed that stress negatively influenced academic engagement (ß=-0.107*) and digital skills (ß=-0.328***). In addition, digital skills (ß = 0.470**) and mobile self-efficacy (ß = 0.684***) positively influence academic engagement. Similarly, digital skills mediate the relationship between stress and academic engagement (ß=-0.154**), and both variables act as sequential mediators in this relationship (ß=-0.348***). CONCLUSION: This study provides a deeper understanding of the factors that influence academic engagement during Remote education and lays the groundwork for the development of interventions and training programs tailored to hybrid learning contexts that promote the well-being and academic success of college students in postpandemic times.

Asunto(s)

COVID-19 , Educación a Distancia , Autoeficacia , Estrés Psicológico , Estudiantes , Humanos , Perú , Estudiantes/psicología , Estudiantes/estadística & datos numéricos , COVID-19/psicología , COVID-19/epidemiología , Educación a Distancia/métodos , Masculino , Universidades , Femenino , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Adulto Joven , Adulto , Adolescente

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVE: To examine the associations between self-reported screen time and symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression in adolescents. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 982 adolescents aged between 12 and 15 years, enrolled in public schools in Jacarezinho (PR), Brazil. Screen time was assessed by the question "Considering a typical day, how much time do you spend watching TV, playing videogame, using computer or smartphone?" The DASS-21 questionnaire (short form) was used to assess symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Crude and adjusted analyses (age, sex, and maternal level of education) between screen time and mental disorders symptoms were performed using general linear regression models, with Poisson distribution, with significance level at p<0.05. RESULTS: Higher depressive symptoms were observed in adolescents who reported screen time of 4-6 hours/day (PR 1.35, 95%CI 1.13-1.61) and ≥6 hours/day (PR 1.88, 95%CI 1.62-2.19), compared with their pairs with <2 hours/day. The same was observed for anxiety symptoms with screen time of 4-6 hours/day (PR 1.23, 95%CI 1.04-1.46) and ≥6 hours/day (PR 1.50, 95%CI 1.28-1.77); and stress, with 4-6 hours/day (PR 1.25, 95%CI 1.08-1.44) and ≥6 hours/day (PR 1.49, 95%CI 1.30-1.71), also compared with their pairs with <2 hours/day. CONCLUSIONS: Screen time was positively associated with depressive, anxiety, and stress symptoms in adolescents. Special attention should be given to those who spend more than four hours a day in front of a screen.

Asunto(s)

Ansiedad , Depresión , Tiempo de Pantalla , Estrés Psicológico , Humanos , Adolescente , Femenino , Masculino , Estudios Transversales , Depresión/epidemiología , Depresión/diagnóstico , Depresión/psicología , Ansiedad/epidemiología , Ansiedad/diagnóstico , Ansiedad/psicología , Ansiedad/etiología , Estrés Psicológico/epidemiología , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Niño , Brasil/epidemiología , Factores de Tiempo , Autoinforme

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Studies evaluating the effects of natural disasters on cancer outcomes are scarce, especially among USA ethnic minority groups, and none have focused on the effects of concurrent natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic. The goal of this secondary data analysis is to explore the impact of concurrent exposure to COVID-19 and earthquakes on psychological distress and symptom burden among Puerto Rican cancer survivors. METHODS: This secondary data analysis (n = 101) was part of a longitudinal case-control cohort study (n = 402) aimed at describing unmet psychological needs among Puerto Rican cancer patients and non-cancer subjects previously exposed to Hurricane María in 2017. The research team pooled data from participants (cancer survivors and non-cancer group) from their baseline assessments and from follow-up assessments conducted during January-July 2020 (earthquake and the lockdown period). A descriptive, paired t-test, non-parametric mean rank test, and two-sided Pearson correlation analyses were performed. RESULTS: Psychological distress and cancer symptom burden diminished over time. Resilience was significantly correlated with all the psychological and symptom burden variables during both pre- and post-earthquake and COVID-19 assessment periods. CONCLUSIONS: The results support the role of resilience, social support, and post-traumatic growth as potential protective factors preventing psychological distress and diminishing cancer symptom burden among cancer survivors exposed to natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Asunto(s)

Ansiedad , COVID-19 , Supervivientes de Cáncer , Depresión , Hispánicos o Latinos , Desastres Naturales , Trastornos por Estrés Postraumático , Adulto , Anciano , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Ansiedad/epidemiología , Ansiedad/psicología , Supervivientes de Cáncer/psicología , Estudios de Casos y Controles , COVID-19/psicología , COVID-19/epidemiología , Tormentas Ciclónicas , Depresión/epidemiología , Depresión/psicología , Terremotos , Hispánicos o Latinos/psicología , Estudios Longitudinales , Distrés Psicológico , Puerto Rico/epidemiología , Trastornos por Estrés Postraumático/epidemiología , Trastornos por Estrés Postraumático/psicología , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Carga Sintomática

RESUMEN

This study analyzed the relationship between mindfulness and variables considered relevant for teacher-student interactions: teacher burnout, general stress, anxiety, depression, and quality of life. We hypothesized that mindfulness would relate negatively with mental health variables and positively with quality of life. We also explored which specific aspects of mindfulness would predict burnout, depression, anxiety, stress, and quality of life. Given the results of regression analyses, mediation models were performed to explore the mechanisms through which different facets of mindfulness affect quality of life. As predicted, the correlation analysis showed that mindfulness and its dimensions were positively associated with the quality of life of the teachers and burnout dimension of personal fulfillment and negatively associated with anxiety, depression, and stress (considering FFMQ total score and most of its dimensions). Consistently, regression analysis showed that the overall level of mindfulness, after controlling for the grade level at which the teacher works, showed significant associations with the level of personal fulfillment, depression, anxiety, stress, and quality of life. The results of the mediation analyses showed that the ability not to judge ourselves was associated with fewer symptoms of depression and stress and, through these pathways, positively affected quality of life. On the other hand, the ability not to react favored quality of life by reducing anxiety and stress. Finally, acting with awareness was the only facet of mindfulness that favored quality of life, affecting one of the dimensions of burnout.

Asunto(s)

Ansiedad , Agotamiento Profesional , Depresión , Salud Mental , Atención Plena , Calidad de Vida , Maestros , Humanos , Masculino , Femenino , Calidad de Vida/psicología , Maestros/psicología , Adulto , Depresión/psicología , Agotamiento Profesional/psicología , Ansiedad/psicología , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Persona de Mediana Edad , Adulto Joven

RESUMEN

Culture is a central theme across various theories and disciplines, influencing behavior and self-perception through interactions within social groups, families, and legal systems. This influence extends to the general population and particularly impacts sexual and gender minorities (SGMs), resulting in minority stress that contributes to mental health issues and the development of Early Maladaptive Schemas (EMSs). Adolescents within these groups face typical developmental stressors-such as hormonal changes and societal pressures-compounded by prejudice, increasing their vulnerability to depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse, and eating disorders. Despite these challenges, Schema Therapy (ST) lacks comprehensive studies on the sociocultural aspects influencing EMS acquisition in SGM adolescents. This theoretical review aims to fill this gap by exploring the impact of society and culture on EMS development within SGM adolescents. We recognize the broad spectrum of cultural influences and emphasize the importance of cultural sensitivity and diversity. This review specifically addresses how societal and cultural dynamics impact SGM individuals, acknowledging that while ethnic or other cultural factors are not the focus of this paper, they merit future research. This manuscript will discuss central topics and their impact on LGBTQIA+ youth, including (1) the background (definition of culture, lack of studies on ST focusing on culture, and studies on adverse psychological outcomes), (2) minority stress theory and prejudice against sexual and gender diversity (distal and proximal stressors and sociocultural aspects), (3) EMSs and unmet emotional needs, (4) ST affirmative strategies (working with schema modes, imagery rescripting, chair work, and photo techniques), and (5) final considerations (limitations and research agenda).

Asunto(s)

Minorías Sexuales y de Género , Humanos , Minorías Sexuales y de Género/psicología , Adolescente , Femenino , Masculino , Cultura , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Adaptación Psicológica

RESUMEN

Previous studies have suggested that mindfulness programs can be useful, in a significant sector of the population, to reduce stress when practiced for at least 8 weeks. The objective of the present investigation was to explore the effect of a single session of mindfulness practice in reducing stress in female cancer survivors. Two repeated measures studies were applied; in the first one, it was performed individually, while in the second one, it was performed in a group. Psychosocial measures were administered, and skin temperature was recorded as a marker of autonomic nervous activity. The results indicate that only when the mindfulness exercise was presented did the skin temperature increase (p < 0.05), with a large effect size (d > 0.8) during compassion, suggesting sympathetic decline. Furthermore, the psychosocial functioning of the group of female cancer survivors was like that of the non-clinical population. The data are discussed in the context of Polyvagal Theory, a theoretical model of biopsychosocial functioning, and evidence is provided on the effect of mindfulness and compassion on reducing stress and inducing positive affect in female cancer survivors.

Asunto(s)

Neoplasias de la Mama , Supervivientes de Cáncer , Empatía , Atención Plena , Temperatura Cutánea , Estrés Psicológico , Humanos , Femenino , Neoplasias de la Mama/psicología , Supervivientes de Cáncer/psicología , Persona de Mediana Edad , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Adulto , Anciano

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: This study examined the influence of early life circumstances, family characteristics, social ties and psychological distress in adulthood on adult's health-related behaviours. METHODS: A cohort study (Pro-Saúde Study) involving technical and administrative civil servants at university campuses in Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil was conducted in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Data from 2155 adults were collected at baseline (1999) and after a 13-year period (2012-13). Family characteristics at 12 years of age were assessed retrospectively in 1999. Gender, marital status, living situation, social support, social networks of relatives and psychological distress were also measured in 1999. Data collection in 2012-13 included information about marital status, social networks of relatives, cigarette smoking, fruit and vegetable consumption and physical exercise. A conceptual model testing the relationships between variables was assessed through structural equation modelling. RESULTS: Female gender (ß = 0.043), better social networks of relatives in 1999 (ß = 0.053) and 2012-13 (ß = 0.069) and low psychological distress (ß = -0.048) directly predicted less smoking. Better social networks of relatives in 2012-13 was directly linked to higher consumption of fruits (ß = 0.045) and vegetables (ß = 0.051) and being physically active (ß = 0.070). Low psychological distress directly predicted higher fruit consumption (ß = -0.040). Family characteristics at 12 years-old, marital status and living with other people were linked indirectly with health behaviours through social networks, social support and psychological distress. CONCLUSIONS: Adults with better early life family and social circumstances, and those who were married reported positive health behaviours through indirect pathways. Stronger social ties and lower psychological distress represented the pathways by which early life circumstances and relationship status influenced positive health behaviours.

Asunto(s)

Composición Familiar , Conductas Relacionadas con la Salud , Distrés Psicológico , Apoyo Social , Humanos , Masculino , Femenino , Brasil/epidemiología , Adulto , Estudios Longitudinales , Persona de Mediana Edad , Estudios de Cohortes , Adulto Joven , Estrés Psicológico/epidemiología , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Ejercicio Físico/psicología , Adolescente , Estado Civil

RESUMEN

The increased prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has placed a significant emotional and psychological burden on mothers. We explored the association between the severity of ASD symptoms in children and the mental health of their mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our study included 1,924 mothers of children with ASD, enrolled in a web-based cross-sectional survey over 85 consecutive days to gather clinical and sociodemographic data. The severity of ASD symptoms was obtained according to the children's age. Using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales (DASS-21) scale, we found that 35.8 percent of mothers experienced both anxiety and depression. A high education level and a high family income reduced the chance of concurrent anxiety and depression. Conversely, unemployment, a child using psychiatric medication, and higher severity of ASD symptoms increased the chance. Notably, the severity of the ASD symptom was the sole predictor of maternal co-occurring anxiety and depression across all age groups (<3 years aOR = 2.04, 95%CI 1.07-3.89; 3-5 years aOR = 2.76, 95%CI 1.67-4.56; ≥ 6 years aOR = 1.61, 95%CI 1.04-2.50). Recognizing the challenges associated with ASD leads to greater acceptance and tailored interventions, ultimately improving the overall well-being of both individuals with ASD and their mothers.

Asunto(s)

Ansiedad , Trastorno del Espectro Autista , COVID-19 , Depresión , Salud Mental , Madres , Humanos , Trastorno del Espectro Autista/psicología , Trastorno del Espectro Autista/epidemiología , Madres/psicología , Estudios Transversales , Femenino , Adulto , Ansiedad/epidemiología , Ansiedad/psicología , Depresión/epidemiología , Depresión/psicología , Niño , Preescolar , COVID-19/psicología , COVID-19/epidemiología , Masculino , Estrés Psicológico/epidemiología , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , SARS-CoV-2 , Persona de Mediana Edad , Índice de Severidad de la Enfermedad , Encuestas y Cuestionarios

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVES: Latinx immigrant families may face stressful experiences premigration, en route to the host country, and once they arrive in the host country (postmigration). The present study examines the impact of premigration stress and postmigration stress (together defined as immigrant-related stress) on the mental health of Mexican-origin parents and their children using both cross-sectional and longitudinal methodology. METHOD: Data collection across four timepoints occurred from 2013 to 2018. At Time 1, 104 families were enrolled in the study and met the following criteria: (1) At least one Mexican-origin immigrant parent; (2) One child between the ages of 6-10 years; and (3) Family income at or below 150% of the federal poverty line. RESULTS: Hierarchical multiple regression and hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) were used to analyze the cross-sectional and longitudinal data, respectively. HLM models revealed that higher postmigration stress over time (2013-2018) was related to higher mental health problems among parents and children. Higher premigration stress was associated with higher parent-reported child mental health problems, while postmigration stress was associated with higher parent mental health problems. Specifically, discrimination emerged as a salient factor of poor parent mental health. Immigrant-related stress was related to higher total parent and child mental health problems. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates the strong impact of postmigration stress on mental health over the span of several years and during a time of heightened stress for many Mexican immigrant communities. The results inform the need for family-wide interventions that address the complexities of immigrant-related stress as well as comprehensive policy changes. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Asunto(s)

Emigrantes e Inmigrantes , Salud Mental , Americanos Mexicanos , Estrés Psicológico , Humanos , Emigrantes e Inmigrantes/psicología , Femenino , Masculino , Estrés Psicológico/etnología , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Niño , Estudios Transversales , Adulto , Estudios Longitudinales , Americanos Mexicanos/psicología , Americanos Mexicanos/estadística & datos numéricos , Padres/psicología , Persona de Mediana Edad , México/etnología , Emigración e Inmigración

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVES: We developed the 26-item Ethnic-Racial Discrimination Stress Inventory (ERDSI) to assess ethnic-racial discrimination stress in Mexican-origin adults in the United States and Turkish-origin adults in Germany, two groups with similar sociocultural characteristics and immigration experiences. METHOD: We developed 73 items measuring firsthand, intragroup, and vicarious discrimination, and internalization and expectations of discrimination experiences. If participants reported experiencing a given situation, they were asked to rate its stressfulness. U.S.-based Mexican-origin adults (N = 222) and German-based Turkish-origin adults (N = 105) completed an online survey of these items, measures of related constructs, and sociodemographic measures. RESULTS: Study 1: We eliminated items based on interitem correlations and exploratory factor analyses in the U.S.-based Mexican sample. The exploratory factor analyses yielded four reliable and valid factors (F1: Vicarious Discrimination Stress, seven items; F2: Internalization of Discrimination Stress, seven items; F3: Intragroup Discrimination Stress, seven items; and F4: Firsthand Discrimination Stress, five items). The ERDSI factors predicted well-being measures, even after adjusting for control variables. Study 2: The three ERDSI factors (F1, F2, F4, not F3) that applied to the German-based Turkish sample demonstrated reliability and validity. Confirmatory factor analyses demonstrated metric invariance for F2 and partial scalar invariance for F1, F3, and F4. CONCLUSIONS: The ERDSI can be used to assess ethnic-racial discrimination stress in future studies with U.S.-based Mexican-origin adults and German-based Turkish-origin adults. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Asunto(s)

Racismo , Estrés Psicológico , Humanos , Femenino , Masculino , Turquía/etnología , Alemania , Adulto , Racismo/psicología , Estrés Psicológico/etnología , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Estados Unidos , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , Persona de Mediana Edad , Psicometría , Reproducibilidad de los Resultados , Americanos Mexicanos/psicología , Adulto Joven , Emigrantes e Inmigrantes/psicología , Análisis Factorial

RESUMEN

This study sought to analyze an explanatory model on the relationship among sociodemographic factors, health-promoting lifestyle behaviors and psychological distress (depression, anxiety and stress) in college students. This is an observational, analytical and cross-sectional study conducted on a national sample of 4203 students who entered a macro university in Honduras in 2021, 2022 and 2023. We used a sociodemographic survey, the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile (HPLP-II) and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scales (DASS-21). Univariate analysis and a multivariate structural equation model were conducted. The average HPLP-II score was 117.45 (±â€…23.41), and the average DASS-21 score was 20.06 (±â€…14.16). The multivariate model showed a good data fit (comparative fit index = 0.951; Tucker-Lewis index = 0.957; root mean square error of approximation = 0.067 [90% CI = 0.067-0.068]). Results indicate that being a woman (ß = 0.11; p < 0.001) and being enrolled in biological and health sciences (ß = 0.09; p < 0.001) significantly predict HPLP-II scores. Furthermore, being a woman (ß = 0.17; p < 0.001), age (ß = 0.10; p < 0.001) and having pre-existing medical conditions (ß = 0.16; p < 0.001) significantly explain part of the variance of DASS-21. A significant reverse relationship between health-promoting behavior and psychological distress was shown (r = -0.36; p < 0.001). This study identifies protective and risky sociodemographic factors linked to health-promoting lifestyle behaviors and psychological distress. Our findings have implications for developing comprehensive intervention policies and strategies to promote health in higher education settings.

Asunto(s)

Estilo de Vida Saludable , Estudiantes , Humanos , Femenino , Masculino , Estudios Transversales , Estudiantes/psicología , Estudiantes/estadística & datos numéricos , Universidades , Adulto Joven , Honduras , Distrés Psicológico , Adulto , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Estrés Psicológico/epidemiología , Depresión/epidemiología , Depresión/psicología , Factores Sociodemográficos , Análisis de Clases Latentes , Adolescente , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , Estilo de Vida , Promoción de la Salud , Ansiedad/epidemiología , Ansiedad/psicología

RESUMEN

The Big Five personality traits have shown associations with symptoms of depression and anxiety among college students, but it is unclear which factors mediate these relationships. Past research suggests that psychological distress is closely related to difficulties in affect regulation (e.g., low distress tolerance). Therefore, the present study examined the associations between personality traits and depression and anxiety via emotion regulation and distress tolerance. Participants were 694 (81.4% females; Mean age = 23.12 [SD 2.75]) Argentinian college students who completed an online survey examining mental health and personality variables. A sizeable percentage of students endorsed moderate to severe symptoms of depression (45.1%) or anxiety (25.9%). Utilizing path analyses, we found that appraisal, a dimension of distress tolerance, atemporally mediated the association between emotional stability and symptoms of depression/anxiety (i.e., higher levels of emotional stability → higher appraisal distress tolerance → fewer symptoms of depression/anxiety). Further, expressive suppression (a dimension of emotion regulation) significantly mediated the associations between personality traits (i.e., agreeableness and extraversion) and symptoms of depression (higher levels of agreeableness/extraversion → lower use of expressive suppression → fewer symptoms of depression). Taken together, the results suggest that higher levels of emotional stability, extraversion and agreeableness could protect students from the development of symptoms of depression/anxiety via lower maladaptive emotion regulation strategies and higher distress tolerance (particularly appraisal). These findings highlight the relevance of intervention strategies specifically tailored to improve distress tolerance and emotion regulation for those students undergoing mental health problems.

Asunto(s)

Ansiedad , Depresión , Regulación Emocional , Personalidad , Humanos , Femenino , Masculino , Depresión/psicología , Ansiedad/psicología , Adulto Joven , Adulto , Estudiantes/psicología , Distrés Psicológico , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , Adolescente , Estrés Psicológico/psicología

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between social support, marital dissatisfaction, psychological factors, and health-promoting behaviors in pregnant women. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 1,265 pregnant women who visited the outpatient clinic of a maternity hospital between May and August 2023. The Health Promotion Lifestyle-II Questionnaire was used to measure the healthy lifestyle behaviors of pregnant women. The mental health status of pregnant women was measured using the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale-21. The Marital Disaffection Scale was used to assess the level of disaffection toward a spouse. Perceived social support was measured by the Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale. RESULTS: Pregnant women had a mean age of 26.46±5.09 years. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that there was a positive association between perceived social support and health-promoting behaviors. It was also found that marital disaffection was negatively associated with health-promoting behaviors (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: The present study suggests that stress, anxiety, depression, and marital disaffection are negatively associated with health-promoting lifestyle behaviors, while social support is positively associated with the adoption of health practices in pregnant women. Understanding the complex interplay between psychosocial factors and healthy behaviors is crucial to improving healthy behaviors in pregnant women.

Asunto(s)

Depresión , Conductas Relacionadas con la Salud , Apoyo Social , Humanos , Femenino , Embarazo , Adulto , Estudios Transversales , Encuestas y Cuestionarios , Adulto Joven , Depresión/psicología , Ansiedad/psicología , Promoción de la Salud/métodos , Mujeres Embarazadas/psicología , Estrés Psicológico/psicología , Factores Socioeconómicos , Estilo de Vida Saludable