Search Results (218)

This preliminary study aimed to explore postgraduate students’ perceptions of mental wellbeing and mental health literacy at a university in the East of England. Due to government widening participation initiatives, more students from minority groups are attending universities, most of which have expanded their wellbeing support offers to students through dedicated Student Wellbeing Services and student success teams. This study employed mixed methods with two stages. The first stage, quantitative data collection, employed an online survey (designed by the first author), analysed by Qualtrics with resulting data used to select themes for the second stage, a focus group discussion, analysed by inductive thematic analysis. Five themes and eight sub-themes were identified: 1. Expectations: The university and students. 2. Judgement: Personal perceptions and mental health stigma. 3. Stress: University disorganisation and how stress feels. 4. International Students: Difficulties with studying and healthcare. 5. The National Health Service. The data shed further light on students’ levels of understanding of mental wellbeing (mental health literacy), providing important information for HE policymaking on students’ expectations of support for mental wellbeing. Participants advocated for more promotion of real student experiences of dealing with mental health issues and clearer signposting of support services to further tackle stigma. Full article

Background/Objectives: Mental health problems are a major cause of disability, impacting nearly 20% of adolescents. Nevertheless, they are hesitant to seek help because of stigma and fear of being labelled. Adolescents often have low mental health literacy and perceive mental health problems as personal failures. To address it, our study aimed to identify subgroups within the adolescent population based on mental health knowledge, social stigma, experiences of intergroup anxiety, and endorsement of stereotypes. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 182 adolescents (50.6% male) aged 10 to 17 years (M = 13.8, SD = 2.4). Participants completed an online survey comprising the Mental Health Knowledge Schedule, Attribution Questionnaire (AQ-8-C), Intergroup Anxiety Scale, and a scale regarding stereotypes towards people with mental health problems. Cluster analysis was used to identify the subgroups. Results: We identified three subgroups: (1) “Potential Advocates”, showing high mental health knowledge, low social stigma, low intergroup anxiety, and moderate endorsement of stereotypes; (2) “Ambivalents”, manifesting high mental health knowledge, moderate social stigma, heightened intergroup anxiety, and low endorsement of stereotypes; and (3) “Stigmatizers”, revealing low mental health knowledge, pronounced social stigma, moderate intergroup anxiety, and tendency to endorse stereotypes. Conclusions: The results highlight the multiplicity of perceptions regarding mental health and the pivotal role of knowledge, stigma, intergroup dynamics, and stereotypes in shaping attitudes. Implications for interventions targeting mental health stigma and fostering positive attitudes among adolescents are discussed, underscoring the importance of customised strategies to address the multiple needs and experiences characteristic of this developmental stage. Full article

Background/Objectives: We aim to assess the effect of the Espaijove.net mental health literacy program on adolescents’ quality of life (QOL). Additionally, we aim to describe their QOL and mental well-being. Methods: A multicenter, randomized, controlled trial was conducted, with pre- and post-intervention assessments and 6- and 12-month follow-ups. A total of 1032 students aged 13–14 from 18 schools in Barcelona participated in one of the three following mental health literacy (MHL) programs or were placed in a control group (CG): (1) a 1 h awareness session (G1h); (2) a 6 h MHL program (G6h); (3) a 7 h MHL program with stigma reduction (G7h). Measures: (1) Mental well-being: Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ); (2) QOL: EuroQol 5D-5L with its two parts: the EuroQol 5D-5L Index (0–1) and EuroQol 5D-5L visual analog scale (EQ-VAS) (0–100). Analyses were conducted on an intention-to-treat basis, using data imputation methods for missing data. Intervention effects were assessed using multilevel models. Results: Baseline EQ-VAS and EQ-5D-5L index scores were 77.84 (CI = 76.77–78.91) and 0.91 (CI = 0.90–0.92), respectively. Boys reported higher QOL and SDQ scores (p < 0.001), whereas participants of foreign nationality showed lower scores in QOL (EQ-VAS; p = 0.039) and mental well-being (p < 0.001). Post-intervention, all groups (intervention and control), except G6h, showed QOL improvements. However, in the 6-month follow-up, the CG outperformed the other groups. At 12 months, G7h achieved the highest EQ-VAS scores compared to the other groups. Conclusions: MHL-based interventions improved short-term QOL but failed to sustain these improvements over time. Groups with lower QOL and SDQ scores included girls and adolescents of foreign nationality. Full article

Prolonged untreated psychosis worsens outcomes, thus motivating the study of pathways and perceived barriers to care, especially for high-risk age groups like college students. The primary objective of this study was to explore pathways to coordinated specialty care (CSC) and perceived barriers to care in college students at high risk for psychosis or with first-episode psychosis and determine any association between them. Twenty-four college students enrolled in CSC completed the Circumstances of Onset and Relapse Schedule and Barriers to Seeking Psychological Help Scale (BSPHS). Non-parametric tests were used for two-group analyses, and medians and interquartile ranges (IQR) were calculated. The median number of total contacts along the pathway to CSC was 5.0 (IQR = 5.2), with more psychiatric contacts (Mdn. = 3.0, IQR = 2.2) than non-psychiatric contacts (Mdn. = 2.0, IQR = 3.0). Students whose first contact was with non-psychiatric services had longer pathways to care overall, with a higher median number of total psychiatric as well as non-psychiatric contacts relative to students whose first contact was with psychiatric services. With the highest possible total BSPHS score being 5, the median score was 2.7 (IQR = 0.8). Targeted psychosis literacy training for non-mental health professionals and anti-stigma campaigns for college students may help reduce the duration of untreated psychosis. Full article

Background and Purpose: The proliferation of short-form video content on social media platforms has led to increased user engagement but also raised concerns about potential addictive behaviors and cognitive consequences, particularly among youth. This study explored the prevalence of short-form video addiction (SVA) among Jordanian youth, its correlates, and its impact on attention and memory function, with an emphasis on understanding the mediating and moderating role of attention in the relationship between SVA and memory. Methods: Utilizing a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 1029 university students across 25 higher-education institutions in Jordan. Results: Half of the participants exhibited moderate to high levels of SVA. The findings indicated a significant increase in SVA scores among female students (p = 0.003), those of a younger age (p = 0.045), those with lower GPAs (p = 0.013), and those who dedicated fewer hours to study (p = 0.006). Notably, there was a significant and large correlation between SVA scores and students’ perceptions of user-generated content (p < 0.001). Attention partially mediated the relationship between SVA and memory function with excellent model fit indices (χ²(12) = 14.11, p = 0.05, RMSEA = 0.03, GFI = 0.99, IFI = 0.99, TLI = 0.98, CFI = 0.99). However, attention did not moderate this relationship, suggesting that the impact of SVA on memory is consistent across varying levels of attention. Discussion: The findings underscore the significant engagement of Jordanian youth with short-form video content and the potential cognitive risks associated with SVA. Interventions to manage attention could mitigate the adverse effects of SVA on cognitive functions. This study calls for a comprehensive approach to address SVA among youth, including the development of digital literacy programs, mental health support services, and policy interventions that promote a balanced digital ecosystem and responsible media consumption. Full article

This study examines educators’ perceptions of artificial intelligence (AI) in educational settings, focusing on their familiarity with AI tools, integration into teaching practices, professional development needs, the influence of institutional policies, and impacts on mental health. Survey responses from 353 educators across various levels and countries revealed that 92% of respondents are familiar with AI, utilizing it to enhance teaching efficiency and streamline administrative tasks. Notably, many educators reported students using AI tools like ChatGPT for assignments, prompting adaptations in teaching methods to promote critical thinking and reduce dependency. Some educators saw AI’s potential to reduce stress through automation but others raised concerns about increased anxiety and social isolation from reduced interpersonal interactions. This study highlights a gap in institutional AI policies, leading some educators to establish their own guidelines, particularly for matters such as data privacy and plagiarism. Furthermore, respondents identified a significant need for professional development focused on AI literacy and ethical considerations. This study’s findings suggest the necessity for longitudinal studies to explore the long-term effects of AI on educational outcomes and mental health and underscore the importance of incorporating student perspectives for a thorough understanding of AI’s role in education. Full article

Background/Objectives: Decreased well-being may be a precursor to mental health challenges. Mental health visits for 5–11-year-old children increased by 24% from 2019 to 2020. COVID-19 led to record high levels of anxiety and depression in young children. This highlights the need for early identification and intervention of decreased well-being to prevent progression to potential mental health issues. The purpose of our research was to develop the Pediatric Well-Being Picture Scale© (PWBPS©), the first picture-based screening tool for ages 8–11 years, accessible to children regardless of their literacy, language skill, and developmental levels, allowing for quick screening for early referral and intervention. Methods: The mixed-methods research design included focus groups and one-on-one interviews for content and face validity, test/retest reliability, convergent validity, and exploratory factor analysis. Subjects were recruited from public elementary schools. Results: The numbers of participating subjects were as follows: N = 17 for focus groups; N = 12 for one-on-one interviews; N = 50 for test/retest reliability; and N = 237 for convergent validity. Thematic analysis resulted in a 10-item, 3-point picture-based Likert scale. The test/retest reliability demonstrated strong correlations, with an ICC of 0.823 (95% CI [0.690, 0.905]). The Cronbach’s alpha for all the administrations was 0.74, 0.74, 0.84, and 0.89. The convergent validity demonstrated correlation with the validated KIDSCREEN-10. The Spearman’s correlation was 0.64 (95% CI as [0.55, 0.71]). The cutoff for the PWBPS© was 18.5, which correlated to a score of 22 on the KIDSCREEN-10. All the items loaded on one component. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that the PWBPS© is valid and reliable, allowing for quick and accurate assessments of children’s well-being and allowing for early intervention, which is key to reducing the negative effects of poor mental well-being. Full article

Background/Objectives: In Portugal, evidence regarding the mental health of institutionalized older people is limited, leaving this area poorly described and the mental health needs of this population largely unknown. This research aims to describe the mental health of older persons residing in nursing homes in Northern Portugal. Methods: A cross-sectional study will be conducted. We estimate that 567 participants will be recruited through convenience sampling. Potential participants must live in nursing homes in Northern Portugal, be aged 65 years or older, and exhibit cognitive impairment at an initial or intermediate stage. Ten web survey questionnaires will be administered to the participants, including one sociodemographic and health questionnaire and nine mental health assessment instruments evaluating fear of falling; sleep quality; frailty; anxiety, depression, and stress; loneliness and social isolation; risk of acute confusion; cognition; emotional literacy; and perceived hope. Data will be analyzed by employing descriptive, cluster, inferential, and bivariate analyses, with multiple regression models included. The study and the research protocol were submitted to and approved by the Ethics Committee of a major public university in Northern Portugal (CEICVS 007/2025). Expected Results: This is a pioneering study in Portugal, representing the first attempt to assess the mental health of older nursing home residents. Our study will enhance the understanding of the mental and multifactorial health needs of this population through a comprehensive description of their mental health, and sociodemographic and health characteristics. Full article

Background/Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on physical, mental, and social aspects of life worldwide. This study aimed to explore and compare differences in knowledge, awareness, behavior, and the psychological impact of the pandemic among students of biomedical faculties at the University of Zagreb. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between 27 November 2020 and 19 January 2021 involving 518 students from the School of Dental Medicine, School of Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, and Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. An anonymous online questionnaire was distributed, assessing participants’ knowledge about SARS-CoV-2, information sources, attitudes, and psychological responses. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and appropriate statistical tests. Results: The median knowledge score was 61.54%, with senior and female students demonstrating significantly more knowledge (p < 0.001 and p = 0.044, respectively). Students who consulted the scientific literature and official websites had higher knowledge levels (p < 0.001). Most participants used media and social networks for pandemic information, while scientific sources were underutilized. Psychological impacts were evident, with 46.3% expressing fear about the future and 25% reporting anxiety if they were to be infected. Additionally, those who engaged with the scientific literature were more likely to accept vaccination and showed lower levels of COVID-19 stigma. A majority (64.5%) believed that the media exaggerated the pandemic’s risks. Conclusions: Biomedical students demonstrated moderate knowledge about COVID-19, with a clear link between scientific literacy and more informed, less stigmatizing attitudes. This study underscores the importance of reliable information sources in shaping public health awareness and highlights the need for further education on COVID-19 symptoms and preventive measures. Full article

Background/Objectives: Internet use positively impacts mental health in older adults, with health literacy (HL) playing a key role. While social networks may complement individual HL, the role of neighborhood relationships in this association, particularly by gender, remains unclear. This study examined how the association between HL and Internet use among older adults was modified by neighborhood relationships. Methods: Using baseline data from the Chofu–Digital–Choju project, a cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 1955 community-dwelling adults aged 65–84 (889 men and 1066 women). HL was assessed using the Communicative and Critical Health Literacy scale and dichotomized at four points. Neighborhood relationships were categorized as high (visiting/chatting with neighbors) or low (exchanging greetings/no relationship). Gender-stratified logistic regression analyses were performed with Internet use as the dependent variable, with HL, neighborhood relationships, and their interaction as independent variables. Results: Internet user proportion was 55.6% for men and 41.8% for women. HL was positively associated with Internet use in both genders, though patterns differed. Among men, the HL–Internet use association was consistent (OR = 3.09; 95% CI: 2.25–4.24) regardless of neighborhood relationship levels. For women, this association was significantly modified (interaction OR = 0.46, 95% CI: 0.24–0.87). Women with low HL but strong neighborhood relationships showed increased odds of Internet use (OR = 2.08, 95% CI: 1.32–3.26). Conclusions: Gender-specific patterns in HL and neighborhood relationships influence Internet use among older adults. Neighborhood relationships may compensate for low HL in women, underscoring the need for gender-sensitive strategies to promote digital HL. Full article

In this study, 793 college students were examined through the utilization of the socioeconomic status scale, mental health literacy scale, and social well-being questionnaire at T1 and T2, respectively, with the aim of exploring the relationship between mental health literacy and social well-being and the relative static and dynamic development of the two. The results indicated that mental health literacy was significantly and positively correlated with social well-being to a moderate extent (T1: r = 0.31; T2: r = 0.35). Furthermore, the across-lagged model was employed to determine the relationship between mental health literacy and social well-being over time, revealing that mental health literacy and social well-being merely have a unidirectional predictive relationship; social well-being at T1 can significantly and positively predict mental health literacy at T2, but mental health literacy at T1 cannot predict social well-being at T2. We carried out the latent change score model and discovered that a higher level of T1 social well-being can facilitate the enhancement of mental health literacy subsequently. Full article

Introduction: Caring for a dependent individual, particularly over an extended period, places significant strain on family caregivers, often leading to adverse physical, mental, emotional, social, and economic outcomes for both caregivers and those they care for. Common challenges include anxiety, depression, loneliness, and diminished overall well-being. E-health applications have emerged as effective tools to support family caregivers by promoting positive mental health through online interventions, enhancing problem-solving skills, autonomy, interpersonal relationships, self-control, and a prosocial attitude. Methods: This study aimed to translate and culturally adapt the Spanish “Program to Promote Positive Mental Health through the Cuidadoras Crónicos Manual” into the Portuguese context, supporting its implementation as a smartphone application. The process involved translation, back-translation by two native experts, and refinement through a focus group with eight participants. The study adhered to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) guidelines. Results: The translation and back-translation processes identified several adjustments, which informed discussions in the focus group. Three key themes emerged: (i) conceptual and semantic equivalence, (ii) optimisation of content, and (iii) relevance and timeliness of the manual. Conclusions: The Spanish manual for promoting positive mental health among family caregivers was successfully translated and culturally adapted into European Portuguese. Validated through expert input, this marks the first version of the manual tailored to Portuguese caregivers, using Positive Mental Health models to support caregivers of individuals with chronic conditions. Full article

Background: Adolescent eating disorders pose a significant public health challenge and strongly affect both physical and emotional well-being. Early diagnosis is important for improving treatment outcomes, though it remains complex due to multiple influencing factors. The family perspective is essential in this process, as it provides valuable insights into changes in adolescents’ habits and emotional health. Methods: A descriptive qualitative study was conducted between January and February 2023. Interviews were conducted with 12 participants using a phenomenological approach to explore the experiences and perspectives of family members of adolescents with eating disorders. Results: Four thematic blocks comprising several categories were identified: (T1) diagnosis, (T2) family, (T3) resources, and (T4) treatment. The participants emphasized the need for early intervention and a multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of eating disorders. Family therapy was recognized as vital to treatment, and common dissatisfaction with the public health structure underscores the need for greater investment in research and access to specialists. Mental health nurse practitioners play an important role in providing comprehensive care and support, as well as mental health literacy. Conclusions: A holistic, patient-centered approach, including family involvement and appropriate support systems, is key to improving the outcomes and quality of life of adolescents undergoing treatment for eating disorders. Improving healthcare resources and addressing the challenges faced by families is essential. In addition, mental health literacy is critical, as it enables families to understand the disease better, make informed decisions, and actively participate in the recovery process, thus contributing to improved therapeutic outcomes and quality of life for patients. Full article

(1) Background: Research on mental health literacy (MHL) and attitudes toward mental health problems (ATMHP) among non-medical college students in Nepal is limited. This study examined the relationship between MHL and ATMHP, considering demographic variables and familiarity with mental health issues; (2) Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey with 385 college students from Chitwan and Kathmandu, Nepal, using opportunity sampling. Descriptive and inferential statistics examined demographic differences, while Pearson’s correlation assessed relationships among latent variables; (3) Results: No relationship was found between MHL and ATMHP (r = −0.01, p = 0.92). Females had greater awareness of stereotypes (p = 0.025, g = 0.24). Hotel management students showed better self-help strategies (p = 0.036, d = 0.46). Public college students scored higher in self-help strategies than government (p = 0.036, d = −0.32) and private college students (p = 0.02, d = −0.32). Non-employed students outperformed employed ones in self-help strategies (p = 0.002, g = −0.46). Other demographic factors showed no significant relationships; (4) Conclusions: MHL and ATMHP were unrelated, indicating that increasing MHL alone may not improve attitudes. Multidimensional interventions combining education and experiential learning are needed. Certain demographic factors influenced stereotypes and self-help strategies, while others showed no significant impact. Full article

Context: The impact of forced migration on the mental health of refugee men is far-reaching and compounded by gendered masculinity, which shapes men’s access to employment and other resources. A gap in knowledge exists on the broader determinants of refugee men’s mental health. Methodology: Using community-based participatory action research and the arts-based method of photovoice, this study advances knowledge about the gendered impacts of forced migration from the perspective of (n = 11) Syrian refugee men in the Canadian context. Theoretical approaches of intersectionality and masculinity were applied to understand how power relations shape Syrian men’s identities, their access to employment, and impacts on their mental health. Analysis and Results: Syrian men’s identities were marginalized by working in low-wage jobs because of inequitable policies that favored Canadian experience and credentialing assessment processes that devalued their knowledge. Multiple and overlapping factors shaped Syrian men’s mental health including language and literacy barriers, time and stage of life, isolation and loneliness, belonging and identity, and gender-based stress. Caring masculinities performed through fathering, cultural connection, and service-based work promoted agency, hope, and resilience. Conclusions: Public health and community-based pathways must adopt gender-responsive and intersectional approaches to policy and practice. Peer-based programs may mitigate harmful forms of masculinity and promote transformative change to support refugee men’s mental health. Full article