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Wu RY, Ge LF, Zhong BL. Media consumption patterns and depressive and anxiety symptoms in the Chinese general population during the COVID-19 outbreak. World J Psychiatry 2025; 15:104625. [DOI: 10.5498/wjp.v15.i4.104625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2024] [Revised: 01/30/2025] [Accepted: 02/21/2025] [Indexed: 03/25/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Examining patterns of media consumption and their associations with mental health outcomes in the general population during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has implications for public mental health in future pandemics.
AIM To investigate patterns of media consumption and their associations with depressive and anxiety symptoms among adults affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
METHODS A total of 8473 adults were recruited through snowball sampling for an online cross-sectional survey. The participants were asked to report the three media sources from which they most frequently acquired knowledge about COVID-19 from a checklist of nine media sources. Depression and anxiety were assessed with the Patient Health Questionnaire and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale, respectively. A two-step cluster analysis was performed to identify distinct clusters of consumption of media sources.
RESULTS Seven clusters were identified. The lowest prevalence of depression and anxiety (29.1% and 22.8%, respectively) was observed in cluster one, which was labeled “television and news portals and clients, minimal social media”. The highest prevalence of depression (43.1%) was observed in cluster three, labeled “WeChat, MicroBlog, and news portals, minimal traditional media”. The greatest prevalence of anxiety (35.8%) was observed in cluster seven, which was labeled “news clients and WeChat, no newspaper, radio, or news portals”. Relative to cluster one, a significantly elevated risk of depression and anxiety was found in clusters three, six (labeled “news portals and clients, WeChat, no newspaper and radio”) and seven (adjusted odds ratio = 1.28-1.46, P ≤ 0.011). Multiple logistic regression analyses revealed that the risk of COVID-19 infection and knowledge about COVID-19 partially explained the variations in the prevalence of depression and anxiety across the seven clusters.
CONCLUSION Communication policies should be designed to channel crucial pandemic-related information more effectively through traditional and digital media sources. Encouraging the use of these media and implementing regulatory policies to reduce misinformation and rumors on social media, may be effective in mitigating the risk of depression and anxiety among populations affected by the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui-Yao Wu
- Department of Psychiatry, The Affiliated Wuhan Mental Health Center, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan 430012, Hubei Province, China
| | - Lin-Feng Ge
- Department of Psychiatry, The Affiliated Wuhan Mental Health Center, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan 430012, Hubei Province, China
| | - Bao-Liang Zhong
- Department of Psychiatry, Wuhan Mental Health Center, Wuhan 430012, Hubei Province, China
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Wadman R, Walker L, Taylor O, Heron P, Newbronner E, Spanakis P, Crosland S, Peckham EJ. Patterns of Internet Use in People Diagnosed With Severe Mental Illness: Qualitative Interview Study. J Med Internet Res 2025; 27:e55072. [PMID: 40153777 DOI: 10.2196/55072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2025] [Indexed: 03/30/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with severe mental illness (SMI) face profound health inequalities, which may be exacerbated by increased rates of digital exclusion, especially as health services move to online provision. The activities that people carry out online can affect how they feel about the internet and may determine whether a person has a positive or negative experience when using the internet. This, in turn, could affect their mental health. To support people with SMI in using digital technology and the internet safely, it is important to understand the internet and digital technology use of those with SMI and their perceived positive or negative impact on their mental health. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore the internet and digital technology use of those with SMI, with particular focus on any association between greater use of the internet and poorer self-reported mental health. METHODS We carried out a qualitative interview study with 16 people with SMI. The sample was drawn from a wider investigation of the impact of the pandemic and its restrictions on the health and well-being of 367 people with SMI. We purposively sampled from the wider study based on age, gender, frequency of internet use, and self-reported mental health. The data were analyzed by 2 researchers using framework analysis. RESULTS Participant experiences fell into 3 broad categories: those who had a positive or neutral internet-based experience, those who had negative or difficult experiences, and low users or those with poor digital literacy. Those who had positive or neutral experiences could be broken down into 2 subcategories: first, those with positive or neutral experiences of the internet who were similar in terms of the activities participated in, feelings reported, and their concerns about the internet, and second, conscious users who were mindful of their interaction with the internet world. Participants with difficult experiences fell into 2 categories: those with worries and fears related to using the internet and those who had difficulty limiting their internet use. CONCLUSIONS People with SMI, similarly the general population, are expected to conduct more of their activities of daily living online in the postpandemic world. This research shows that most internet users with SMI have positive or neutral experiences. However, our typology reveals subgroups of the population with SMI for whom there is a relationship between internet use and difficult feelings. These subgroups can be identified by asking questions about online activities; time spent online; feelings, difficulties, or issues experienced; and use of gambling, dating, adult content, and conspiracy theory websites. Our findings point to further work in collaboration with people with lived experience to modify and test this typology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Wadman
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Lauren Walker
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Bangor University, Wrexham, United Kingdom
| | - Olivia Taylor
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Heron
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Suzanne Crosland
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Jane Peckham
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, United Kingdom
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Bendau A, Petzold MB, Ströhle A, Plag J. Viral Transmission? A Longitudinal Study of Media Use and Its Relation to Mental Strain During the First 2 Years of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Int J Behav Med 2024:10.1007/s12529-024-10293-3. [PMID: 38769221 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-024-10293-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In light of the dynamic COVID-19 pandemic, the exposure to pandemic-related media coverage may change over time and may be particularly relevant due to associations with psychopathological symptoms. The aims of the present study were to examine changes in media consumption over time and to analyze its prospective associations with psychological strain. METHOD The study uses a longitudinal observational design with ten periods of online data collection from March 2020 to April 2022 in an adult convenience sample (N = 8337) of the general population in Germany. RESULTS Our data revealed that the frequency and duration of pandemic-related media exposure as well as their subjective critical evaluation showed the highest levels at the beginning of the pandemic and peaked again in autumn 2020 and spring 2021. The primarily used media formats changed only slightly over time. The amount of media exposure at baseline was associated with more impairing pandemic-related anxiety 1 month, 1 year, and 2 years later. CONCLUSION Our results hint to potentially problematical and long-lasting associations of pandemic-related media consumption with mental strain. Our findings could serve as an orientation for recommendations, further research, and adequate interventions for a responsible dealing with media coverage. TRIAL REGISTRATION The authors have pre-registered this research at clinicaltrials.gov without an analysis plan; retrievable at: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04331106 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Bendau
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, CCM, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
- Department of Psychology, Institute for Mental Health and Behavioral Medicine, HMU Health and Medical University Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany.
| | | | - Andreas Ströhle
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, CCM, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jens Plag
- Faculty of Medicine, HMU Health and Medical University Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
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Sandhu S, Wilson E, Chattopadhyay K. Perceptions and Experiences of Undergraduate Students Regarding Social Media as a Tool for Government COVID-19-Related Messages: A Qualitative Study in Nottingham, UK. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6903. [PMID: 37887641 PMCID: PMC10606761 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20206903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
The rise of social media has given way to its use as a form of public health communication. Previous research has shown social media-based interventions to be effective, particularly for university students. Social media was used as a tool for public health messaging during the COVID-19 pandemic; however, there is a lack of information regarding the experiences and perceptions of such messaging and its effectiveness among UK university students. A qualitative study was conducted to explore the perceptions and experiences of public health messaging on social media during the pandemic, as well as the effects of such messaging. Fourteen semi-structured interviews with undergraduate students at the University of Nottingham, UK, were conducted. Five main themes were identified: effects of COVID-19 on university students, use of social media by university students, COVID-19 messaging on social media, effects of public health messaging on social media in compliance with COVID-19 guidelines, and improving public health messaging for the future. This study provides a novel insight into the experiences and perceptions of undergraduate students at a UK university regarding public health messaging on social media during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanvir Sandhu
- Nottingham Centre for Public Health and Epidemiology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (E.W.); (K.C.)
- Centre for Interprofessional Education and Learning, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Emma Wilson
- Nottingham Centre for Public Health and Epidemiology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (E.W.); (K.C.)
- Nottingham Centre for Evidence Based Healthcare, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Kaushik Chattopadhyay
- Nottingham Centre for Public Health and Epidemiology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (E.W.); (K.C.)
- Nottingham Centre for Evidence Based Healthcare, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
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Shpakou A, Krajewska-Kułak E, Cybulski M, Sokołowska D, Andryszczyk M, Kleszczewska E, Loginovich Y, Owoc J, Tarasov A, Skoblina N, Kowalczuk K. Anxiety, Stress Perception, and Coping Strategies among Students with COVID-19 Exposure. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4404. [PMID: 37445438 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Studying anxiety, stress, and coping strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic is crucial to mitigate the negative effects associated with infection risk and disease consequences. Objective: This study aimed to investigate anxiety levels, stress perception, and coping strategies in relation to the presence of illness. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted anonymously among 3950 university students from Poland (1822), Lithuania (232), and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad (1896). Due to the nearly identical application of anti-epidemic measures, the respondents were treated as a unified group. The State-trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Perceived Stress Scale 10 (PSS-10), and mini-COPE scale questionnaires were used. Statistical analysis included the Shapiro-Wilk test to check normality, the Mann-Whitney U test for comparative analysis between groups, the Pearson χ2 test for categorical data, and Spearman coefficients for correlations between variables. Results: A significant proportion of young adults in the community exhibited symptoms of anxiety and stress during the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the 1212 men and 2738 women surveyed, 348 (28.7%) and 1020 (37.3%) individuals, respectively, were diagnosed with COVID-19 according to clinical protocols. Prolonged disease duration and more severe residual symptoms correlated with higher self-reported anxiety levels. Conclusions: The level of anxiety and stress varied depending on the duration of the disease, significantly impacting the choice of coping strategies. Overall, students displayed a proactive approach to coping activities but tended to postpone important decisions. Seeking social support was a prevalent coping mechanism, although respondents who had COVID-19 showed higher levels of concern for their own emotions, a tendency to discharge emotions through alcohol or other substances (male), and a greater reliance on religion (female). The study provides data that may be useful in developing educational and health policies focused on the mental well-being of university students and potentially other social groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrei Shpakou
- Department of Integrated Medical Care, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-089 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Krajewska-Kułak
- Department of Integrated Medical Care, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-089 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Mateusz Cybulski
- Department of Integrated Medical Care, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-089 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Dorota Sokołowska
- Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Physical Education and Tourism, Eastern European University of Applied Sciences in Bialystok, 15-472 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Andryszczyk
- Department of Health Care, Prof. Edward F. Szczepanik State Vocational College, 16-402 Suwałki, Poland
| | - Ewa Kleszczewska
- Department of Health Care, Prof. Edward F. Szczepanik State Vocational College, 16-402 Suwałki, Poland
| | - Yelena Loginovich
- Department of Biology System and Genetic Research, Faculty of Animal Sciences, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, 44307 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Jakub Owoc
- Department of Gerontology, Public Health and Didactics, National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, 02-637 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Andrei Tarasov
- Department of Pediatrics and Preventive Medicine, Medical Institute, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, 236041 Kaliningrad, Russia
| | - Natalia Skoblina
- Department of Hygiene, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Krystyna Kowalczuk
- Department of Integrated Medical Care, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Bialystok, 15-089 Bialystok, Poland
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Deng J, Zhou F, Hou W, Heybati K, Lohit S, Abbas U, Silver Z, Wong CY, Chang O, Huang E, Zuo QK, Moskalyk M, Ramaraju HB, Heybati S. Prevalence of mental health symptoms in children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic: A meta-analysis. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2023; 1520:53-73. [PMID: 36537131 PMCID: PMC9880764 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.14947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and its accompanying infection control measures introduced sudden and significant disruptions to the lives of children and adolescents around the world. Given the potential for negative impacts on the mental health of youths as a result of these changes, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the prevalence of depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and sleep disturbances in children and adolescents during the pandemic. We searched major literature databases for relevant cross-sectional or longitudinal studies that included primary and secondary school students or children and adolescents ≤18 years of age. Prevalence values were extracted, logit-transformed, and pooled. Based on 191 included studies with 1,389,447 children and adolescents, we found the pooled prevalence of depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and sleep disturbances to be 31%, 31%, and 42%, respectively. Age, grade levels, education levels, gender, geographical regions, and electronics use were correlated with the prevalence of mental health symptoms. The prevalence of mental health symptoms also increased with time, although signs of recovery and stabilization were also observed. Overall, the results from this review demonstrate the need for increased mental health research, monitoring, and intervention for children and adolescents during the current and future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiawen Deng
- Temerty Faculty of MedicineUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Faculty of Health SciencesMcMaster UniversityHamiltonOntarioCanada
| | - Fangwen Zhou
- Faculty of Health SciencesMcMaster UniversityHamiltonOntarioCanada
| | - Wenteng Hou
- Faculty of Health SciencesMcMaster UniversityHamiltonOntarioCanada
- Schulich School of Medicine & DentistryUniversity of Western OntarioLondonOntarioCanada
| | - Kiyan Heybati
- Faculty of Health SciencesMcMaster UniversityHamiltonOntarioCanada
- Mayo Clinic Alix School of MedicineMayo Clinic (Rochester)RochesterMinnesotaUSA
| | - Simran Lohit
- Faculty of Health SciencesMcMaster UniversityHamiltonOntarioCanada
| | - Umaima Abbas
- Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry (Windsor Campus)University of Western OntarioWindsorOntarioCanada
| | - Zachary Silver
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of ScienceCarleton UniversityOttawaOntarioCanada
| | - Chi Yi Wong
- Faculty of Health SciencesMcMaster UniversityHamiltonOntarioCanada
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine (Waterloo Regional Campus)McMaster UniversityKitchenerOntarioCanada
| | - Oswin Chang
- Faculty of Health SciencesMcMaster UniversityHamiltonOntarioCanada
- Physician Assistant Education Program, Faculty of Health SciencesMcMaster UniversityHamiltonOntarioCanada
| | - Emma Huang
- Faculty of Health SciencesMcMaster UniversityHamiltonOntarioCanada
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity of OttawaOttawaOntarioCanada
| | - Qi Kang Zuo
- Department of AnesthesiologyRutgers New Jersey Medical SchoolNewarkNew JerseyUSA
- Faculty of ScienceMcGill UniversityMontréalQuebecCanada
| | - Myron Moskalyk
- Faculty of Health SciencesMcMaster UniversityHamiltonOntarioCanada
| | - Harikrishnaa Ba Ramaraju
- Virginia Commonwealth University School of MedicineVirginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmondVirginiaUSA
| | - Shayan Heybati
- Faculty of Health SciencesQueen's UniversityKingstonOntarioCanada
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Malm EK, Oti-Boadi M, Dey NEY, Adade AE, Ocansey G. Social media use, and fear of COVID-19 among Ghanaian university students: the moderating role of gender. BMC Psychol 2022; 10:208. [PMID: 36038940 PMCID: PMC9421622 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-022-00915-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background COVID-19 and its associated social restrictive measures and lockdowns exacerbated the use of social media and other technological facilities for communication. This study, therefore, examined Ghanaian students’ social media use and its relationship with fear of COVID-19, paying close attention to the moderating role of gender.
Methods A correlational online survey was used to collect data from a purposive sample of 209 University students in June and July 2020. Participants completed online measures on social media use and fear of COVID-19. Statistical analyses including independent-t test, Pearson correlation test and moderation analysis in PROCESS were conducted using SPSS v.24.
Results Findings revealed that the mean scores of social media use and fear of COVID-19 did not statistically differ by gender. However, social media use had a small and positive association with fear of COVID-19 (r = 0.18, p = 0.009). Furthermore, gender was a significant moderator of the relationship between social media use and fear of COVID-19. Specifically, the increased use of social media resulted in greater experiences of fearing COVID-19 for females (B = − 0.24, p = 0.034) compared to males. Conclusion Although social media was useful in connecting with people and accessing pandemic-related information, our findings clearly suggest that overuse or over-engagement with social media was problematic, especially for females. Aside from developing interventions to reduce students’ fears of COVID-19, appropriate usage of social media should be advocated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther K Malm
- Department of Psychology, Murray State University, Murray, KY, USA
| | - Mabel Oti-Boadi
- Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
| | | | | | - Godwin Ocansey
- Department of Psychology, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
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Zhang Y, Hou Z, Wu S, Li X, Hao M, Wu X. The relationship between internet addiction and aggressive behavior among adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic: Anxiety as a mediator. Acta Psychol (Amst) 2022; 227:103612. [PMID: 35598380 PMCID: PMC9091340 DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2022.103612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges for adolescents, who tended to experience more emotional instability, impulsivity, and aggressive behavior driven by the fear of infection and the uncertainty of network information. In the present study, we investigated the relationship between Internet addiction and aggressive behavior, and the mediating effects of depression and anxiety. There were differences in Internete addiction and aggressive behavior in gender, thus the moderating role of gender between them were explored. A total of 1148 middle school students were invited to complete the Buss Perry Aggression Questionnaire, the Internet Addition Scale, the Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS), and the Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) separately. The results suggested that 1) there was a significant positive correlation between Internet addiction and aggressive behavior; 2) anxiety, but not depression, mediated the effect of Internet addiction on aggressive behavior; 3) gender did not moderate the effect of Internet addiction on aggressive behavior. The practical implication of the current findings on boosting adolescents' mental health was discussed and further suggestions were provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Zhang
- Department of Psychology, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhe Hou
- School of Education, University of Leeds MA educations, UK
| | - Song Wu
- Fenyang Middle School, Shanxi, China
| | - Xiaoqian Li
- Department of Psychology, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mengyao Hao
- Department of Psychology, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaofei Wu
- Department of Psychology, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, China,Corresponding author at: Department of Psychology, Hangzhou Normal University, No. 2318 Yuhang Tang Road, Yuhang District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Alhazmi RA, Alghadeer S, Al-Arifi MN, Alamer AA, Mubarak AM, Alwhaibi A, Alfayez R, Alsubaie S. Prevalence and Factors of Anxiety During the Coronavirus-2019 Pandemic Among Teachers in Saudi Arabia. Front Public Health 2022; 10:827238. [PMID: 35387186 PMCID: PMC8978600 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.827238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Teachers play a central role in successful education. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, regular in-person attendance in classes at all levels of education has been disrupted for more than 1 year in many countries. These lockdowns, which include the discontinuation of in person learning at schools and universities has presented a significant challenge for teachers to adapt to online teaching. Given this rapid format change, occupational anxiety levels among educators has increased. Objective The primary objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of anxiety among teachers in Saudi Arabia. A secondary objective was to explore characteristics of teachers associated with the level of anxiety level during the period of lockdown. Methods An anonymous, online cross-sectional study was carried for 3 months (February 2021 through April 2021). The questionnaire consisted of four sections and included the Generalized Anxiety Disorder instrument (GAD-7). Chi-square tests were completed for categorical comparisons while binary logistic regressions were used for associative relationship exploration. The IRB at King Saudi University Medical City, Saudi Arabia approved this study. Results A total of 742 respondents completed the survey yielding an anxiety prevalence of 58.2 % among teachers. Medium degree of statistically significant differences identified as marital status (p = 0.046). women had higher anxiety (65.3%) than men (34.7%) but gender with anxiety was low degree of statistical significance compared with non-anxiety status (p = 0.697). The odds of anxiety among middle teachers was twice (OR = 2.01) as high as the odds of anxiety among other levels of teacher (p = 0.01, 95% CI 0.94–4.26). Conclusions This study identified that many teachers experienced anxiety during the lockdown, especially women and middle school teachers. Future studies should identify contributing factors to estimate the magnitude of the exposure to anxiety between different types of teachers to help establish better preventive measures based on the workplace environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riyadh A Alhazmi
- Department of Emergency Medical Services, Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz College for Emergency Medical Services, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sultan Alghadeer
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy - King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed N Al-Arifi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy - King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asma A Alamer
- Department of Curricula and Teaching Methods, College of Education, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah M Mubarak
- Department of Basic Science, Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz College for Emergency Medical Services, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrahman Alwhaibi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy - King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Raghad Alfayez
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy - King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sara Alsubaie
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy - King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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10
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Canal-Rivero M, Armesto-Luque L, Rubio-García A, Rodriguez-Menéndez G, Garrido-Torres N, Capitán L, Luque A, Crespo-Facorro B, Ruiz-Veguilla M. Trauma and stressor-related disorders among health care workers during COVID-19 pandemic and the role of the gender: A prospective longitudinal survey. J Affect Disord 2022; 302:110-122. [PMID: 35032507 PMCID: PMC8755453 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Health-care Workers (HCW) are facing a critical situation caused by Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) which could impact on their mental health status. In addition, HCW women have been identified as a group at high-risk of developing psychological distress, although no previous longitudinal studies have explored this issue in a sample of HCW. AIMS The main aim of the study was to observe the temporal pattern of the stress reactions among HCW as well as to explore its potential predictors of poor outcome. Moreover, we analyzed possible gender differences in stress reaction responses. METHODS One thousand for hundred and thirty-two HCW responded an online survey including sociodemographic, clinical, and psychometric tests in May 2020 while 251 HCW answered in November 2020. Bivariate and multivariate analyses as well as repeated measures analyses were used to achieve the aims of the study. RESULTS The proportion of HCW who fulfilled Acute Stress Disorder criteria did not change over the follow-up period, although we observed a significant improvement in stress reactions responses among HCW. Proximal factors were the most salient predictors of traumatic reactions. Repeated analyses revealed significant gender differences in acute stress reactions. In addition, women showed significantly greater improvement than men in re-experiencing the traumatic event and hyperarousal dimensions. CONCLUSIONS Monitoring of working conditions as well as emotional reactions in HCW facing major disasters should be carried out to prevent the development of peritraumatic stress reactions. In addition, HCW women are characterized by a different pattern of progression in stress responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Canal-Rivero
- Mental Health Unit, Virgen del Rocio University Hospital, Seville, Spain; Translational Psychiatry Group, Seville Biomedical Research Institute (IBiS), Seville, Spain; Spanish Network for Research in Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Ana Rubio-García
- Mental Health Unit, Virgen del Rocio University Hospital, Seville, Spain; Translational Psychiatry Group, Seville Biomedical Research Institute (IBiS), Seville, Spain
| | | | - Nathalia Garrido-Torres
- Mental Health Unit, Virgen del Rocio University Hospital, Seville, Spain; Translational Psychiatry Group, Seville Biomedical Research Institute (IBiS), Seville, Spain; Spanish Network for Research in Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Capitán
- Mental Health Unit, Virgen del Rocio University Hospital, Seville, Spain
| | - Asunción Luque
- Mental Health Unit, Virgen del Rocio University Hospital, Seville, Spain
| | - Benedicto Crespo-Facorro
- Mental Health Unit, Virgen del Rocio University Hospital, Seville, Spain; Translational Psychiatry Group, Seville Biomedical Research Institute (IBiS), Seville, Spain; Spanish Network for Research in Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain; Department of Psychiatry, University of Seville, Seville, Spain.
| | - Miguel Ruiz-Veguilla
- Mental Health Unit, Virgen del Rocio University Hospital, Seville, Spain; Translational Psychiatry Group, Seville Biomedical Research Institute (IBiS), Seville, Spain; Spanish Network for Research in Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain; Department of Psychiatry, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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11
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Hung SC, Yang SC, Luo YF. New Media Literacy, Health Status, Anxiety, and Preventative Behaviors Related to COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Study in Taiwan. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:11247. [PMID: 34769764 PMCID: PMC8582977 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Internet media may exacerbate public confusion and anxiety about COVID-19. New media health literacy (NMHL) is considered to play a protective role against health-related misinformation from the media for individuals to maintain their health. The current study aims to examine the relationship among Taiwanese adults' NMHL, health status, anxiety, and prevention behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic. This cross-sectional study was conducted through an online survey, and 342 responses were included in the analysis. The survey tools include Health Status, COVID-19-Related New Media Health Literacy, COVID-19 Anxiety, and COVID-19 Preventive Behaviors. The research showed that both functional and critical prosuming literacy had positive relationships with health status. Functional consumption literacy had a weak negative correlation with COVID-19 anxiety. Furthermore, critical consumption literacy had a positive relationship with COVID-19 preventive behaviors. Therefore, individuals' health, anxiety, and prevention behaviors are affected by different aspects of COVID-19-related new media health literacy. Compared to their consuming media literacy, Taiwanese adults have insufficient prosuming media literacy in regard to COVID-19 health issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Chieh Hung
- The Intelligent Electronic Commerce Research Center, Institute of Education, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan;
- Department of Information and Communication, Southern Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Tainan 710301, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Ching Yang
- The Intelligent Electronic Commerce Research Center, Institute of Education, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan;
| | - Yi-Fang Luo
- Center for Teaching and Learning Development, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 805301, Taiwan
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12
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Tronco Hernández YA, Parente F, Faghy MA, Roscoe CMP, Maratos FA. Influence of the COVID-19 Lockdown on the Physical and Psychosocial Well-being and Work Productivity of Remote Workers: Cross-sectional Correlational Study. JMIRX MED 2021; 2:e30708. [PMID: 34898665 PMCID: PMC8641476 DOI: 10.2196/30708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lockdowns imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic have impacted the living and working habits of millions of people, with potentially important implications for their physical, mental, and social well-being. OBJECTIVE The primary objective of this study was to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on remote workers who were not directly affected by COVID-19. METHODS This was a correlational cross-sectional study (with an additional qualitative component) of 184 remote workers surveyed during the first COVID-19 lockdown in the United Kingdom. Standard measures of mental health (Kessler-6 Distress Scale), productivity (Brief Instrument to Assess Workers' Productivity During a Working Day), and physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire) were used, and respondents were further surveyed on changes to their dietary, exercise, smoking, drinking, and socialization habits to produce a well-being change index. RESULTS The results revealed associations between sedentary behavior and poorer mental health (τ b=0.14) and between poorer mental health and low work productivity (τ b=-0.39). However, both positive and negative lifestyle changes were reported; a self-reported increase in well-being (with respect to diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol consumption, and socialization) since the start of the pandemic was associated with both better mental health (τ b=-0.14) and better work productivity (τ b=0.14). Of note, among respondents without a mental health diagnosis (137/184, 74.4%), we observed rates of moderate (76/137, 55.5%) and severe (17/137, 12.4%) psychological distress, which were markedly higher than those reported in large prepandemic studies; moreover, 70.1% (129/184) of our respondents reported more sedentary behavior, 41% (69/168) increased their alcohol consumption, and 38.6% (71/184) increased their overall food intake. However, 46% (75/163), 44.8% (39/87) and 51.8% (57/110) of respondents reported spending more time walking and engaging in more moderate and vigorous exercise, respectively. Qualitative analysis revealed many positive adaptations to lockdowns (eg, decreased commuting expenses, flexibility) but also a number of structural obstacles to remote working (eg, lack of support and high expectations from employers, childcare duties). CONCLUSIONS These findings may be of practical importance for policy makers and employers in a world in which work involves long-term remote or hybrid employment arrangements; strategies to promote more sustainable remote working are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fabio Parente
- School of Psychology College of Health, Psychology and Social Care University of Derby Derby United Kingdom
| | - Mark A Faghy
- School of Human Sciences College of Science and Engineering University of Derby Derby United Kingdom
| | - Clare M P Roscoe
- School of Human Sciences College of Science and Engineering University of Derby Derby United Kingdom
| | - Frances A Maratos
- School of Psychology College of Health, Psychology and Social Care University of Derby Derby United Kingdom
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13
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Spanakis P, Heron P, Walker L, Crosland S, Wadman R, Newbronner E, Johnston G, Gilbody S, Peckham E. Use of the Internet and Digital Devices Among People With Severe Mental Ill Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic Restrictions. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:732735. [PMID: 34630183 PMCID: PMC8499705 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.732735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic have led to everyday reliance on digitalisation of life, including access to health care services. People with severe mental ill health (SMI-e.g., bipolar or psychosis spectrum disorders) are at greater risk for digital exclusion and it is unknown to what extent they adapted to online service delivery. This study explored use of the Internet and digital devices during the pandemic restrictions and its association with physical and mental health changes. Methods: Three hundred sixty seven adults with an SMI diagnosis completed a survey (online or offline) and provided information on access to Internet connexion and devices, internet knowledge, online activities, and barriers to using the Internet. They also self-reported changes in mental and physical health since the beginning of the pandemic restrictions. Results: During the pandemic restrictions 61.6% were limited or non-users of the Internet. The majority had access to the Internet and digital devices but around half reported knowledge deficits. Most common activities were accessing information and entertainment (88.9%), staying in touch with friends and families (84.8%), and purchasing goods (other than food) (84.3%). Most common barriers were finding the Internet "not interesting" (28.3%) or "too difficult" (27.9%), as well as "security concerns" (22.1-24.3%). Using the Internet "a lot" (vs. "just a bit or not at all") during the pandemic was associated with younger age (18-30: Adj ORs 4.76; 31-45: 6.39; Ps < 0.001; vs. 66+), having a diagnosis of bipolar disorder (compared to psychosis; Adj OR = 3.88, P < 0.001), or reporting a decline in mental health (compared to no decline; Adj OR = 1.92, P = 0.01). Conclusion: Most people with SMI were limited or non-users of the Internet during the pandemic, which seems to be mainly attributable to lack of interest and skills, rather than lack of devices or connectivity. Older adults with psychosis should be the focus of interventions to support digital engagement in people with SMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Spanakis
- Mental Health and Addiction Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Heron
- Mental Health and Addiction Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Lauren Walker
- Mental Health and Addiction Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Suzanne Crosland
- Mental Health and Addiction Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Wadman
- Mental Health and Addiction Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth Newbronner
- Mental Health and Addiction Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | | | - Simon Gilbody
- Mental Health and Addiction Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Peckham
- Mental Health and Addiction Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, United Kingdom
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14
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A Cross-Sectional Examination of the Mental Wellbeing, Coping and Quality of Working Life in Health and Social Care Workers in the UK at Two Time Points of the COVID-19 Pandemic. EPIDEMIOLGIA (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 2:227-242. [PMID: 36417222 PMCID: PMC9620915 DOI: 10.3390/epidemiologia2030017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve around the world, it is important to examine its effect on societies and individuals, including health and social care (HSC) professionals. The aim of this study was to compare cross-sectional data collected from HSC staff in the UK at two time points during the COVID-19 pandemic: Phase 1 (May-July 2020) and Phase 2 (November 2020-January 2021). The HSC staff surveyed consisted of nurses, midwives, allied health professionals, social care workers and social workers from across the UK (England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland). Multiple regressions were used to examine the effects of different coping strategies and demographic and work-related variables on participants' wellbeing and quality of working life to see how and if the predictors changed over time. An additional multiple regression was used to directly examine the effects of time (Phase 1 vs. Phase 2) on the outcome variables. Findings suggested that both wellbeing and quality of working life deteriorated from Phase 1 to Phase 2. The results have the potential to inform interventions for HSC staff during future waves of the COVID-19 pandemic, other infectious outbreaks or even other circumstances putting long-term pressures on HSC systems.
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