Journal Description
Psychiatry International
Psychiatry International
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on psychiatric research and practice, published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within ESCI (Web of Science), Scopus, EBSCO, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 40.6 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 4.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
Latest Articles
Effects of a One-Day Experiential Sheep-Rearing Experience on Motivation, Anxiety, and Frontal Lobe Brain Activity in Patients with Chronic Psychiatric Disorders: A Crossover Pilot Study
Psychiatry Int. 2024, 5(2), 134-153; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint5020010 - 26 Mar 2024
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The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a one-day sheep-rearing experience on motivation and anxiety levels in patients with chronic mental illness. The study assessed changes in oxytocin and cortisol levels and brain activity in the prefrontal cortex, which
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The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a one-day sheep-rearing experience on motivation and anxiety levels in patients with chronic mental illness. The study assessed changes in oxytocin and cortisol levels and brain activity in the prefrontal cortex, which is known to be associated with emotion and motivation. The study employed a non-randomized controlled trial design, with participants receiving both an intervention day (sheep rearing) and a control day (usual psychiatric day care) in a crossover fashion. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants. The intervention day consisted of hands-on sheep rearing activities, while the control day consisted of general activities available at the psychiatric day care center. Results showed that the sheep-raising experience had an equal effect on motivation and increased mean oxytocin levels. In addition, significantly more activity was observed in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) region of the brain compared to typical psychiatric daycare activities (p < 0.032, p < 0.043). Participants tended to have increased oxytocin levels after sheep rearing, and the activation of the DLPFC has not previously been observed in animal intervention studies. These are new findings in psychiatric occupational therapy that may have effects on social cognition and interpersonal relationships in patients with chronic mental illness.
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Open AccessArticle
A Cross-Sectional Study of How Harm Avoidance, Incompleteness and Intolerance of Uncertainty Contribute to Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder in University Students
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Anna Nisyraiou, Meropi Simou and Gregoris Simos
Psychiatry Int. 2024, 5(1), 121-133; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint5010009 - 06 Mar 2024
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Research suggests that certain cognitive factors increase the likelihood of developing and maintaining obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). Such factors that are often associated with OCD are harm avoidance (HA), incompleteness (INC), and intolerance of uncertainty (IU). The present study aimed to examine the associations
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Research suggests that certain cognitive factors increase the likelihood of developing and maintaining obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). Such factors that are often associated with OCD are harm avoidance (HA), incompleteness (INC), and intolerance of uncertainty (IU). The present study aimed to examine the associations of intolerance of uncertainty, incompleteness, and harm avoidance with dimensions of obsessive–compulsive symptoms. Participants were 1128 university students (Mage = 19.42 St.d. = 2.02). Results showed that all subscales of the OCI-R correlated significantly with HA, INC, and IU, confirming the findings of previous studies. HA and INC appear to predict OC symptoms in a significant way. IU appears to correlate and improve the models, although to a lesser degree. The present findings contribute to our better understanding of the relationship between OCD symptoms and underlying cognitive variables and the nature of OCD heterogeneity.
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Open AccessArticle
Quality of Life in Alcohol Use Disorder: Exploration of Predictive Factors in a Cross-Sectional Study
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Prabhoo Dayal and Gauri S. Kaloiya
Psychiatry Int. 2024, 5(1), 101-120; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint5010008 - 04 Mar 2024
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Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic and relapsing biopsychosocial condition that leads to various medical, psychological, social, economic, and personal issues. This study evaluated how sociodemographic characteristics, clinical variables, impulsivity dimensions, and cognitive functions were associated with quality of life (QoL) among
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Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic and relapsing biopsychosocial condition that leads to various medical, psychological, social, economic, and personal issues. This study evaluated how sociodemographic characteristics, clinical variables, impulsivity dimensions, and cognitive functions were associated with quality of life (QoL) among patients seeking treatment for AUD. Furthermore, the study investigated the predictors of QoL among patients seeking treatment for AUD based on attention, cognitive instability, motor impulsiveness, perseverance, and self-control dimensions of trait impulsivity. This study also investigated the potential mediating effect of anxiety and alcohol use severity in this relationship. After an initial assessment, the participants underwent comprehensive evaluations, including sociodemographic data, clinical history, and QoL domains. The evaluations also covered AUD severity, impulsivity dimensions, cognitive functions, craving intensity, depression, anxiety, and self-efficacy. Multiple linear regression analyses were employed to identify associations between independent variables and QoL. The attention dimension of impulsivity and anxiety symptoms significantly predicted physical health domain of QoL. The self-control dimension and severity of alcohol use disorder predicted psychological domain of QoL. The indirect effect of attention dimension on physical health was significant [effect = −1.082, 95% CI (−2.008, −0.3598)]. The significance of impulsivity in influencing QoL for individuals with AUD has profound clinical implications. These findings underscore the importance of addressing anxiety and impulsivity in managing AUD, given their considerable impact, particularly on QoL, ultimately shaping treatment outcomes.
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Open AccessArticle
Portuguese Validation of a Reduced Version of the IAT (Internet Addiction Test) Scale—Youth Version
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Ivone Patrão, Inês Borges, Patrícia Sobral and Ana Moreira
Psychiatry Int. 2024, 5(1), 89-100; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint5010007 - 22 Feb 2024
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This study adapted and assessed a shortened version of the IAT (Internet Addiction Test) scale completed by young people aged 12 years and older regarding their online behaviors and risk of online addiction. The psychometric qualities of the reduced version (Screening IAT—youth) are
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This study adapted and assessed a shortened version of the IAT (Internet Addiction Test) scale completed by young people aged 12 years and older regarding their online behaviors and risk of online addiction. The psychometric qualities of the reduced version (Screening IAT—youth) are presented in order to validate the use of this version in the early detection of online addiction. The total sample was composed of 3021 participants that were 55.9% female and 44.1% male, with a mean age of x = 15 years (σ = 3.028), attending junior high school (56.2%), high school (37.8%), and college (5.9%). The procedure included a factorial analysis in which the total sample was randomly divided into three samples. An exploratory factor analysis was performed with one part of the sample, and a confirmatory factor analysis was performed with the other parts, assessing internal consistency, construct reliability, and discriminant validity. The results indicate that this reduced version of the IAT for young people has good psychometric qualities and that it can be applied in research and clinical settings. With this version and the parent–teacher version, there is a direct contribution to a tripartite assessment of internet addiction risk.
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Open AccessReview
Bone Health in Mood Disorders: A Narrative Review about Clinical and Biological Connections
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Antonella Maria Pia De Novellis, Giulia Ferrazzi, Gian Maria Galeazzi, Mattia Marchi, Matteo Meloni, Luca Pingani and Silvia Ferrari
Psychiatry Int. 2024, 5(1), 74-88; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint5010006 - 18 Feb 2024
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Evidence about bone health in people affected by psychiatric disorders is limited. This narrative review aims to highlight what is known, up to the present time, about clinical connections between bone health and psychiatric disorders, particularly depressive disorders (DD) and bipolar disorders (BD),
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Evidence about bone health in people affected by psychiatric disorders is limited. This narrative review aims to highlight what is known, up to the present time, about clinical connections between bone health and psychiatric disorders, particularly depressive disorders (DD) and bipolar disorders (BD), in terms of common biological pathways. Besides inflammation, we focused on two molecules of growing interest: neuropeptide Y (NPY) and the neuro-hormone melatonin. Also, the role of psychoactive drugs on bone tissue was explored. For the preparation of this narrative review, the scientific literature of the most recent 7 years from PubMed, Springer Nature, Science Direct (Elsevier), Wiley Online, ResearchGate, and Google Scholar databases was analyzed. Reviewed evidence reveals that people diagnosed with BD or DD have an increased risk of both fractures and osteoporosis; NPY reduces bone loss induced by longer periods of depression and “buffers” psychological stress effects on bone health. MLT shows beneficial effects in osteoporosis and bone healing. Lithium, a mood stabilizer, shows potential bone-protective activity, while antipsychotic and antidepressant treatments may increase the risk of bone tissue damage, though further investigation is needed.
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Open AccessReview
Neuropsychological Insights into Coping Strategies: Integrating Theory and Practice in Clinical and Therapeutic Contexts
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Maria Theodoratou and Marios Argyrides
Psychiatry Int. 2024, 5(1), 53-73; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint5010005 - 04 Feb 2024
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The primary focus of this review is to rigorously explore the application and significance of coping strategies within the domains of clinical psychology and neuropsychology. These consist of a variety of techniques, behaviors, and cognitive interventions, and their critical role in reinforcing resilience
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The primary focus of this review is to rigorously explore the application and significance of coping strategies within the domains of clinical psychology and neuropsychology. These consist of a variety of techniques, behaviors, and cognitive interventions, and their critical role in reinforcing resilience and facilitating adaptive responses to stressors has been highlighted. This study explores the complex neuropsychological links between the brain’s stress pathways and the use of coping mechanisms. The neural aspects of stress, and how they can be influenced by adaptive strategies, are detailed, illustrating the profound impact that these coping mechanisms have at a neurobiological level. Delving into the neuropsychological underpinnings, this review will shed light on how stress response pathways in the brain interact with, and can be modulated by, various coping strategies. These mechanisms are particularly salient when addressing the multifaceted challenges that are faced by individuals with neuropsychological or mental health issues. While these strategies span a broad spectrum, from introspection and cognitive reframing to behavioral activation and social support seeking, their integration and application remain diverse within clinical contexts. This review endeavors to elucidate the theoretical underpinnings of these strategies, their empirical support, and their practical implications within therapeutic interventions. Furthermore, the intricate interplay between individualized coping techniques and structured therapeutic methodologies will be examined, emphasizing the potential for a holistic treatment paradigm, thereby enhancing therapeutic outcomes and fostering individual resilience.
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Open AccessArticle
Violence and Child Mental Health Outcomes in Iraq: Mapping Vulnerable Areas
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Ruaa Al Juboori
Psychiatry Int. 2024, 5(1), 39-52; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint5010004 - 22 Jan 2024
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Few studies have been conducted in Iraq regarding the association of violence at multiple ecological levels and child mental health outcomes. Therefore, the study objectives were (1) to conduct a nationwide analysis to explore violence at multiple socio-ecological levels and children’s mental health
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Few studies have been conducted in Iraq regarding the association of violence at multiple ecological levels and child mental health outcomes. Therefore, the study objectives were (1) to conduct a nationwide analysis to explore violence at multiple socio-ecological levels and children’s mental health outcomes, and (2) to identify the most vulnerable children according to the spatial distribution of Iraqi governorates. This cross-sectional study used the 2018 Iraq Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS 6), which included 12,358 mothers or caretakers who provided complete information regarding their parenting and disciplinary practices for their children between the ages of 5 and 14. Logistic regression was employed to examine the factors associated with children’s depression and anxiety. This study showed that 22% of children had depression, while 38% experienced anxiety. Notably, children residing in Iraq’s south/central regions, specifically in areas, like Nainawa, Najaf, and Basrah, exhibited notably higher anxiety and depression. The research also showed that living in unsafe neighborhoods, women’s acceptance of domestic violence, and the use of severe physical punishment as corporal discipline were all associated with the development of anxiety and depression. This study addresses the scarcity of information on children’s mental health outcomes in Iraq at national and governorate levels, emphasizing the need for urgent national-level policy discussions to achieve key Sustainable Development Goals related to ending all forms of violence against children by 2030.
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Open AccessArticle
Exploring the Link between Mindful Eating, Instagram Engagement, and Eating Disorders: A Focus on Orthorexia Nervosa
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Efstratios Christodoulou, Verra Markopoulou and Antonios E. Koutelidakis
Psychiatry Int. 2024, 5(1), 27-38; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint5010003 - 05 Jan 2024
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Mindful eating is an increasingly popular dietary practice that may mediate the symptomatology of eating disorders. Orthorexia nervosa is a recently proposed eating disorder characterized by excessive concern for body image, healthy eating, and calorie control. The purpose of this study is to
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Mindful eating is an increasingly popular dietary practice that may mediate the symptomatology of eating disorders. Orthorexia nervosa is a recently proposed eating disorder characterized by excessive concern for body image, healthy eating, and calorie control. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between mindful eating, Instagram engagement, and eating disorders, with a focus on orthorexia nervosa. This cross-sectional study involving 407 adults explored the interplay between mindful eating, psychological distress, and eating disorders, notably orthorexia nervosa and their association with Instagram use. The data extraction and analysis were conducted employing SPSS v28 and R-Statistics. Utilizing Mindful Eating Scale (MES-16), Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire Short (EDE-QS), Orthorexia Nervosa Questionnaire-Revised (ORTO-R), and Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) validated scales, alongside inquiries into Instagram usage, significant correlations emerged. MES-16 demonstrated a robust negative association with both EDE-QS (r = −0.501, p < 0.001) and ORTO-R (r = −0.519, p < 0.001), while EDE-QS and ORTO-R showed significant correlations with depression, anxiety, and stress (p < 0.001). Variations in ORTO-R mean scores were notably distinct across different mindful eating adherence categories (p < 0.001), emphasizing the negative relationship between mindful eating and orthorexia nervosa. Additionally, participants with extensive daily Instagram use displayed significantly higher ORTO-R scores compared to minimal users (p < 0.05). These findings suggest a negative link between mindful eating with eating disorders and orthorexia nervosa, highlighting mindful eating’s potential role in reducing orthorexia nervosa tendencies. Furthermore, Instagram use seems associated with psychological distress and elevated orthorexia nervosa levels.
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Open AccessArticle
The Dark and Comforting Side of Night Eating: Women’s Experiences of Trauma
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Yael Latzer, Revital Edelstein-Elkayam, Osnat Rabin, Sigal Alon, Miri Givon and Orna Tzischinsky
Psychiatry Int. 2024, 5(1), 15-26; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint5010002 - 03 Jan 2024
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Objectives: Night eating syndrome (NES) is classified as a delay of food intake, reflected by consuming large amounts after the evening meal or ingesting food after sleep onset (DSM-5). This article aims to describe NES experience, awareness, narratives, and behavior from the perspectives
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Objectives: Night eating syndrome (NES) is classified as a delay of food intake, reflected by consuming large amounts after the evening meal or ingesting food after sleep onset (DSM-5). This article aims to describe NES experience, awareness, narratives, and behavior from the perspectives of patients with NES in light of their history of traumatic life events. Method: Semi-structured interviews based on the phenomenological approach were conducted with 18 women (aged 19–60) diagnosed with NES. Results: The analysis raised two themes: 1. References to NES as an experience that represents the darker sides of patients’ behaviors and involves helplessness, contempt, self-loathing, and a loss of control. Patients also related to difficult memories concerning sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. 2. References to the comforting side of NES patients’ behaviors that involves soothing, regulating, emotional disconnecting, and a sense of calm, control, and the ability to function. Conclusion: Findings present the relationship between traumatic life events, dissociation, and EDs. Clinically, they highlight the importance of an early assessment and a traumatic life history and suggest giving special treatment attention to the role of dissociation and night eating as regulatory mechanisms in the therapeutic process and alliance.
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Open AccessSystematic Review
Mental Health Biobanks—A Systematic Review on the Prevalence, Creation, and Implementation of Mental Health Biobanks Globally
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Nitika S. Govind, Kerri M. Gillespie and Grace Branjerdporn
Psychiatry Int. 2024, 5(1), 1-14; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint5010001 - 28 Dec 2023
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Biobanks are collections of human biological materials (biospecimens) alongside personal health information that are stored for scientific research. There is a wide range of evidence to show that biomarkers can be linked to psychiatric illnesses. Identification of such biomarkers facilitates clinical diagnosis, early
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Biobanks are collections of human biological materials (biospecimens) alongside personal health information that are stored for scientific research. There is a wide range of evidence to show that biomarkers can be linked to psychiatric illnesses. Identification of such biomarkers facilitates clinical diagnosis, early intervention, and compressive treatment. The aim of this systematic review was to analyze the methodology of global biobanks focusing on mental illnesses. Six databases were systematically searched. A total of 1363 abstracts were screened, and 21 full texts were assessed for eligibility. The quality of the literature was appraised. Of the six papers included, there were few mental health-specific biobanks globally, with the majority being in European and American countries. Most research was conducted examining depression with scant research on self-harm, personality disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Blood was the most common biological sample collected, and less common samples were hair and saliva. Mental health-specific biobanks support the understanding of biological etiologies of psychiatric diseases. There are gaps in research on certain mental illnesses such as personality disorders and PTSD. More research is required in lower–middle income countries. Despite scientific progress to identify biochemical markers of mental disorders, further research is needed to aid diagnosis and management within this discipline.
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Open AccessArticle
Tangram Puzzles in Patients with Neurocognitive Disorders: A Pilot Study
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Jian Zhang, Narimasa Katsuta, Toshiki Takayama, Narihiro Orimo, Nobuto Shibata and Tadafumi Kato
Psychiatry Int. 2023, 4(4), 404-415; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint4040036 - 15 Dec 2023
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Objective: The tangram puzzle is a serious math puzzle game used to promote mathematic development in children, which improves visuospatial function and creativity. A game to improve cognitive functions is useful for patients with neurocognitive disorders. This pilot study aimed to determine whether
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Objective: The tangram puzzle is a serious math puzzle game used to promote mathematic development in children, which improves visuospatial function and creativity. A game to improve cognitive functions is useful for patients with neurocognitive disorders. This pilot study aimed to determine whether this game could improve cognitive function in patients with neurocognitive disorders. Materials: This study recruited patients with mild Alzheimer’s disease or mild cognitive impairment who were followed longitudinally by the Department of Psychiatry, Juntendo University Hospital, or Juntendo Tokyo Koto Geriatric Medical Center (Tokyo, Japan). Methods: Participants were asked to solve Tangram puzzles 2–3 times weekly, spending 30–40 min/session at home with or without family members for approximately 90 (Study 1) or 180 (Study 2) days. Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) in Study 1 as well as a Japanese version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Trail Making Test in Study 2 were performed on the initial and final days. Results: Study 1 comprised eight participants and Study 2 comprised nine participants. Statistically significant improvement was observed in MMSE total score (p = 0.016) and orientation segment (p = 0.026) in Study 1. No statistically significant difference was noted in MMSE total score, orientation segment, or MoCA-J (Japanese version of Montreal Cognitive Assessment) score between the initial and final days in Study 2 (p = 0.764, p = 0.583, and p = 0.401, respectively). Conclusions: Study 1 revealed that Tangram puzzles may ameliorate the progression of cognitive functions in patients with neurocognitive disorders within a short time (3 months); however, Study 2 did not show a consistent result. Thus, randomized controlled trials are warranted to draw a conclusion.
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Open AccessArticle
Suicidal Ideation in People with Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury
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Fabiana Faleiros, Flávia Binati, Karina Bimbatti, Kelly Graziani Giacchero Vedana, Jonas Carvalho e Silva, Christoph de Oliveira Käppler, Luís Sousa, Helena José, Isabel Rabiais, António Almeida and Geyslane Albuquerque
Psychiatry Int. 2023, 4(4), 394-403; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint4040035 - 06 Dec 2023
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Suicidal behavior is considered a worldwide social phenomenon and a serious public health problem. In this regard, people with traumatic spinal cord injury may be associated with low mood, depression, suicidal ideation, and behavior. To evaluate the factors associated with suicidal ideation in
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Suicidal behavior is considered a worldwide social phenomenon and a serious public health problem. In this regard, people with traumatic spinal cord injury may be associated with low mood, depression, suicidal ideation, and behavior. To evaluate the factors associated with suicidal ideation in people with SCI, this is quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive study was carried out in a virtual environment. In total, 200 people aged 18 or over with TSCI living in Brazil took part in the study. Data were collected using the Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation, answered online by participants using SurveyMonkey®. The sample consisted of 200 participants, most of whom were male, from southeast Brazil, with a mean age of 36.22 years, a duration of injury of 134.4 months, and a 32.5% frequency of suicidal ideation, as suicidal ideation was also verified in relation to the variables of schooling, rehabilitation, and consequence of injury. A statistically significant relationship was found between the duration of injury and suicidal ideation. According to the results, a considerable percentage of these individuals still think about suicide. On the other hand, the duration of the injury showed a significant difference in relation to suicidal ideation, and it was observed that the shorter the duration of spinal cord injury, the greater the likelihood of suicidal ideation.
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Open AccessArticle
Adolescents’ Experiences of Close Relatives Having Physical Illness, Mental Illness, Addiction/Gambling Disorders, or Death Are Associated with Poor Mental Health and Non-Suicidal Self-Injury
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Ylva Tindberg and Sanna Tiikkaja
Psychiatry Int. 2023, 4(4), 380-393; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint4040034 - 15 Nov 2023
Cited by 1
Abstract
Adolescents’ lives are negatively influenced by experiences of close relatives having severe health conditions. This study aimed to investigate the associations between adolescents’ experiences of close relatives with severe health conditions (RSHCs) and poor mental health and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). Cross-sectional population-based data
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Adolescents’ lives are negatively influenced by experiences of close relatives having severe health conditions. This study aimed to investigate the associations between adolescents’ experiences of close relatives with severe health conditions (RSHCs) and poor mental health and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). Cross-sectional population-based data on 15–18-year-olds (n = 3483) in Sörmland, Sweden, were used to analyse the associations between RSHC experiences, such as physical illness, mental illness, addiction/gambling disorders, or death, and poor mental health and NSSI. Logistic regression models (odds ratios) were generated for having one or multiple types of RSHC experiences in different combinations, adjusting for background factors and protective factors for mental health, and stratifying by gender. Adolescents reporting multiple types of RSHC experiences had significantly increased odds ratios for poor mental health (1.74–3.07) or NSSI (1.83–3.02) compared with peers without such experiences. Adjustments for mental health protective factors attenuated the associations with poor mental health or NSSI. These associations remained significant among girls with multiple types of RSHC experiences, while boys’ vulnerabilities included having a relative who had died or had an addiction/gambling disorder. In conclusion, adolescents with RSHC experiences are at increased risk of poor mental health and NSSI. This vulnerability is most pronounced among girls with multiple RSHC experiences and especially for NSSI.
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Open AccessProtocol
Mental Health Peer-Led Cafés—A Complementary Approach to Traditional Crisis Care: A Protocol for a Systematic Scoping Review
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Michael John Norton
Psychiatry Int. 2023, 4(4), 370-379; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint4040033 - 14 Nov 2023
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Introduction: Psychiatric services are gradually becoming more recovery-orientated. With such orientation came the peer movement, a process which began during the civil rights movement of the 1960s and 1970s and has grown exponentially since. In June 2020, the Irish Department of Health released
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Introduction: Psychiatric services are gradually becoming more recovery-orientated. With such orientation came the peer movement, a process which began during the civil rights movement of the 1960s and 1970s and has grown exponentially since. In June 2020, the Irish Department of Health released ‘Sharing the Vision’, a policy which envisioned the implementation of crisis cafés as part of mental health service provision. In addition to this, recovery and peer support movements allowed for the timely establishment of peer-led services, thus raising the question: can such crisis cafés as posited in current Irish mental health policy be peer-run? Methods and Analysis: A systematic scoping review is proposed within this paper, the aim of which is to investigate the effectiveness of peer-led cafés on an individual’s recovery journey along with its impact on mental health, safety, and coercion-based outcomes within mental health crisis care. To ensure a transparent and empirically sound approach to the search and reporting of this systematic scoping review, the PRISMA guidelines will be adhered to in this review. Additionally, Arksey and O’Malley’s original framework will be employed to support the adherence to the relevant methodological processes when reporting on this kind of review. Arksey and O’Malley’s original framework presents scoping reviews through a five-step process, which includes stating search terms and searching databases (CINAHL, psycINFO, psycARTICLES, and PubMed) and repositories (Google, Cochrane Online Library, and ETHos), for papers to be included, based on a pre-determined inclusion/exclusion criteria. Discussion: This protocol is the first, to the authors’ knowledge, that reports the qualitative, quantitative, and mixed method evidence into peer-run cafés for mental health crisis management. The use of the PRISMA guidelines and Arksey and O’Malley’s methodological framework enhances the methodological rigour, transparency, reproducibility, and accuracy of this review. The review is limited, as it does not report on study quality or risk of bias. This will not occur in order to maintain its adherence to Arksey and O’Malley’s original framework. The preprint protocol was added to the OSF Registries and is freely available. It will be updated once the paper is published.
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Open AccessReview
Suicide Risk Assessment and Prevention Tools in the UK: Current Landscape and Future Directions
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Abayomi Arowosegbe and Tope Oyelade
Psychiatry Int. 2023, 4(4), 354-369; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint4040032 - 30 Oct 2023
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Suicide is a major global public health problem, with profound implications for individuals, families, and communities. In the United Kingdom (UK), despite efforts to detect and manage suicidal ideas, suicide rates persist, especially among middle-aged men and women, particularly those aged 45 to
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Suicide is a major global public health problem, with profound implications for individuals, families, and communities. In the United Kingdom (UK), despite efforts to detect and manage suicidal ideas, suicide rates persist, especially among middle-aged men and women, particularly those aged 45 to 54 years. Recent global challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, conflict, and the environmental crisis, have raised concerns about an increase in suicide rates, particularly among young people. As a result, a population-wide preventive approach based on evidence is imperative to mitigate the projected increase in suicides. To evaluate the effectiveness of suicide prevention strategies, there is a need for an objective and universally accepted risk assessment approach that does not currently exist. This review examines the current landscape of suicide prevention in the United Kingdom and evaluates the strengths and limitations of existing suicide risk assessments tools. The current suicide prevention tools used, including machine learning and mobile applications are discussed. Also, the epidemiological trends in the various regions of the UK, risk factors including age, sex, and socio-economic status are assessed to provide context. Through this discourse, we hope to provide valuable insight for clinicians, researchers, and policy makers about the current landscape of suicide, especially within the United Kingdom, while presenting recommendations regarding areas that require further research and improvement. Accordingly, suicide prevention is and will continue to be a major focus of both the national health service and research in the UK in the strive to reduce the rate of suicide across all regions. Indeed, headways have been made in the use of technology in preventing suicide both locally and globally. However, research should in the future investigate the value of personalized interventions tailored to the various risk factors of suicide and based on appropriate screening and assessment tools.
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Open AccessSystematic Review
Virtual Reality Mindfulness for Meta-Competence Training among People with Different Mental Disorders: A Systematic Review
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Eleni Mitsea, Athanasios Drigas and Charalabos Skianis
Psychiatry Int. 2023, 4(4), 324-353; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint4040031 - 18 Oct 2023
Cited by 1
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International psychiatry is facing major challenges due to the rapid increase in mental health issues. The forthcoming mental health crisis has opened the debate about the need to broaden the therapeutic horizons with the implementation of digitally assisted mindfulness practices within psychotherapeutic interventions.
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International psychiatry is facing major challenges due to the rapid increase in mental health issues. The forthcoming mental health crisis has opened the debate about the need to broaden the therapeutic horizons with the implementation of digitally assisted mindfulness practices within psychotherapeutic interventions. Mindfulness training is developing into a promising intervention for a variety of health problems and a booster of well-being. At the same time, virtual reality (VR) and especially immersive technologies are increasingly being used as assistive tools in the training of people with special education needs and disabilities (SEND). Μeta-competences refer to a set of self-development skills that incorporate meta-cognitive and meta-emotional attributes, enabling individuals to be self-conscious, self-regulated, and flexible in every aspect of human life. The current review aims to investigate (i) the efficacy of mindfulness strategies in meta-competence training for SEND and (ii) the role of VR as an assistive technology in mindfulness training. The PRISMA 2020 methodology was utilized to respond to the objectives and research questions. The database search provided 1380 records, and 29 studies met the inclusion criteria. The results showed that mindfulness training has the potential to train meta-cognitive and meta-emotional competences among people with different mental disorders, including Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Intellectual Disability (ID), Depressive Disorder, Stress Disorder, and Specific Learning Disorder. VR was found to be an effective assistive technology, providing significant advantages compared to conventional mindfulness interventions. Mindfulness training assisted by immersive technologies was found to significantly improve a wide range of cognitive and socio-emotional meta-competences, including self-awareness, inhibition control, attention regulation, flexibility, positive thinking, and emotional regulation. The results of this systematic review may provide positive feedback for creating inclusive digital training environments.
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Open AccessArticle
COVID-19 Lockdown Effects on Mood: Impact of Sex, Age, and Underlying Disease
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Pantea Kiani, Pauline A. Hendriksen, Jessica Balikji, Noortje R. Severeijns, Annabel S. M. Sips, Gillian Bruce, Johan Garssen and Joris C. Verster
Psychiatry Int. 2023, 4(4), 307-323; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint4040030 - 13 Oct 2023
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Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown periods had a significant negative impact on people’s lives and psychological well-being. However, the impact of lockdowns differed between individuals. This study aimed to identify vulnerable groups and investigated the relationship between mood and perceived immune fitness and the
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Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown periods had a significant negative impact on people’s lives and psychological well-being. However, the impact of lockdowns differed between individuals. This study aimed to identify vulnerable groups and investigated the relationship between mood and perceived immune fitness and the number and severity of coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) symptoms during the first COVID-19 lockdown in the Netherlands. In addition, the impact of emotion regulation and other preventive measures was considered. The aim of the study was to identify possible differences according to sex, age, and the presence of underlying disease. A two-part online survey among N = 1415 individuals of the Dutch population (18 to 94 years old) was conducted in the summer of 2020. N = 541 of these participants also completed part 2 of the survey. A series of questionnaires was completed on mood, quality of life, lifestyle, immune fitness, and the number and severity of COVID-19 symptoms. Retrospectively, the period before the first lockdown (15 January–14 March 2020) was compared with the first lockdown (15 March–11 May 2020). The analysis revealed that the lockdown period was associated with significantly poorer mood, poorer immune fitness, and reduced quality of life. Poorer mood was associated with a significantly reduced immune fitness and a significant increase in the number and severity of COVID-19 symptoms. Mood changes did not differ significantly between men and women. Some mood effects were significantly more pronounced for individuals with underlying diseases (depression, fatigue, and stress) and younger individuals (depression and loneliness). Regarding lifestyle factors, no significant lockdown effects were seen according to underlying disease status. During the lockdown period, women reported a decline in nutrition scores, which was not seen in men, whereas they reported receiving more support from family and friends than men. Regarding age, younger individuals reported a significantly greater negative impact on physical activity and being active than the older participants. No differential effects for the groups were found for health correlates. In conclusion, significant negative lockdown effects on mood, quality of life, and immune fitness were observed across the population. The effects were significantly more pronounced among young individuals and those with underlying disease.
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Open AccessPerspective
The Prospect of Focal Ultrasound in the Treatment of Mental Disorders
by
Carlos Trenado, Nicole Pedroarena-Leal and Diane Ruge
Psychiatry Int. 2023, 4(3), 297-306; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint4030029 - 20 Sep 2023
Cited by 1
Abstract
Mental disorders critically affect an individual’s quality of life by disrupting cognitive abilities and emotional states and are a major health burden worldwide. At present, psychotherapy and pharmacological interventions are the main approaches to target the symptoms associated with such disorders; however, some
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Mental disorders critically affect an individual’s quality of life by disrupting cognitive abilities and emotional states and are a major health burden worldwide. At present, psychotherapy and pharmacological interventions are the main approaches to target the symptoms associated with such disorders; however, some patients become treatment-resistant and thus, alternative treatments are needed. Focal ultrasound (FUS) is an emerging non-invasive therapeutic technology that relies on the use of sound waves to target brain regions with high specificity and without the need for incision or radiation. As a result, FUS has been proposed as a potential treatment for mental diseases as it may help to overcome several issues of current neuromodulation approaches. Here, we discuss basic neuroscience and clinical studies on the application of FUS and highlight perspectives and challenges of the technology as well as opportunities, for instance, regarding stimulation of deep brain structures with potential implication in modulating brain neuroplasticity of relevant cortical and subcortical pathways.
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Open AccessCase Report
Game Transfer Phenomena in a Clinical Case with Psychosis and Gaming Disorder
by
Huu Kim Le, Angelica B. Ortiz de Gortari, Annabel Callan, Daragh Poynton, Daniela Vecchio and Wai Chen
Psychiatry Int. 2023, 4(3), 286-296; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint4030028 - 07 Sep 2023
Cited by 3
Abstract
Little is known about the interplay of Gaming Disorder (GD) with psychotic processes in schizophrenia. Only a few clinical cases involving video game playing and psychotic symptoms have been previously reported in literature. This case report describes a 24-year-old male diagnosed with paranoid
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Little is known about the interplay of Gaming Disorder (GD) with psychotic processes in schizophrenia. Only a few clinical cases involving video game playing and psychotic symptoms have been previously reported in literature. This case report describes a 24-year-old male diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia and GD. Our case, Patient G, had premorbid excessive video game playing and Game Transfer Phenomena (GTP) prior to the onset of his schizophrenia illness. GTP are common among gamers and are characterised by abnormal perceptions, intrusive thoughts, and temporal change on behaviours related to the content of video games. However, GTP are not necessarily of delusional intensity for meeting the threshold of psychosis. The relapse in Patient G’s paranoid schizophrenia was associated with recent cannabis use, social withdrawal, and excessive video game playing. Patient G’s psychotic symptoms were influenced by video game themes and the movie “Matrix”, including the delusion that he was in a video game and that people around him were “non-playable characters”. Awareness of GTP can help clinicians to demarcate GTP from psychotic features and identify their interactions, given the ensuing treatment implications. Our case report highlights the importance of GTP, which in some cases may be an early sign of developing mental illness and could have implications for early intervention and prevention of illness onset and complications.
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Open AccessArticle
Internet Addiction and Depression among Syrian College Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
by
Sarya Swed, Haidara Bohsas, Hidar Alibrahim, Mohammed Amir Rais, Mohamed Elsayed, Abdulqadir J. Nashwan, Mohammad Mehedi Hasan, Mohamad Nour Nasif, Bisher Sawaf, Mhd Kutaiba Albuni, Elias Battikh, Rawan Abo Kash and Sheikh Shoib
Psychiatry Int. 2023, 4(3), 275-285; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychiatryint4030027 - 01 Sep 2023
Abstract
Background: Problematic internet use (PIU) or internet addiction has become increasingly prevalent, and concerns about its impact on mental health and social functioning have grown. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of PIU among Syrian university students and its relationship with their
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Background: Problematic internet use (PIU) or internet addiction has become increasingly prevalent, and concerns about its impact on mental health and social functioning have grown. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of PIU among Syrian university students and its relationship with their demographics, internet user behavior, and mental health. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate medical students in Syrian government universities between 12 April and 29 May 2022. The survey included the Beck Depression Inventory and the Internet Addiction Scale. Results: Out of 2891 participants, 75.2% were female, with an average age of 21.87. The average Internet Addiction Test (IAT) score was 49.4, and the overall prevalence of PIU was 89%. Furthermore, 93.0% of participants displayed possible signs and symptoms of depression. PIU was significantly linked with physical abuse (p = 0.001) and mental stress (p = 0.0001). Internet addiction is (AOR:1.723, COR:2.289) fold more likely to occur in those with more than 8 h of sleep per night than in those who sleep for less than 6 h (p-value < 0.05). Unadjusted regression analysis showed that 13 predictors of the independent variables were statistically significant in predicting the presence of internet addiction, such as participants who suffered from a breakup (COR:2.039), domestic violence (COR:2.136), physical abuse (COR:2.190), or mental stress (COR:2.621) were more likely to be affected by internet addiction than those who did not (p-value < 0.05). Conclusions: The study found a high rate of internet addiction among Syrian medical students, with those experiencing mental health problems and depression symptoms more likely to be internet addicts. To prevent PIU, students should be encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities, such as sports, and awareness programs should be enhanced to highlight the negative effects of internet addiction.
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Burnout Battleground: Navigating the Explosive Intersection of Technology, Work, Studies and Mental Well-Being—Identified Links with Mental Disorders
Guest Editors: Spiros Kamtsios, Vaitsa GiannouliDeadline: 12 February 2025