The physiology of stress and stress recovery

2018 ◽  
pp. 33-39
Author(s):  
Peter Währborg ◽  
Panagiota Pervanidou ◽  
George P. Chrousos
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
The State ◽  
Stress System ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Positive Adaptation ◽  
Individual Survival ◽  
Post Traumatic ◽  
Neuroendocrine Responses ◽  
Behaviour Changes

Stress (i.e. the state of threatened homeostasis), is normally associated with adaptive physical and behavioural changes that promote individual survival. Successful maintenance of homeostasis leads to the state of eustasis, which represents health. The prolonged, excessive, or deficient response of the stress system to stress, however, may lead to a state of dyshomeostasis or cacostasis, which may lead to physical and mental health problems. Although research has focused on the detrimental effects of stress, only a few studies have been done on positive stress exposure adaptations. Increased resilience, post-traumatic psychological growth, and increased empathy may benefit chronically stressed individuals, enhancing their abilities to cope with distress. Therapeutic efforts in the treatment of short- or long-term stress aims at reducing its effect on neuroendocrine responses, behaviour changes, and so on. Community investments and interventions should focus on reducing threats and promoting positive adaptation during and after traumatic stress exposures.

scholarly journals Why Do Some Employees Fall into and Fail to Exit a Job-Lock Situation?

2013 ◽  
Vol 2013 ◽  
pp. 1-14
Author(s):  
Anna Huysse-Gaytandjieva ◽  
Wim Groot ◽  
Milena Pavlova
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
The State ◽  
Personality Characteristics ◽  
Full Time ◽  
Work Related ◽  
Job Lock ◽  
Markov Transition ◽  
Subsequent Behavior ◽  
Transition Models

Previous studies have paid little attention to the employees’ ability to exit a job-lock situation and factors that determine this ability. It remains unclear why some employees who experience job lock are able to exit this state while others remain in job lock. We use longitudinal data to identify employees who have fallen in the state of job lock and their subsequent behavior—exiting or remaining in job lock. By use of a first-order Markov transition models, we analyze the relevance of sociodemographic features, employment, occupational, sectoral, and contextual factors, as well as personality characteristics in explaining the transition or its absence. Overall the results show that both demographic factors and work-related aspects increase the likelihood that an employee enters the long-term job lock state (especially for older, married, full-time employed, those in a craft occupation and governmental sector, and in a region with high unemployment). Mental health problems and personality characteristics (low peak-end self-esteem and decisional procrastination) have a significant effect on the probability to stay in long-term job lock. On the contrary, having a managerial, service, or associate occupation, working in the private sector, and having promotion opportunities increase the chance of an exit from the state of job lock.

scholarly journals Rational for conducting PTSD Researchand Challenges of Recruiting and Training Volunteers to Screen and Treat PTSD among the Nepal 2015 Earthquake Survivors

2015 ◽  
Vol 53 (199) ◽  
pp. 202-207 ◽  
Author(s):  
Arun Jha ◽  
Suraj Shakya
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Traumatic Stress ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Psychiatric Morbidity ◽  
Post Traumatic Stress ◽  
Short Term ◽  
Post Traumatic ◽  
Earthquake Survivors ◽  
And Training

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder is common psychiatric morbidity among earthquake survivors, and if untreated people suffer from it for years. Government of Nepal and NGOs provided various short-term mental health services to the victims of the 2015 earthquake in Nepal, but there was no plan or provision for long-term mental health problems. The prevalence of PTSD following natural disasters depends on various local factors requiring understanding and further investigation before identifying affordable evidence based interventions. This paper discusses the need for PTSD research among the survivors of the 2015 earthquake in Nepal, and describes the challenges and difficulties of recruiting and training PTSD volunteers.  Keywords: earthquake; narrative exposure therapy; Nepal; prevalence; PTSD.

scholarly journals Collective Trauma and Mental Health in Adolescents: A Retrospective Cohort Study of the Effects of Retraumatization

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hannah Pazderka ◽  
Matthew R. G. Brown ◽  
Vincent I. O. Agyapong ◽  
Andrew James Greenshaw ◽  
Caroline Beth McDonald-Harker ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Post Traumatic Stress ◽  
Trauma History ◽  
Symptom Profile ◽  
Trauma Informed ◽  
Post Traumatic ◽  
Informed Treatment ◽  
The Impact

In the wake of the massive Canadian wildfire of May 2016 in the area of Fort McMurray Alberta, we observed increased rates of mental health problems, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), in school-aged adolescents (ages 11–19). Surprisingly, we did not see these rates decline over the 3.5-year follow-up period. Additionally, our research suggested that the impact of this mass incident resulted in other unanticipated effects, including the finding that children who were not present for and relatively unaffected by the wildfire showed a similar PTSD symptom profile to children more directly involved, suggesting some degree of spillover or stress contagion. A potential explanation for these high rates in individuals who were not present could be undiagnosed retraumatization in some of the students. To investigate this possibility, we compared two groups of students: those who reported the wildfire as their most significant trauma (n = 740) and those who had their most significant trauma prior to the wildfire (n = 295). Those with significant pre-existing trauma had significantly higher rates of both depression and PTSD symptoms, although, unexpectedly the groups exhibited no differences in anxiety level. Taken together, this evidence suggests retraumatization is both longer-lasting and more widespread than might be predicted on a case-by-case basis, suggesting the need to reconceptualize the role of past trauma history in present symptomatology. These findings point to the need to recognize that crises instigated by natural disasters are mass phenomena which expose those involved to numerous unanticipated risks. New trauma-informed treatment approaches are required that incorporate sensitivity to the collective impact of mass crises, and recognize the risk of poorer long-term mental health outcomes for those who experienced trauma in the past.

Youth Suicide in New Zealand

Crisis ◽  
1996 ◽  
Vol 17 (3) ◽  
pp. 116-122 ◽  
Author(s):  
Barbara Disley ◽  
Carolyn Coggan
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
New Zealand ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Age Group ◽  
Youth Suicide ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Suicide Rates ◽  
Considerable Impact

It is increasingly acknowledged that suicidal behavior has a considerable impact on both individuals and society in terms of acute physical and mental health problems, long-term disability, and death, as well as quality of life and resource provision. In recent years there has been increasing concern about youth suicide rates. The escalation in suicide rates among individuals in the 15-24-year age group began around 1980 and has continued to rise. While this trend is evident in most OECD countries, the increase in New Zealand has been more substantial and sustained than in other countries. This article examines the occurrence of youth suicide in New Zealand. Next, an outline of New Zealand government and nongovernmental responses to youth suicide are presented. Finally, a variety of intervention options which take into account New Zealand societal conditions are outlined.

scholarly journals PTSD and bipolar II disorder in Fukushima disaster relief workers after the 2011 nuclear accident

2020 ◽  
Vol 13 (9) ◽  
pp. e236725
Author(s):  
Arinobu Hori ◽  
Yoshitake Takebayashi ◽  
Masaharu Tsubokura ◽  
Yoshiharu Kim
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Disaster Relief ◽  
Ptsd Symptoms ◽  
Post Traumatic Stress ◽  
Bipolar Ii Disorder ◽  
Bipolar Ii ◽  
Long Time ◽  
Post Traumatic ◽  
Global Threat

The global threat posed by the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need to accurately identify the immediate and long-term postdisaster impacts on disaster-relief workers. We examined the case of a local government employee suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and bipolar II disorder following the Great East Japan Earthquake. The complex and harsh experience provoked a hypomanic response such as elated feelings with increased energy, decreased need for sleep and an increase in goal-directed activity, which allowed him to continue working, even though he was adversely affected by the disaster. However, 3.5 years later, when he suffered further psychological damage, his PTSD symptoms became evident. In addition to treating mood disorders, trauma-focused psychotherapy was required for his recovery. Thereafter, we considered the characteristics of mental health problems that emerge in disaster-relief workers, a long time after the disaster, and the conditions and treatments necessary for recovery.

scholarly journals GPPCOS: exploring women’s experience of the management of PCOS in general practice

2019 ◽  
Vol 69 (suppl 1) ◽  
pp. bjgp19X702965
Author(s):  
Sarah Hillman ◽  
Jeremy Dale ◽  
Carol Bryce
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
General Practice ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
High Rate ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Long Term Effects ◽  
Delay In Diagnosis ◽  
Women's Experience ◽  
Ovarian Syndrome

BackgroundPolycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) affects up to one in five women, with the diagnosis and management mostly occurring in general practice. The condition can affect many parts of a woman’s physical and mental health. Recent evidence shows that women often experience a delay in diagnosis and that there is a high rate of underdiagnosis.AimTo research patients’ perspectives as to how PCOS is managed in general practice, whether it is being viewed as a ‘multisystem’ condition rather than just one of fertility, and how the long-term effects of the syndrome are being addressed.MethodA questionnaire was designed to investigate women’s experience of how PCOS is being diagnosed, treated, and managed in general practice, including consideration of its longer-term potential consequences. Women were signposted to the questionnaire through websites/social media of four charities/patient support networks and BBC Radio Leicester.ResultsIn total 333 women completed the questionnaire. Only 12% of women recalled having been told by a GP about the risk of developing diabetes and none recalled being told about endometrial hyperplasia. Although 74% felt PCOS had impacted on their mental health only 39% had discussed this with their GP. In 116 cases (35%) women did not recall their weight being addressed despite having a body mass index of ≥25.ConclusionPCOS appears not to be viewed as a chronic metabolic condition, with women not able to recall being told of their higher risks for comorbid conditions. Concurrent mental health problems are often not being addressed.

Evaluation of the sustained implementation of a mental health learning initiative in long-term care

2006 ◽  
Vol 19 (5) ◽  
pp. 842-858 ◽  
Author(s):  
Carrie A. McAiney ◽  
Paul Stolee ◽  
Loretta M. Hillier ◽  
Diane Harris ◽  
Pam Hamilton ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Learning Strategies ◽  
Long Term Care ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Challenging Behaviors ◽  
Health Problems ◽  
Assessment Tools ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Term Care

Background: This paper describes an innovative education program for the management of mental health problems in long-term care (LTC) homes and the evaluation of its longer-term sustainability. Since 1998, the [ldquor]Putting the P.I.E.C.E.S. Together[rdquor] learning initiative has been providing education sessions and related learning strategies aimed at developing the knowledge and skills of health professionals who care for older persons with complex physical and mental health needs and associated behaviors, in Ontario, Canada. A major focus of this province-wide initiative was the development of in-house Psychogeriatric Resource Persons (PRPs).Methods: Evaluation of this initiative included the completion of pre- and post-education questionnaires (over three data collection time periods) assessing learner confidence (N = 1,024 and 792, for pre- and post-education, respectively) and session evaluation questionnaires gathering feedback on the session (N = 2,029 across all sessions). A survey of LTC homes in Ontario (N = 439, 79% of the homes in the province) was conducted to assess longer-term sustainability.Results: Ratings of the sessions indicated that they were relevant to learners' clinical practice. There were significant increases in ratings of ability to recognize and understand challenging behaviors and mental health problems, and in ability to use a variety of assessment tools. Few homes (15%) do not have a PRP; over 50% of the staff who completed the first session in 1999 continue to serve as a PRP and to apply learned skills.Conclusions: A learning initiative with supportive and reinforcing strategies can develop in-house PRPs to enhance the care of the elderly in LTC. Incorporation of PRP functions into job descriptions and management support contributed to the success of this initiative. This study highlights the importance of work environments that support and reinforce the use of learned skills to the success of continuing education and quality improvement initiatives in LTC.

scholarly journals Governing the Risks of Cyber Bullying in the Workplace During the Era of Covid-19

2021 ◽  
Vol 6 (10) ◽  
pp. 334-342
Author(s):  
Wan Rosalili Wan Rosli ◽  
Syazni Nadzirah Ya’cob ◽  
Mardiyah Hayati Abu Bakar ◽  
Mimi Sintia Mohd Bajury
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
Legal Framework ◽  
Cyber Bullying ◽  
Negative Consequences ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Post Traumatic Stress ◽  
Social Media Platforms ◽  
Post Traumatic ◽  
Online Sources

With the advancement of ICT, cyberbullying has become more common than ever before, particularly in modern workplaces. With the requirement of working from home during the pandemic, cyberbullying within the workplace has skyrocketed within the past year. Cyberbullying can be classified as a traditional crime that has transcended to cyberspace as a result of technological advancements and the proliferation of numerous social media platforms. Despite widespread public concern about such crime in Malaysia, the legislative response to this crime is still somewhat slow due to the gaps in the current legislation governing cyberbullying. The legal landscape governing cyberbullying is still insufficient, due to the current legal framework being too general, making investigation and prosecution of the crime difficult. Cyberbullying can result in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, psychological problems, major physical and mental health problems, and even suicide. The purpose of this article is to investigate the notions of cyber bullying harassment, the risks associated with such crimes, and the legal and management mechanisms for dealing with such crimes. This research makes use of a doctrinal content analysis as well as secondary data from the law, academic journals, books, and online sources. According to the authors, unequal power relations in the workplace, anonymity, and cross-border connectedness are some of the rationales for cyberbullying, which can be expressed in a variety of ways with negative consequences for employers and employees alike. The inadequacy of the present traditional and computer-specific legislation in dealing with such crime necessitates the management of such crime.

Barriers to Physical Activity in Adolescents

2015 ◽  
Vol 23 (2) ◽  
pp. 47-59 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nadine Langguth ◽  
Tanja Könen ◽  
Simone Matulis ◽  
Regina Steil ◽  
Caterina Gawrilow ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Leisure Activities ◽  
Outcome Expectations ◽  
Multidimensional Approach ◽  
Factor Analyses ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Tailored Interventions ◽  
Long Term Consequences ◽  
Age Range

During adolescence, physical activity (PA) decreases with potentially serious, long-term consequences for physical and mental health. Although barriers have been identified as an important PA correlate in adults, research on adolescents’ PA barriers is lacking. Thus reliable, valid scales to measure adolescents’ PA barriers are needed. We present two studies describing a broad range of PA barriers relevant to adolescents with a multidimensional approach. In Study 1, 124 adolescents (age range = 12 – 24 years) reported their most important PA barriers. Two independent coders categorized those barriers. The most frequent PA barriers were incorporated in a multidimensional questionnaire. In Study 2, 598 adolescents (age range = 13 – 21 years) completed this questionnaire and reported their current PA, intention, self-efficacy, and negative outcome expectations. Seven PA barrier dimensions (leisure activities, lack of motivation, screen-based sedentary behavior, depressed mood, physical health, school workload, and preconditions) were confirmed in factor analyses. A multidimensional approach to measuring PA barriers in adolescents is reliable and valid. The current studies provide the basis for developing individually tailored interventions to increase PA in adolescents.

Physical and Psychological Benefits of Written Emotional Expression

2015 ◽  
Vol 20 (4) ◽  
pp. 242-251 ◽  
Author(s):  
Éva Kállay
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Expressive Writing ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Health Problems ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Psychological Benefits ◽  
Cost Effective Treatment ◽  
Meta Analyses

Abstract. The last several decades have witnessed a substantial increase in the number of individuals suffering from both diagnosable and subsyndromal mental health problems. Consequently, the development of cost-effective treatment methods, accessible to large populations suffering from different forms of mental health problems, became imperative. A very promising intervention is the method of expressive writing (EW), which may be used in both clinically diagnosable cases and subthreshold symptomatology. This method, in which people express their feelings and thoughts related to stressful situations in writing, has been found to improve participants’ long-term psychological, physiological, behavioral, and social functioning. Based on a thorough analysis and synthesis of the published literature (also including most recent meta-analyses), the present paper presents the expressive writing method, its short- and long-term, intra-and interpersonal effects, different situations and conditions in which it has been proven to be effective, the most important mechanisms implied in the process of recovery, advantages, disadvantages, and possible pitfalls of the method, as well as variants of the original technique and future research directions.

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