scholarly journals Wellbeing of Breastfeeding Women in Australia and New Zealand during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study

Nutrients ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (6) ◽  
pp. 1831
Author(s):  
Vanessa S. Sakalidis ◽  
Alethea Rea ◽  
Sharon L. Perrella ◽  
Jacki McEachran ◽  
Grace Collis ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
New Zealand ◽  
Perceived Stress ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Mental Wellbeing ◽  
Milk Supply ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Health Concerns ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Mental Health Concerns

During the COVID-19 pandemic, breastfeeding women have experienced restricted access to support, placing them at increased risk of mental health concerns and limited breastfeeding assistance. This study investigated the effect of the pandemic on feeding choices and maternal wellbeing amongst breastfeeding mothers living in Australian and New Zealand. We conducted a cross-sectional online survey that examined feeding methods, maternal mental wellbeing, worries, challenges, and positive experiences during the pandemic. Most women were exclusively breastfeeding (82%). Partial breastfeeding was associated with perceived low milk supply and longer pregnancy duration during the pandemic. Reduced mental health and wellbeing was associated with lower levels of family functioning, increased perceived stress, and perinatal anxiety. Longer pregnancy duration during the pandemic was associated with lower mental health wellbeing scores, while higher perceived stress scores were reported for regions with higher COVID-19 infection rates and women with perceived low milk supply. Women reported that the pandemic resulted in less pressure and more time for family bonding, while worries about the pandemic, family health, and parenting challenges were also cited. Mental health concerns of breastfeeding women appear to be exacerbated by COVID-19, highlighting a critical need for access to mental health and broader family support during the pandemic.

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.

scholarly journals Moral Distress and Perceived Community Views Are Associated with Mental Health Symptoms in Frontline Health Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (16) ◽  
pp. 8723 ◽  
Author(s):  
Natasha Smallwood ◽  
Amy Pascoe ◽  
Leila Karimi ◽  
Karen Willis
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Healthcare Workers ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Moral Distress ◽  
Resource Scarcity ◽  
Health Staff ◽  
Health Concerns ◽  
Targeted Interventions ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Mental Health Concerns

Background: Sudden changes in clinical practice and the altered ability to care for patients due to the COVID-19 pandemic have been associated with moral distress and mental health concerns in healthcare workers internationally. This study aimed to investigate the severity, prevalence, and predictors of moral distress experienced by Australian healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A nationwide, voluntary, anonymous, single time-point, online survey of self-identified frontline healthcare workers was conducted between 27th August and 23rd October 2020. Participants were recruited through health organisations, professional associations, or colleges, universities, government contacts, and national media. Results: 7846 complete responses were received from nurses (39.4%), doctors (31.1%), allied health staff (16.7%), or other roles (6.7%). Many participants reported moral distress related to resource scarcity (58.3%), wearing PPE (31.7%) limiting their ability to care for patients, exclusion of family going against their values (60.2%), and fear of letting co-workers down if they were infected (55.0%). Many personal and workplace predictors of moral distress were identified, with those working in certain frontline areas, metropolitan locations, and with prior mental health diagnoses at particular risk of distress. Moral distress was associated with increased risk of anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and burnout. Conversely, feeling appreciated by the community protected against these risks in healthcare workers. Conclusions: Safeguarding healthcare workforces during crises is important for both patient safety and workforce longevity. Targeted interventions are required to prevent or minimise moral distress and associated mental health concerns in healthcare workers during COVID-19 and other crises.

scholarly journals Moral Distress and Perceived Community Views Are Associated With Mental Health Symptoms in Frontline Health Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Natasha Smallwood ◽  
Amy Pascoe ◽  
Leila Karimi ◽  
Karen Willis
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Healthcare Workers ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Moral Distress ◽  
Resource Scarcity ◽  
Health Staff ◽  
Health Concerns ◽  
Targeted Interventions ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Mental Health Concerns

Background: Sudden changes in clinical practice and the altered ability to care for patients due to the COVID-19 pandemic have been associated with moral distress and mental health concerns in healthcare workers internationally. This study aimed to investigate the severity, prevalence, and predictors of moral distress experienced by Australian healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A nationwide, voluntary, anonymous, single time-point, online survey of self-identified frontline healthcare workers was conducted between 27th August and 23rd October 2020. Participants were recruited through health organisations, professional associations or colleges, universities, government contacts, and national media. Results: 7846 complete responses were received from nurses (39.4%), doctors (31.1%), allied health staff (16.7%) or other roles (6.7%). Many participants reported moral distress related to resource scarcity (58.3%), wearing PPE (31.7%) limiting their ability to care for patients, exclusion of family going against their values (60.2%), and fear of letting co-workers down if they were infected (55.0%). Many personal and workplace predictors of moral distress were identified, with those working in certain frontline areas, metropolitan locations, and with prior mental health diagnoses at particular risk of distress. Moral distress was associated with an increased risk of adverse mental health outcomes. Feeling appreciated by the community mitigated this risk in healthcare workers. Conclusions: Safeguarding healthcare workforces during crises is important for both patient safety and workforce longevity. Targeted interventions are required to prevent or minimise moral distress and associated mental health concerns in healthcare workers during COVID-19 and other crises.

scholarly journals Investigating the impact of COVID-19 on performance and image enhancing drug use

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Matthew Dunn ◽  
Timothy Piatkowski
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Substance Use ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
High Dose ◽  
Convenience Sample ◽  
Health Concerns ◽  
Exercise Habits ◽  
Mental Health Concerns ◽  
Image Enhancing ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Background Emerging research has suggested that the COVID-19 pandemic has had some impact on substance use patterns. The aim of the study was to conduct a rapid survey to assess the impact of COVID-19 on performance and image enhancing drug (PIED) use and training, and any subsequent negative physical or mental health outcomes. Methods During 2020, a convenience sample of 60 PIED consumers (mean age = 26.69; 68.3% located outside Australia) completed a quantitative anonymous online survey exploring how the coronavirus pandemic impacted patterns of PIED use and associated exercise habits. The survey was administered via the Qualtrics platform and distributed online through PIED forums as well as through the investigator's networks. Participants were asked about their PIED use and exercise habits prior to and during restricted movement ‘lockdowns’. Results Pre-COVID, the majority of the sample opted to ‘blast-cruise’ (an initial high dose, followed by a lower maintenance dose; 71.7%, n = 43). During lockdown, (45%, n = 27) reported a change in PIED use as a result of the restrictions. In light of health concerns during COVID-19, a majority of men (60%, n = 36) did not take any extra precautions relating to their PIED use. A subgroup of men ceased using PIEDs completely (16.7%, n = 10) with the majority (80%, n = 8) of that subgroup following post-cycle therapy (PCT) of some kind. Conclusions This study contributes to the emerging literature of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on substance use, specifically PIED use among men. The results suggest that the pandemic did influence the choice of PIEDs that participants consumed, although there was little disruption to patterns of exercise, an important aspect of PIED use. Of the men who did cease use completely, the majority reported little issue with PCT access; those who reported difficulty accessing PCT compounds indicated experience some mental health concerns related to ceasing their PIED use. Clinicians and those who come into contact with this group should be alert for any negative physical or mental health concerns resulting from disrupted or ceased PIED use.

‘You are Okay’: Effects of a support and educational program for children with mild intellectual disability and their parents with mental health concerns

2020 ◽  
pp. 174462952095376
Author(s):  
Ivon Riemersma ◽  
F Van Santvoort ◽  
KTM Van Doesum ◽  
CMH Hosman ◽  
JMAM Janssens ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Group Care ◽  
Behavioural Problems ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Emotional And Behavioural Problems ◽  
Health Concerns ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Intermediate Outcomes ◽  
Mental Health Concerns ◽  
Experimental Group

Background: Children with mild intellectual disabilities and emotional and behavioural problems whose parents have mental health concerns are at an increased risk of developing problems themselves. This study analysed the effectiveness of the ‘You are Okay’-program aimed to support these children and parents and to reduce the risk of problem development in children. Method: A quasi-experimental design was used to compare the experimental group (‘care as usual’ and ‘You are Okay’) with the control group (‘care as usual’) on the main outcome of emotional and behavioural problems and proposed intermediate outcomes. Results: Children in the experimental group reported a significant medium to large decrease in emotional and behavioural problems compared to the control group. The effects on the intermediate outcomes were non-significant. Conclusions: This specific study population comprising a vulnerable group of children seems to benefit from this specially adapted ‘You are Okay’-program. More research is necessary to draw further conclusions.

scholarly journals Examination of sleep health dimensions and their associations with perceived stress and health in a UK sample

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sarah F Allen ◽  
Umair Akram ◽  
Jason G Ellis
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Sleep Quality ◽  
Perceived Stress ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Reliability And Validity ◽  
Physical And Mental Health ◽  
Sleep Health ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Daytime Functioning ◽  
Principle Components Analysis

Abstract Background Sleep health is a relatively new multidimensional concept, however, there is no consensus on its underlying dimensions. A previous study examined potential indicators of sleep health using an aggregated sleep health measure. However, the psychometric properties are yet to be determined. The primary aim was to assess the factor structure, reliability and validity of this measure. A secondary aim was to explore the relationships with perceived stress, and physical and mental health. Methods A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 257 adults from the UK aged 18–65 (78.4% female, mean age = 29.39 [SD = 11.37]). Participants completed 13 Sleep health items, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Inventory, Insomnia Severity Scale, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Perceived Stress Scale and SF-12 Health Survey. Results The measure exhibited good internal consistency (α = 0.785) and construct validity as determined by associations with existing measures. Principle components analysis produced four factors e; sleep quality (α = 0.818), sleep adaptability (α = 0.917), sleep wellness (α = 0.621) and daytime functioning (α = 0.582). Adaptability (β = −241) was strongest predictor of perceived stress, and daytime functioning was strongest predictor of physical (β = 0.322) and mental health (β = 0.312). Conclusions Sleep health is a multidimensional construct comprising four distinct but related dimensions. The importance of sleep health in terms of perceived stress and mental and physical health is highlighted.

scholarly journals Prevalence and correlates of anxiety and depression in frontline healthcare workers treating people with COVID-19 in Bangladesh

2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Rafia Tasnim ◽  
Md. Safaet Hossain Sujan ◽  
Md. Saiful Islam ◽  
Asmaul Husna Ritu ◽  
Md. Abid Bin Siddique ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Healthcare Workers ◽  
Linear Regression Analysis ◽  
Depression Scale ◽  
Anxiety And Depression ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Online Questionnaire ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Health Concerns ◽  
Mental Health Concerns

Abstract Background Healthcare workers (HCWs) who are in the frontline during the COVID-19 pandemic are often under significant pressures that may predispose them to symptoms of poor mental health. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of anxiety and depression among HCWs and factors correlated with mental health concerns during the COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh. And, it also aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Bangla version of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted between July and August, 2020. A self-reported online questionnaire was utilized to collect data. The survey included questions concerning socio-demographic, lifestyle, and work setting, as well as the HADS. A confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and multiple linear regression analysis were performed. Results Data from 803 HCWs (50.7% male; mean age: 27.3 [SD = 6.9]; age range: 18-58 years) were included in the final analysis. The Bangla HADS was psychometrically sound, and demonstrated good internal consistency and reliability (α = 0.83), and excellent construct validity. Prevalence estimates of anxiety and depression were 69.5%, and 39.5%, respectively, for less severe symptomology (at least borderline abnormal), and 41.2% and 15.7% for more severe (at least abnormal) symptomology. Regression analyses with the total HADS score as a dependent variable revealed significant (p < 0.05) associations with female gender, moderate and poor health status, infrequent physical exercising, smoking, having had regrets about one’s profession because of the pandemic and associated experiences, not updating on the latest COVID-19-related research, experiencing discrimination in the workplace, and facing social problems due to working in a lab or hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusions Symptoms of anxiety and depression are prevalent among HCWs during the COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh. The findings suggest a need for screening for mental health concerns, and employing early intervention to help these individuals.

scholarly journals Prevalence of Depression, Anxiety, and Perceived Stress in Postpartum Mexican Women during the COVID-19 Lockdown

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (9) ◽  
pp. 4627
Author(s):  
Blanca Vianey Suárez-Rico ◽  
Guadalupe Estrada-Gutierrez ◽  
Maribel Sánchez-Martínez ◽  
Otilia Perichart-Perera ◽  
Carolina Rodríguez-Hernández ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Postpartum Depression ◽  
Perceived Stress ◽  
Trait Anxiety ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Depression Scale ◽  
Depression Symptoms ◽  
Mexican Women ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Prevalence Of Depression

The COVID-19 lockdown represents a new challenge for mental health researchers and clinical practitioners. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and perceived stress in postpartum Mexican women. The study included 293, 4–12-week postpartum women over the age of 18. The Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS), Trait-State Trait Anxiety Inventory (T-STAI), and Ten Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), which are all questionnaires validated for the Mexican population, were applied using a web-based online survey. Prevalence and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) of the maternal age was 29.9 ± 6.3 years; the EPDS score: 11 ± 6, T-STAI score: 41.7 ± 12.3, and PSS-10 score: 17.1 ± 7. The prevalence (95% CI) of the postpartum depression symptoms was 39.2% (34–45%), trait anxiety symptoms were found among 46.1% (32–43%) of the participants, and moderate and high perceived stress were in 58% (52–64) and 10.9% (7.8–15) of the participants, respectively. The prevalence of depressive symptoms, generalized anxiety, and perceived stress was higher among postpartum Mexican women during the COVID-19 outbreak than before the lockdown. Our findings highlight the importance of monitoring perinatal mental health during pandemics and the need to design effective psychologic interventions for these patients.

scholarly journals O029 Predictors of acute insomnia during the COVID-19 pandemic beyond perceived stress

2021 ◽  
Vol 2 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. A13-A13
Author(s):  
H Meaklim ◽  
P Varma ◽  
W Finck ◽  
M Junge ◽  
M Jackson
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Perceived Stress ◽  
Stress Reduction ◽  
Technology Use ◽  
Sleep Disturbances ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Lifestyle Changes ◽  
Contributing Factors ◽  
Use Of Technology ◽  
Increased Risk

Abstract Introduction Stress is a common precipitant of acute insomnia and likely contributed to increased reports of sleep disturbances during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, many other sleep and lifestyle changes may have also precipitated acute insomnia. This study aimed to clarify which factors, beyond perceived stress, contributed to the development of acute insomnia during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods The study consisted of 578 participants with acute insomnia and 741 good sleepers. Participants completed an online survey assessing insomnia symptoms, sleep, lifestyle changes and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify contributing factors to acute insomnia when controlling for demographic differences between groups. Results Perceived stress was a significant predictor of acute insomnia during the pandemic (p&lt;.001). However, after adjusting for stress, individuals who altered their sleep timing (p&lt;.001) or increased their use of technology before bed (p=.037) during the pandemic were at a 3-fold increased risk of acute insomnia. Other sleep factors associated with acute insomnia included dream changes (p=.001), sleep effort (p&lt;.001), and cognitive pre-sleep arousal (p&lt;.001). For pandemic factors, being very worried about contracting COVID-19 (p&lt;.002) and more stringent COVID-19 government restrictions (p&lt;.001) increased the risk. Anxiety (p&lt;.001) and depressive (p&lt;.001) symptoms, as well as the personality trait of agreeableness (p=.010), also contributed to acute insomnia. Discussion To reduce acute insomnia during the COVID-19 pandemic, public health messaging should promote stress reduction and mental health care, but also modifiable behaviours such as keeping consistent sleep patterns and reducing technology use before bed.

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