Associations of Fear of COVID-19 and Depression with Internet Addiction in Korean Adults: A Cross-sectional Online Study (Preprint)

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sun Hwa Shin ◽  
Jung Jae Lee
Keyword(s):  
Psychological Distress ◽  
Internet Addiction ◽  
Internet Use ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Population Based ◽  
Negative Effects ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Ehealth Literacy ◽  
Korean Adults

BACKGROUND Internet use during the COVID-19 pandemic has increased exponentially, resulting in increasing prevalence of Internet addiction. The negative effects of Internet addiction on health including psychological distress have become more prevalent during the pandemic. OBJECTIVE The study aimed to investigate the associations between Internet addiction and psychological distress, including the fear of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and depression, in Korean adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A population-based cross-sectional online survey was conducted from 14th to 18th May 2021. Potential adult survey respondents aged 20 years or older were randomly extracted from one of the largest online survey panels in Korea, matching Korean national demographical proportions (i.e., region, gender, and age). 1,155 participants were recruited. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate the participants’ characteristics and analyze the adjusted odds ratios (aORs) respectively. RESULTS 11.17%, 15.15% and 37.23% of the Korean adults were at risk of Internet addiction, COVID-19 fear, and depression respectively. Internet addiction was positively associated with COVID-19 fear (aOR=3.25, 95% CI [2.10, 5.04]) and depressive symptoms (aOR=6.40, 95% CI [4.15, 9.86]). Moreover, the participant group with high COVID-19 fear and depression had a 10.22 times higher odds ratio for Internet addiction (aOR=10.22, 95% CI [5.88, 17.77]), compared with the group with low COVID-19 fear and depression. CONCLUSIONS Addictive use of the Internet was significantly associated with psychological distress during COVID-19 pandemic. Development of public health strategies that mitigate addictive Internet use and increase eHealth literacy will be useful to secure the public’s psychological well-being.

scholarly journals Sensitivity and Concurrent validity of the Japanese Version of the Euthymia Scale: A Clinimetric Analysis

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Natsu Sasaki ◽  
Danilo Carrozzino ◽  
Daisuke Nishi
Keyword(s):  
Psychological Distress ◽  
Concurrent Validity ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Negative Relationship ◽  
Japanese Version ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Population Based ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Major Depressive Episodes ◽  
Depressive Episodes

Abstract Background: The present study was conducted to examine the clinimetric sensitivity of the Japanese version of the Euthymia Scale (ES-J). The concurrent validity of the ES-J was also tested.Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted. The Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview was used to determine the presence of past or current major depressive episodes (MDE). Pearson’s correlation coefficients were performed to examine the concurrent validity of the ES-J. At the same time, its clinimetric sensitivity was evaluated using both the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and multivariate regression models. Results: A total of 1030 eligible participants completed the survey. The ES-J differentiated healthy subjects from those with a past or current history of MDE, subjects with current MDE from those with sub-threshold symptoms of depression, and healthy participants from subjects with moderate to severe symptoms of psychological distress. The associations between the ES-J and measures of psychological well-being, resilience, life satisfaction, and social support were significantly positive. A negative relationship between the ES-J and measures of psychological distress was also found. Limitations: The main limitations included utilizing the cross-sectional design, excluding Item Response Theory analyses, using the population-based sample, and using only self-reported online questionnaires.Conclusions: The findings of the present study indicated that the ES-J is a valid and highly sensitive clinimetric index, which can be used as a screening measure in the clinical process of assessment of recovery, particularly when symptoms are expected to be mild and/or when dealing with subclinical symptoms of psychological distress and depression.

scholarly journals Internet use, eHealth literacy and fear of COVID-19 among nursing students in the Philippines

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ryan Michael Flores Oducado ◽  
Cyruz P. Tuppal ◽  
Homelo V. Estoque ◽  
Jonaid M. Sadang ◽  
Daryl L. Superio ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Nursing Students ◽  
Internet Use ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Well Being ◽  
The Philippines ◽  
Nursing Schools ◽  
The Internet ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Ehealth Literacy ◽  
Use Of The Internet

The COVID-19 outbreak situation brought into focus not only the safety but also the mental well-being of nursing students. At present, the level of fear of COVID-19 and associated factors among nursing students in the Philippines are not well understood. This cross-sectional online survey determined the relationship between Internet use and eHealth literacy with fear of COVID-19. One thousand three hundred and sixty-seven (n=1,367) answered an online survey using the adopted eHealth Literacy Scale (eHEALS), and Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) administered from May 1 to 15, 2020. Descriptive statistics, tests for differences, and correlational analysis were performed. Results indicated that the composite score of the FCV-19S was 3.65, indicating moderate to high levels of fear. Fear of COVID-19 significantly differed based on sex, year level, and location. A significant inverse relationship was found between the average daily use of the Internet and fear of COVID-19. On the other hand, no significant association was noted between eHealth literacy and fear of COVID-19. The first wave of the COVID-19 outbreak has resulted in a far-reaching impact on nursing students' psychological well-being. This study highlights the value of the Internet and its use during the outbreak may not always lead to higher fear related to COVID-19. Nursing schools may need to create strategies to promote regulated and responsible Internet use, address students' mental health concerns, and develop interventions to respond proactively to mitigate or reduce fear among nursing students during the pandemic.

scholarly journals Psychological Distress in Caregivers for People With Dementia: A Population-Based Analysis of A National Cross-Sectional Study

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Norio Sugawara ◽  
Norio Yasui-Furukori ◽  
Kazushi Maruo ◽  
Kazutaka Shimoda ◽  
Tomiki Sumiyoshi
Keyword(s):  
Psychological Distress ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Population Based ◽  
Multivariable Logistic Regression Analysis ◽  
Serious Psychological Distress ◽  
Forward Selection ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
People With Dementia ◽  
Modifiable Factors ◽  
Distress Scale

Abstract Background: Informal caregivers (CGs), also called family caregivers, play an important role in supporting the well-being of and providing care to older people with dementia. However, taking care of patients with dementia is often stressful and exhausting. To facilitate the sustainable provision of care to people with dementia at home, it is crucial to reduce the burden placed on CGs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the psychological distress experienced by CGs for care recipients with dementia (CRDs) and identify the sociodemographic factors affecting that distress.Methods: We utilized the 2013 Comprehensive Survey of the Living Conditions for CRDs and CGs. Linked data from 643 pairs of CRDs and CGs were extracted. The psychological distress experienced by CGs was measured by Kessler’s Psychological Distress scale (K6) with a cutoff point of 13. Factors predictive of psychological distress were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression analysis with the forward selection method.Results: Overall, the mean age of the CGs was 63.5 ± 11.6 years, and 5.3% (34/643) experienced serious psychological distress. Male sex of CRDs, knowing how to access consulting services, spending almost all day for nursing care, and having subjective symptoms within a few days were associated with having serious psychological distress, while older age, participating in shopping as part of the nursing, and having their own house were related to freedom from serious psychological distress.Conclusions: Clinicians should be aware of the risk factors for psychological distress in CGs and consider providing support to reduce the burden imposed by modifiable factors. Further studies are warranted to examine whether such efforts would improve the mental health of CGs for CRDs.

scholarly journals The effect of COVID-19 on mental well-being in Switzerland: a cross-sectional survey of the adult Swiss general population

2021 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Laura Diaz Hernandez ◽  
Stéphanie Giezendanner ◽  
Roland Fischer ◽  
Andreas Zeller
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
At Risk ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Population Based ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Health Concerns ◽  
Mental Health Concerns ◽  
Mental Well Being

Abstract Background In addition to the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic to physical health, mental health is challenged by the emotional response to the situation and the official measures taken to stop the pandemic. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of impaired mental well-being due to COVID-19 and explore associated factors. Methods The study was an observational, population-based, nationwide, cross-sectional online survey of a representative sample of the general Swiss population performed between March and April 2020. Participants reported on mental well-being, self-isolation/quarantine, their risk for developing severe COVID-19, and their work situation. Multivariable logistic regression analyses assessed risk factors for impaired mental well-being due to the pandemic. Results Data from 1022 individuals were analysed. The median age was 44 years (range 18 to 78) and 49% were women. A third of respondents reported that the COVID-19 pandemic impaired their mental well-being and almost half reported specific mental health concerns. Impaired mental well-being was associated with having health problems (OR = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.29–2.74, vs no problems), being or living with someone at risk for severe COVID-19 (OR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1–1.9,), smoking (OR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.24–2.61), living in urban residential environments (OR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.13–2.32, vs rural), not being able to work due to closed workplace (OR = 1.66, 95% CI: 1.04–2.67), aged between 18 and 29 years old (OR = 1.99, 95% CI: 1.32–3.01, vs 45 to 59 years old), and living in a single household (living with someone, OR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.44–0.97,vs single household). Overall, the most significant covariates of impaired mental well-being were specific mental health concerns: feeling depressed (OR = 7.21, 95% CI: 4.5–11.55), feeling less pleasure in doing things than before (OR = 6.28, 95% CI: 4.1–9.62), feeling anxious (OR = 6.13, 95% CI: 3.91–9.59) and feeling lonely (OR = 4.08, 95% CI: 2.53–6.58). Conclusion Impaired mental well-being can carry long-term consequences. We encourage policymakers to implement strategies to promote mental health during this pandemic situation. Special attention should be addressed to the youngest, those at risk for severe COVID-19 and those with government-imposed work restrictions.

Examining supervisor undermining through the job-demands resources framework

2021 ◽  
pp. 095148482110486
Author(s):  
Marilyn V Whitman ◽  
Russell A Matthews ◽  
Eric S Williams
Keyword(s):  
Employee Engagement ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Job Demands ◽  
Occupational Therapists ◽  
Healthcare Setting ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Negative Effects ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Convenience Sample

Introduction Supervisor undermining has recently gained increasing attention due to its negative effects on employee health and well-being. In the healthcare context, negative supervisor behaviors have been linked to unfavorable individual and organizational outcomes as well as medical errors and patient mortality. Our study, therefore, examines the influence that supervisor undermining behavior has on employee engagement and performance within a standard job stress framework. Methods Our sample consisted of occupational therapists, a health professions group who is growing in demand and importance in the U.S. and has unique job demands. Using an observational, cross-sectional study design, a convenience sample of 521 occupational therapists completed an online survey. A series of independent t-test and multiple-groups path analytic modeling was used. Results Participants who had a supervisor perceived as engaging in undermining behaviors reported lower levels of resources, higher levels of demands, less motivation, and more overload than those who did not perceive supervisor undermining. These participants were also less engaged and reported lower levels of performance. Conclusion Our results shed further light on the importance of supervisory behaviors specifically in a healthcare setting and the need for organizations to create an environment that promotes positive and productive workplace behaviors.

scholarly journals Increased Psychological Distress during COVID-19 and Quarantine in Ireland: A National Survey

2020 ◽  
Vol 9 (11) ◽  
pp. 3481 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tom Burke ◽  
Anna Berry ◽  
Laura K. Taylor ◽  
Owen Stafford ◽  
Eddie Murphy ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Psychological Distress ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Illness Perceptions ◽  
Psychological Impact ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Aging Parents ◽  
Symptoms Of Depression ◽  
Global Pandemic ◽  
Clinically Significant

Background: The emergence of the coronavirus pneumonia (COVID-19) resulted in a global pandemic. The psychological impact of an epidemic is multifaceted and acute, with long-term consequences. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey-based design was employed, assessing the psychological impact of COVID-19 on members of the Irish public during the quarantine period of COVID-19 in Ireland. Participants were invited to complete the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) retrospectively (prior to quarantine) and during the quarantine period, as well as measures of illness perceptions, well-being, and a bespoke measure (the Effects of COVID Questionnaire, ECQ), which assessed perceptions of COVID-related stresses associated with personal concerns, caring for children, caring for aging parents, as well as gratitude. Results: A total of n = 1620 entered the survey platform, with a total of n = 847 surveys completed by members of the Irish public. Entry into COVID-19 quarantine was associated with significant increases in clinically significant symptoms of depression, stress, and anxiety. The ECQ reliably assessed a range of COVID-19-related stresses and had large and significant correlations with the DASS-21. Conclusions: The COVID-19 quarantine was associated with stresses and significant increases in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress in a national Irish cohort. The public require increased access to mental health services to meet this increase in COVID-19-related psychological distress.

scholarly journals A survey to evaluate mental well being and coping strategies of adolescents during COVID-19 pandemic in Bangalore, India

2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Arna Bhattacharya ◽  
DR Jigyansa Ipsita Pattnaik ◽  
DR Suhas Chandran
Keyword(s):  
Psychological Distress ◽  
Coping Strategies ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Development Stage ◽  
Coping Mechanisms ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Brief Cope ◽  
And Coping ◽  
Mental Well Being

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant changes in the lifestyle of adolescents. Adolescence is a development stage of high vulnerability that can impact well-being later in life. Mental health plays an important role in one’s quality of life. Understanding coping mechanisms helps make a person safe and resilient from psychological distress. The present study aims to evaluate the mental well-being and coping strategies used by adolescents in India during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in a school in Bangalore, India via an online survey, circulated via the class teacher. Participants included 222 adolescents with ages ranging from 13 to 19. The DASS-21 and Brief COPE scales were used to assess mental well-being and coping mechanisms respectively. The questionnaire concluded with validated general lifestyle related questions. This included inquiring relationships between students and their families, friends, academic performance, social media consumption etc. The data was collected over a period of one month.  Results: In the DASS-21 scoring, 31.9% (n=69), 24.8% (n=55) and 5.4% (n=12) received scores indicating extremely severe depression, anxiety and stress respectively. Females were statistically found to be more depressed and anxious than males. Behavioural disengagement and self blame were commonly used coping mechanisms by those who were found to be psychologically distressed.  Conclusions: Psychological distress has been observed in adolescents in varying degrees during the COVID-19 pandemic. This should be addressed in order to prevent further distress. Keywords: adolescents, covid-19, mental well being, DASS-21, Brief COPE, depression, anxiety, stress

Dataset: Does loneliness, self-esteem and psychological distress correlate with problematic internet use? A Bangladeshi survey study

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. A. Mamun ◽  
Sharif Hossain ◽  
Mst. Sabrina Moonajilin ◽  
Mohammed Tanvir Masud ◽  
Jannatul Mawa Misti ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Psychological Distress ◽  
Internet Addiction ◽  
Internet Use ◽  
Global Mental Health ◽  
Self Esteem ◽  
Problematic Internet Use ◽  
Survey Study ◽  
Targeted Prevention ◽  
Cross Sectional

Background: Researchers have claimed that problematic internet use (PIU) and internet addiction (IA) is a global mental health problem. However, little research has addressed this issue in Bangladesh and no previous study has examined the relationship between PIU and potential psychological risk factors.Aim: The present study examined the prevalence of PIU and its associated risk factors including socio-demographic variables, internet use behaviors, and other psychological variables including loneliness, self-esteem, and psychological distress.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among Bangladeshi students (N = 605). Measures included the Internet Addiction Test (IAT), Rosenberg's SelfEsteem Scale, the UCLA Loneliness Scale, and the General Health Questionnaire.Results: Using a cut-off score of ≤60 (out of 100) on the IAT, the prevalence of PIU was 16.5% (n = 100). Regression analysis showed that sleep disturbance (more or less than 6-7 hours sleeping time), not using internet for academic purposes, and online chatting were risk factors for PIU. Loneliness and psychological distress were positively correlated with PIU, whereas self-esteem was negatively correlated.Conclusions: The present study highlights that PIU among Bangladeshi university students is an issue of concern and that targeted prevention is needed among emergingadults to help overcome the potentially negative effects of problematic internet use.

scholarly journals Assessment of Psychological Distress among General Population during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic Lockdown – An Indian Study

2021 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Lakshmi V Pandit ◽  
Neil M Salian ◽  
Aishwarya M Salian
Keyword(s):  
Psychological Distress ◽  
Mental Health Professionals ◽  
Psychological Health ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Descriptive Analysis ◽  
Institutional Care ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Psychological Well Being ◽  
Distress Scale

Objective: In December 2019, the world experienced spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome- Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Measures to contain spread included movement restrictions (Lockdown), quarantine for contacts, and institutional care for those infected. Fear of contracting the infection, mortality rates, experience of a lockdown, and economic concerns exposed people to great stress. On this background, the present study was conducted to assess psychological distress in these times. Methods: Consenting individuals comfortable to respond to an online survey were included as subjects. The study is cross-sectional in design; descriptive analysis and Chi-square tests were done. Socio demographic details were collected. Kessler 10 Psychological Distress Scale was administered to assess psychological well-being. Results Psychological distress was seen in 68% of the sample, ranging from mild-to-severe, across all age group, except in those below 18 years. Those aged 30–59 years experienced psychological distress before lockdown as well. Females experienced more distress than males, as well as those of the group with lower income. Conclusions: Responsibility of maintaining psychological well-being rests with each of us. Healthcare workers and mental health professionals need to identify and address psychological issues in the population during this period. Governmental organizations must take on the responsibility to educate the public through newspapers, television, and social media about the importance of maintaining positive psychological health and contribute to the same by honest journalism.

scholarly journals Post-traumatic growth during the COVID-19 pandemic in carers of children in Portugal and the UK: cross-sectional online survey

BJPsych Open ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Paul Stallard ◽  
Ana Isabel Pereira ◽  
Luísa Barros
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Negative Effects ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Positive Effects ◽  
Spiritual Change ◽  
Post Traumatic Growth ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Post Traumatic ◽  
The Uk

Background Although the negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health have attracted interest, little attention has focused on its positive effects and possible post-traumatic growth. Aims To assess anxiety, well-being and post-traumatic growth in carers of children aged 6–16 years in Portugal and the UK. Method A cross-sectional online survey of volunteers conducted at the peak of the first wave of COVID-19 during lockdown (1 May to 27 June 2020). Results A total of 385 caregivers (Portuguese, n = 185; UK, n = 200), predominantly mothers (n = 341, 88.6%), completed the survey. The majority were working exclusively from home (n = 271, 70.4%), almost half reported a reduction in income (n = 174, 45.2%), most children were home taught (n = 358, 93%), and 75 (19.5%) identified a family member with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection. In total, 341 caregivers (88.6%) identified positives arising from COVID-19, most commonly related to the post-traumatic growth domains of improved relationships, a greater appreciation of life, discovering and embracing new possibilities, and positive spiritual change. A comparison of those who did (n = 341) and did not (n = 34) report any positives found a significant difference in well-being scores (t373 = 2.24, P = 0.025) but not in anxiety scores (t373 = 0.75, P = 0.45). Conclusions Despite experiencing considerable adversity, examples of post-traumatic growth during the lockdown were common. Although the voluntary online nature of our survey is a limitation, our findings suggest that further research exploring post-traumatic growth following pandemics is warranted.

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