Key expressions of trauma-related distress in Cambodian children: A step toward culturally sensitive trauma assessment and intervention

2020 ◽  
pp. 136346152090600 ◽  
Author(s):  
Caleb J Figge ◽  
Cecilia Martinez-Torteya ◽  
Sopheap Taing ◽  
Sotheara Chhim ◽  
Devon E Hinton

More than half of all children in Cambodia experience direct abuse and over 70% experience other traumatic events, which significantly increase their risks for a range of physical and mental health problems. Additionally, Cambodian children face longstanding sociopolitical, intergenerational, and cultural factors that compound the impact of other trauma. As a result, rates of posttraumatic stress symptoms among Cambodian youth are high. However, care providers often rely on Western-based nosology that does not account for culturally specific expressions of trauma. A greater understanding of culturally-salient expressions of distress can help inform diagnostic assessment accuracy and treatment effectiveness and monitoring. The current study utilized a qualitative design to interview 30 Cambodian caregivers of children with trauma experiences and 30 Cambodian children (ages 10–13 years) with trauma experiences to identify key local expressions of trauma. Findings reveal certain PTSD symptoms and culturally-specific frequent and severe trauma-related problems for Cambodian children and domains of functioning impacted by trauma. Certain symptoms seem particularly important to evaluate in this group, such as anger, physical complaints (e.g., headache and palpitations), and cognitive-focused complaints (in particular, “thinking too much”). All caregivers and children reported physical health as impacted by trauma-related problems, highlighting a particularly salient domain of functioning for this population. Expressions of distress explored in the current study are discussed in the context of assessment and intervention development to inform diagnostic and clinical efforts for those working with trauma-exposed Cambodian children.

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Esme Fuller-Thomson

Objective 1) To examine the relationship between migraine status and complete mental health (CMH) among a nationally representative sample of Canadians; 2) To identify significant correlates of CMH among those with migraine. Methods Secondary analysis of the nationally representative Canadian Community Health Survey – Mental Health (CCHS-MH) (N=21,108). Bivariate analyses and a series of logistic regression models were performed to identify the association between migraine status and CMH. Significant correlates of CMH were identified in the sample of those with migraine (N=2,186). Results Individuals without a history of migraine had 72% higher odds of being in CMH (OR=1.72; 95% CI=1.57, 1.89) when compared with those with a history of migraine. After accounting for physical health and mental health problems, the relationship between migraine status and CMH was reduced to non-significance, with both groups having an approximately equal likelihood of achieving CMH (OR=1.03; 05% CI=(0.92, 1.15). Among those with migraine, factors that were strongly associated with CMH were a lack of a history of depression, having a confidant, and having an income of $80,000 or more. Conclusion Clinicians and health care providers should also address co-occurring physical and mental health issues to support the overall well-being of migraineurs.


2019 ◽  
Vol 55 (7) ◽  
pp. 839-876 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ruimin Ma ◽  
Farhana Mann ◽  
Jingyi Wang ◽  
Brynmor Lloyd-Evans ◽  
James Terhune ◽  
...  

Abstract Purpose Subjective and objective social isolation are important factors contributing to both physical and mental health problems, including premature mortality and depression. This systematic review evaluated the current evidence for the effectiveness of interventions to improve subjective and/or objective social isolation for people with mental health problems. Primary outcomes of interest included loneliness, perceived social support, and objective social isolation. Methods Three databases were searched for relevant randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Studies were included if they evaluated interventions for people with mental health problems and had objective and/or subjective social isolation (including loneliness) as their primary outcome, or as one of a number of outcomes with none identified as primary. Results In total, 30 RCTs met the review’s inclusion criteria: 15 included subjective social isolation as an outcome and 11 included objective social isolation. The remaining four evaluated both outcomes. There was considerable variability between trials in types of intervention and participants’ characteristics. Significant results were reported in a minority of trials, but methodological limitations, such as small sample size, restricted conclusions from many studies. Conclusion The evidence is not yet strong enough to make specific recommendations for practice. Preliminary evidence suggests that promising interventions may include cognitive modification for subjective social isolation, and interventions with mixed strategies and supported socialisation for objective social isolation. We highlight the need for more thorough, theory-driven intervention development and for well-designed and adequately powered RCTs.


2021 ◽  
Vol 16 (3) ◽  
pp. 92-102
Author(s):  
Isha Tajane ◽  
Aamena Golwala ◽  
Devanshi Nangia ◽  
Isha Chavan

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced children to spend increased amounts of time at home resulting in adverse effects on their physical and psychosocial wellbeing. Parents need to be aware about the changes in the mental and physical health of the children. Objectives: To identify the physical and mental health problems the children are facing because of the lockdown and to assess the awareness of such problems amongst the parents. Design: A cross sectional online survey was conducted to assess the impact of COVID-19 on physical and mental health of the children from parents' perspectives. Setting: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India Main Outcome Measure: Parent reported questionnaire. Results and conclusion: There were a significant increase in the number of hours spent on mobile phones, sitting, and sleeping during the lockdown as compared to before the lockdown whereas the number of hours spent on physical activity significantly decreased and also impacted their mental health. By taking part in the survey, the parents of the children became aware of the changes occurring in their child. These findings can guide immediate programmatic and policy efforts to preserve and promote child health during the COVID-19 outbreak and crisis recovery period, and to inform strategies to mitigate potential harm during future pandemics.


2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Claudia R. Amura ◽  
Tanya R. Sorrell ◽  
Mary Weber ◽  
Andrea Alvarez ◽  
Nancy Beste ◽  
...  

Abstract Background. As Colorado ranked among the top nationally in non-medical use of opioids, a pilot medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) program was developed to increase the number of NPs and PAs providing MOUD in order to bring this evidence based treatment 2 counties showing disproportionally high opioid overdose deaths. Over the first 18 months, the MOUD Pilot Program led to 15 new health care providers receiving MOUD waiver training and 1,005 patients receiving MOUD from the 3 participating organizations. Here we evaluate the impact of the pilot MOUD program implemented in 2 rural counties severely affected by the opioid crisis on patient centered clinical and functional outcomes. Methods. Under state-funded law, three rural agencies submitted patient-level data at baseline (N = 1005) and after 6 months of treatment (N = 190, 25%) between December 2017 and January 2020. The Addiction Severity Index with McNemar-Bowker and t tests were used to measure program impact. Results. Patients in treatment reported using less heroin (13.0 vs. 3.7 days), opioids (3.7 vs. 1.9 days), and alcohol (3.2 vs 0.7 days, all P < 0.01). Patients reported improved health (53.4% vs. 68.2%, P = 0.04), less days of disability (8.69 vs. 6.51, P = 0.02), symptoms (29.8% vs 21.3%), pain (67.5 % to 53.6), worry (45.3% vs 62.3%), anxiety (49.7% vs 23.2%), depression (54.1% vs 23.3%, all P < 0.02) after treatment. Conclusions. This study shows decreased substance use, improved physical and mental health, and reduced symptoms after 6 months of MOUD. Although more research on retention and long-term effects is needed, data shows improved health outcomes after 6 months of MOUD. Lessons learned from implementing this pilot program informed program expansion into other rural areas in need to address some of Colorado’ major public health crises.


1995 ◽  
Vol 1 (2) ◽  
pp. 48-54
Author(s):  
Nancy Fishwick

The consequences of abusive relationships are reflected in the physical and psychologic distress for which women seek assistance from health care providers. Although the physical and mental health problems from the abuse are addressed and treated, the heart of the matter— the abuse at home— goes unattended Women often leave the health care setting as isolated and uninformed about options as when they came in. Mental health settings offer important opportunities for psychiatric nurses to identify and intervene with women in abusive relationships. Whether encounters are relatively brief or occur over an extended period of time, important interactions can take place. The nurse's response to women in abusive relationships is one component of a unified community-wide response that is needed to prevent violence and abuse in the home. (J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc [1995]. 1, 48–54)


Author(s):  
Sigrun Sigurdardottir ◽  
Sigridur Halldorsdottir

This paper uses the method of theory synthesis, primarily from our own previous studies and psychoneuroimmunology research, with the aim of exploring and better understanding the consequences of sexual violence for women and their search for inner healing. The impact of the #MeToo movement is also examined. The main finding is that sexual violence causes persistent suffering for women and girls. In childhood and adolescence, the main consequences include a feeling of unbearable secrecy, threat and humiliation; disconnection of body and soul; great fear and constant insecurity; damaged self-image, self-accusation and guilt; experiencing being compelled to take full responsibility for the crime; as well as various physical and mental health problems, e.g., suicidal thoughts. In adulthood, the consequences are also multifaceted and varied, including vaginal problems, recurrent urinary tract infections, widespread and chronic pain, sleeping problems, chronic back problems, and fibromyalgia, eating disorders, social anxiety, severe depression, and chronic fatigue. In conclusion, sexual violence has these extremely negative and long-term consequences because of the interconnectedness of body, mind, and soul. The seriousness of the consequences makes a trauma-informed approach to services essential to support the healing and improved health and well-being of survivors.


2022 ◽  
Vol 355 ◽  
pp. 02053
Author(s):  
Jingyu Liu

During the novel coronavirus pandemic, many people stopped going to the gym, and lack of exercise is likely to cause physical and mental health problems such as decreased immunity, in turn making them vulnerable to infection. Fitness apps can help people exercise at home by providing online professional guidance and supervision. This study explored the factors influencing fitness the intention to use apps during the epidemic in China. A new variable named epidemic crisis risk perception was added to the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology model to reflect the impact of the epidemic. Performance expectation has the greatest impact on the willingness to use fitness apps. Therefore, developers must pay close attention to the needs of the public and improve the functions of apps to improve their satisfaction. In addition, the risk perception of epidemic crisis positively correlates with the willingness to use such apps, indicating that the novel coronavirus pandemic indeed affected public psychology and behavioural intention.


Author(s):  
Julia Baumann ◽  
Charlotte Williamson ◽  
Dominic Murphy

LAY SUMMARY Currently, research on the experiences and challenges of being female in the UK Armed Forces is lacking. The current study aimed to explore some of the challenges and obstacles women have experienced both during their military service and as Veterans. In total, 750 female Veterans from the army were surveyed on their experiences during their military service and as Veterans and on their current physical and mental health problems. The results indicate that women experience several gender-based challenges, such as sexism and discrimination, during military service and as Veterans, and these challenges are linked to current physical and mental health difficulties.


2015 ◽  
Vol 37 (4) ◽  
pp. 213-219 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nathália R. S. Kimura ◽  
Virgínia L. R. Maffioletti ◽  
Raquel L. Santos ◽  
Maria Alice Tourinho Baptista ◽  
Marcia C. N. Dourado

Introduction: There is growing recognition of early onset dementia (EOD) as a significant clinical and social problem because of its effects on physical and mental health of people with dementia (PWD) and their caregivers. Objective: To analyze the psychosocial impact of EOD in family caregivers. Methods: The study design was qualitative. Nine EOD caregivers (7 women) were recruited at a service for Alzheimer's disease and assessed using semi-structured interviews. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to analyze caregivers' reports. Results: Five themes emerged from the narratives: psychological and emotional impact; physical impact; financial and professional impact; social impact and need for support services. The majority of the caregivers of people with EOD perceived their emotional wellbeing as poor or extremely poor. Carers reported poor physical health, which tends to be longer-lasting than mental health problems. Two caregivers had to retire after the disclosure of the dementia diagnosis, and seven reduced their work loads because they had to look after PWD. Preserving the abilities of PWD is essential to maintain their self-esteem, dignity and sense of utility. For the caregivers, interventions and stimulating activities make PWD feel worthwhile and contribute to improving life. Conclusion: The caregivers of people with EOD assume the role of caregiver prematurely and need to balance this activity with other responsibilities. There is a need for more studies of EOD in order to improve understanding of the impact of this disease and to enable development of adequate services for PWD and their caregivers.


2020 ◽  
pp. 108482232097495
Author(s):  
Ellen M.T. Smith ◽  
Alan Chong W. Lee ◽  
James M. Smith ◽  
Alecia Thiele ◽  
Hallie Zeleznik ◽  
...  

Survivors of critical illness, including those with COVID-19, are likely to experience post-intensive care syndrome (PICS). PICS involves a constellation of physical, cognitive, and mental health problems that can occur following hospitalization in an intensive care unit (ICU). This focused review describes the impact of PICS on an individual’s function, societal participation, and family. Specific evidence-based screening tools for in-home identification of the deficits associated with PICS are recommended. Recognition of PICS through early screening by home health care providers is crucial in order to assemble the physical rehabilitation, mental health, and community resources needed to mitigate the long-term effects of COVID-19 and other critical illnesses. This review concludes with further PICS resources for community-based providers to enhance their knowledge and expertise and to prepare them for caring for COVID-19 and other critical illness survivors.


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