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The Psychological Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Different At-Risk Population Groups

A special issue of International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (ISSN 1660-4601). This special issue belongs to the section "Mental Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 September 2022) | Viewed by 34836

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Jianli Hao

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Guest Editor
Department of Civil Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou 215123, China
Interests: green buildings assessment; carbon emission; construction waste management; waste-to-energy; waste valorization; cost and benefit analysis of recycled materials; life cycle assessment
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Margarida Gaspar de Matos

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Institute of Environmental Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
Interests: mental health; adolescents health; health promotion
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Yu Song

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
XIPU Institution, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou 215123, China
Interests: life; well-being
Dr. Zheng Feei Ma

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Public Health, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou 215123, China
Interests: mental health; public health
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous studies have been conducted by clinical and medical health researchers worldwide on the control and treatment of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Many governments have implemented lockdowns to control and prevent the spread of COVID-19 in their country, which has led to universities, recreation centres and businesses having to temporarily close, and to critical disruptions in health care services. Vulnerable individuals with underlying physical or mental health conditions are more likely to experience severe psychological repercussions as a result of the pandemic. At-risk population groups include, but are not limited to, individuals with lower socioeconomic status, those with pre-existing mental or physical health conditions, the elderly, children, and the unemployed. In order to formulate appropriate public health policy in response to the pandemic, there is an immediate need to gather evidence-based insights into how these population groups are affected by the psychological impacts of COVID-19.

This Special Issue therefore welcomes original research articles and review articles related to this topic.

Dr. Jian Li Hao
Prof. Dr. Margarida Gaspar de Matos
Dr. Yu Song
Dr. Zheng Feei Ma
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2500 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • COVID-19
  • mental health
  • well-being
  • stress management and regulation
  • psychological impact
  • social engagement and participation
  • public health

Published Papers (15 papers)

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21 pages, 465 KiB  
Article
Mental Health of Healthcare Professionals: Two Years of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Portugal
by Alexandra Costa, Teresa Caldas de Almeida, Mónica Fialho, Célia Rasga, Hugo Martiniano, Osvaldo Santos, Ana Virgolino, Astrid Moura Vicente and Maria João Heitor
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(4), 3131; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20043131 - 10 Feb 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1911
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic increased psychosocial risk factors among healthcare professionals (HCPs). Objective: To characterize Portuguese HCPs mental health (MH), estimate anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and burnout symptoms, and identify risk/protective factors. A cross-sectional online survey and a longitudinal assessment were conducted [...] Read more.
The COVID-19 pandemic increased psychosocial risk factors among healthcare professionals (HCPs). Objective: To characterize Portuguese HCPs mental health (MH), estimate anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and burnout symptoms, and identify risk/protective factors. A cross-sectional online survey and a longitudinal assessment were conducted in 2020 (T0) and 2021 (T1). Sociodemographic and occupational variables, COVID-19-related experiences and protective behavior data were collected from a non-probabilistic sample of HCPs in Portugal. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, burnout and resilience were assessed using the Portuguese versions of the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), the Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5), the Shirom–Melamed Burnout Measure (MBSM) and the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-10), respectively. Risk and protective factors were identified through simple and multiple logistic regression models. Overall, 2027 participants answered the survey in T0 and 1843 in T1. The percentage of moderate-to-severe symptoms decreased from T0 to T1; however, a considerable proportion of HCPs reported symptoms of distress in both years. Being a woman, working in a COVID-19-treatment frontline position and work–life balance increased the odds of distress. High resilience, good social/family support, and hobbies/lifestyle maintenance were found to be protective factors. Globally, our results show that performing as a HCP during the pandemic may result in long-term effects on MH. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Psychological Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Different At-Risk Population Groups)
15 pages, 768 KiB  
Article
Perceptions of Parenting during the COVID-19 Quarantine Period, in Suceava, the Epicenter of the COVID-19 Outbreak in Romania
by Marius Marici, Otilia Clipa, Remus Runcan and Iasmina Iosim
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(23), 16188; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192316188 - 3 Dec 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1584
Abstract
Recent findings suggest that quarantine adversely affects an individual’s wellbeing. Social isolation generally leads to many negative psychological outcomes in child development and to significant shifts in parent–child relationships. The aim of the present research was to investigate three aspects of parenting during [...] Read more.
Recent findings suggest that quarantine adversely affects an individual’s wellbeing. Social isolation generally leads to many negative psychological outcomes in child development and to significant shifts in parent–child relationships. The aim of the present research was to investigate three aspects of parenting during the COVID-19 quarantine: what activities parents performed better during the quarantine, what difficulties parents had during the quarantine, and what complaints children had living in Suceava, a city that saw the greatest number of infected individuals as well as the largest death toll amongst all regions in Romania. The respondents were 201 parents from Suceava, Romania (Mage = 36.71, SD = 7.22), who answered a self-reported questionnaire after a quarantine period of between 30 and 33 days (30.04.20–2.05.20) concerning three qualitative questions and items related to parenting activity, parent–child relationships, or child behaviors. Among the key findings, the research found that parents had a good perception of their parenting skills during the quarantine time, the most difficulties reported by parents were about the newly imposed social realities, and the most obvious unmet need of children was the lack of social interactions. The findings bring to light the perception of forced time spent together by parents and children. Further research should investigate how parenting fluctuates in crisis situations such as the one highlighted in this article. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Psychological Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Different At-Risk Population Groups)
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13 pages, 664 KiB  
Article
Mental Health of Cystic Fibrosis Patients and the COVID-19 Pandemic in Poland: A Single-Center Comparative Study
by Magdalena Humaj-Grysztar, Marta Rachel, Olga Śmiech-Michalec and Joanna Bonior
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(23), 16056; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192316056 - 30 Nov 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1228
Abstract
Research shows that people with cystic fibrosis are more prone to suffer from psychological problems than healthy people; thus, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland could have had an impact on their mental health. To assess this impact, we examined the [...] Read more.
Research shows that people with cystic fibrosis are more prone to suffer from psychological problems than healthy people; thus, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland could have had an impact on their mental health. To assess this impact, we examined the mental health of patients before and during the pandemic. Survey participants were asked to fill in questionnaires that consisted of Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), 12-Item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) and Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire-Revised (CFQ-R; for the purpose of the study, an emotional functioning domain was used) during their hospital visits. A total of 81 patients took part in the study: 39 before the COVID-19 pandemic (BP) and 42 during the COVID-19 pandemic (DP). Patients’ medians were lower for the BDI, GHQ-12 and higher for the emotional domain of CFQ-R during the pandemic (3, 6, 75 vs. 4, 10, 73.33). Fewer patients felt that their mental health had deteriorated during the pandemic (Δχ2 = 7.723; p = 0.005), and GHQ-12 scores were lower in the DP group (Z = −3.044; p = 0.002). No significant differences were found between groups in terms of experiencing depressive symptoms (Δχ2 = 1.036; p = 0.309). It was found that patients with cystic fibrosis from our study group not only maintained but also improved their mental health state during the COVID-19 pandemic. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Psychological Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Different At-Risk Population Groups)
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14 pages, 979 KiB  
Article
Impact of COVID-19 Risk Perception on Emotional Exhaustion among Chinese Hospitality Employees: The Mediating Effect of Job Insecurity
by Xiao Han, Mengxiao Xue, Qi Zhang and Xiaotian Dong
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(22), 15146; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192215146 - 17 Nov 2022
Viewed by 1294
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the levels of COVID-19 risk perception (CVRP), job insecurity (JI), and emotional exhaustion (EE) among Chinese hospitality employees to examine the mediating effect of JI on the relationship between CVRP and EE. The moderating role of employee mindfulness [...] Read more.
This study aims to investigate the levels of COVID-19 risk perception (CVRP), job insecurity (JI), and emotional exhaustion (EE) among Chinese hospitality employees to examine the mediating effect of JI on the relationship between CVRP and EE. The moderating role of employee mindfulness (MF) and perceived employability (PE) have also be examined. Data were collected from 652 hospitality employees in Shandong and Jiangsu Province, China. We used structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the hypothesized relationship among the variables. Significant relationships were found between hospitality employees’ CVRP and EE (β = 0.103, p < 0.01), CVRP and JI (β = 0.168, p < 0.001), and JI and EE (β = 0.378, p < 0.001). According to the results, the higher level of the CVRP of hospitality employees, the higher level of the EE. In addition, results showed mediating effects of JI on the relationship between CVRP and EE. This study also found that MF buffered the positive relationship between CVRP and EE. Therefore, in the era of COVID-19, an effective support system at the organizational level is necessary to reduce JI and EE of hospitality employees. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Psychological Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Different At-Risk Population Groups)
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12 pages, 1573 KiB  
Article
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Incidence of Suicidal Behaviors: A Retrospective Analysis of Integrated Electronic Health Records in a Population of 7.5 Million
by Damià Valero-Bover, Marc Fradera, Gerard Carot-Sans, Isabel Parra, Jordi Piera-Jiménez, Caridad Pontes and Diego Palao
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(21), 14364; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192114364 - 2 Nov 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1763
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused remarkable psychological overwhelming and an increase in stressors that may trigger suicidal behaviors. However, its impact on the rate of suicidal behaviors has been poorly reported. We conducted a population-based retrospective analysis of all suicidal behaviors attended in [...] Read more.
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused remarkable psychological overwhelming and an increase in stressors that may trigger suicidal behaviors. However, its impact on the rate of suicidal behaviors has been poorly reported. We conducted a population-based retrospective analysis of all suicidal behaviors attended in healthcare centers of Catalonia (northeast Spain; 7.5 million inhabitants) between January 2017 and June 2022 (secondary use of data routinely reported to central suicide and diagnosis registries). We retrieved data from this period, including an assessment of suicide risk and individuals’ socioeconomic as well as clinical characteristics. Data were summarized yearly and for the periods before and after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in Spain in March 2020. The analysis included 26,458 episodes of suicidal behavior (21,920 individuals); of these, 16,414 (62.0%) were suicide attempts. The monthly moving average ranged between 300 and 400 episodes until July 2020, and progressively increased to over 600 episodes monthly. In the postpandemic period, suicidal ideation increased at the expense of suicidal attempts. Cases showed a lower suicide risk; the percentage of females and younger individuals increased, whereas the prevalence of classical risk factors, such as living alone, lacking a family network, and a history of psychiatric diagnosis, decreased. In summary, suicidal behaviors have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, with more episodes of suicidal ideation without attempts in addition to younger and lower risk profiles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Psychological Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Different At-Risk Population Groups)
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15 pages, 389 KiB  
Article
Physical Activity and Mental Health of Medical Students from Poland and Belarus-Countries with Different Restrictive Approaches during the COVID-19 Pandemic
by Joanna Baj-Korpak, Kamil Zaworski, Ewa Szymczuk and Andrei Shpakou
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(21), 13994; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192113994 - 27 Oct 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1501
Abstract
Background: COVID-19 pandemic has struck all of us suddenly and unexpectedly; it deprived the society of a sense of control over their lives on different levels. In a short period of time, it led to a number of changes in everyday life of [...] Read more.
Background: COVID-19 pandemic has struck all of us suddenly and unexpectedly; it deprived the society of a sense of control over their lives on different levels. In a short period of time, it led to a number of changes in everyday life of people all over the world. In particular, these changes affected medical staff, who, all of a sudden, were burdened with new work-related responsibilities and duties. This situation may have had a detrimental effect on their mental health. Due to the unpredictability of the COVID-19 pandemic, we attempted to assess its consequences in terms of mental health and physical fitness of university students from countries in which different approaches to these issues were adopted. Methods: A total of 779 medical students (374 students from John Paul II University of Applied Sciences (ABNS) in Biala Podlaska, Poland, and 405 students from Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno (YKSUG), Belarus) took part in the survey. Three standardised psychometric tools were used in the study: The Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS), The General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) and Stress Coping Inventory (Mini-COPE). In addition, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was applied. Results: The vast majority of students both from Poland and Belarus demonstrated high levels of physical activity. However, students from ABNS manifested significantly higher levels of physical activity compared to their counterparts from YKSUG. Students from Biala Podlaska had greater satisfaction with life during the COVID-19 pandemic, whereas their peers from Grodno exhibited higher levels of mental distress. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a significant exacerbation of mental health issues among medical students. In order to alleviate negative effects of the pandemic, it seems necessary for universities to monitor the physical and mental health state of students and to implement prevention programmes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Psychological Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Different At-Risk Population Groups)
16 pages, 684 KiB  
Article
Response of Care Services for Patients with HIV/AIDS during a Pandemic: Perspectives of Health Staff in Bolivia
by Liseth Lourdes Arias López and Maria Teresa Solis-Soto
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13515; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013515 - 19 Oct 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1653
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused an unprecedented crisis striking health services, generating risks of setbacks in health care and affecting the most vulnerable populations such as HIV patients. This study aims to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the operational management [...] Read more.
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused an unprecedented crisis striking health services, generating risks of setbacks in health care and affecting the most vulnerable populations such as HIV patients. This study aims to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the operational management of health services for people living with HIV/AIDS in Cochabamba, Bolivia. We applied a qualitative approach using semi-structured in-depth interviews with ten key health professionals who care for patients with HIV/AIDS in Cochabamba, Bolivia. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and uploaded to Atlas.ti software for analysis. We used an ethnographic approach within the interpretive paradigm to carry out the thematic analysis, considering the “Determinants of health systems resilience framework” of five dimensions developed by the World Health Organization. Even though the provision of services in public care services was not interrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic, health service delivery was severely affected. Digital technology could be used to compensate in urban areas. Regarding the distribution of medications, adaptative strategies to reduce patient complications were implemented. Unfortunately, the complementary tests availability was limited. The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on HIV/AIDS patient care services in Cochabamba, with repercussions for HIV treatment access and virologic suppression. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Psychological Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Different At-Risk Population Groups)
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10 pages, 395 KiB  
Article
COVID-19 and Lockdown, as Lived and Felt by University Students
by Cátia Branquinho, Fábio Botelho Guedes, Ana Cerqueira, Alexandra Marques-Pinto, Amélia Branco, Cecília Galvão, Joana Sousa, Luís F. Goulão, Maria Rosário Bronze, Wanda Viegas and Margarida Gaspar de Matos
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13454; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013454 - 18 Oct 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1634
Abstract
In the last 2 years, the COVID-19 pandemic has spread all over the world, forcing the closure of universities, among other unusual measures in recent history. (1) Background: This work is based on the study HOUSE-ULisbon, a survey carried out during the second [...] Read more.
In the last 2 years, the COVID-19 pandemic has spread all over the world, forcing the closure of universities, among other unusual measures in recent history. (1) Background: This work is based on the study HOUSE-ULisbon, a survey carried out during the second confinement (March–May 2021) in Portugal with the collaboration of all the Faculties of the University of Lisbon (UL). The present work aims to explore gender differences in how first-year college students experienced and felt COVID-19 and the second confinement. (2) Methods: A questionnaire was carried out. In total, 976 university students (19.66 years (SD = 4.033); Min = 17 and Max = 65) from the first year of the UL were included, of which 69.5% (n = 678) were female, and 30.5% were male (n = 298). SPSS v. 26 was used for quantitative data and MAXQDA 2020 for qualitative data. (3) Results: Overall, students reported various symptoms of physical and mental discomfort (especially females). Statistically significant differences were found in the problems that could arise from the pandemic, such as the prevalence of higher anxiety and worries by females, and online gaming by males. In coping strategies, differences were found in leisure and family relationships, with greater difficulty on the female side. Social interaction was perceived as difficult or very difficult by both genders. As strategies for future pandemics, they highlighted a concerted effort between the government and media in the transmission of messages to the population, facilitating information, knowledge and adoption of protective behaviors. (4) Conclusions: These results are important data for activating or maintaining resources and services for first-year university students, who in some university institutions were supported during the pandemic by psychological, material (e.g., computers, internet), and financial support measures, which are now diminished or extinct. The impacts on their lives will certainly not be extinguished post-pandemic, and health, education, and public policy measures should be prioritized for this group. These results are important data for activating resources and services for students, informing health and education professionals, and supporting public policies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Psychological Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Different At-Risk Population Groups)
16 pages, 2131 KiB  
Article
COVID-19 Aftermath: Exploring the Mental Health Emergency among Students at a Northern Italian University
by Alessandra Patrono, Stefano Renzetti, Angela Manco, Paola Brunelli, Stefanny M. Moncada, Mark J. Macgowan, Donatella Placidi, Stefano Calza, Giuseppa Cagna, Matteo Rota, Maurizio Memo, Maurizio Tira and Roberto G. Lucchini
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(14), 8587; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19148587 - 14 Jul 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2406
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the symptoms of physical and mental health associated with lifestyle changes due to a lockdown among the students of a university in Northern Italy, one of the most affected areas in Europe during the first wave of COVID-19. [...] Read more.
In this study, we investigated the symptoms of physical and mental health associated with lifestyle changes due to a lockdown among the students of a university in Northern Italy, one of the most affected areas in Europe during the first wave of COVID-19. We examined the psychopathological variations in relation to mental health problems in a young population. The goal was to develop interventions to resolve these new psychosocial problems. From June to July 2020, students participated in an anonymous survey asking about habits and symptoms that emerged during the lockdown and the COVID-19 pandemic. Five health outcomes were assessed: digestive disorders; headaches; fear of COVID-19; panic and anxiety crises; and depression/sadness. The conditions and duration of the social isolation, lifestyle, SARS-CoV-2 infection in the household, financial situation, and productivity were considered in the analysis. A total of 3533 students completed the survey. The participants experienced headaches, depression and sadness, digestive disorders, a fear of COVID-19, and anxiety/panic crises. The duration of isolation was associated with an increased risk of digestive disorders, headaches, and COVID-19 fear. The female gender, medium–intense telephone usage, sleep quality, memory difficulties, and performance reduction were associated with an increased risk of the health outcomes. Future interventions should focus on promoting and implementing different habits with the support of health and university organizations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Psychological Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Different At-Risk Population Groups)
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13 pages, 734 KiB  
Article
Well-Being in the Context of COVID-19 and Quality of Life in Czechia
by Patrik Maturkanič, Ivana Tomanová Čergeťová, Irena Konečná, Vladimír Thurzo, Amantius Akimjak, Ľubomír Hlad, Jan Zimny, Marie Roubalová, Victoria Kurilenko, Martin Toman, Jozef Petrikovič and Lucia Petrikovičová
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(12), 7164; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19127164 - 10 Jun 2022
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2427
Abstract
The present study focuses on exploring the differences and relationship between well-being and experience of pastoral and psychological service of religious denomination based on religious affiliation during the first wave of the pandemic in Czechia. Our research has been focused on the investigation, [...] Read more.
The present study focuses on exploring the differences and relationship between well-being and experience of pastoral and psychological service of religious denomination based on religious affiliation during the first wave of the pandemic in Czechia. Our research has been focused on the investigation, comparison, and correlation between the level of well-being and pastoral and psychological service. The research sample (n = 1126) consisted of the Czech health population with age over 16 years, of which 42.4% were men (n = 478) and 57.5% were women (n = 648). From the perspective of religiosity, the study sample was divided in terms of religion into two groups—51.9% participants with religious affiliation (n = 584) and 48.1% participants without religious affiliation (n = 542). The level of well-being was identified by means of The Satisfaction with Life Scale (Diener, Emmons, Larsen, & Griffin, 1985). The level of experience with pastoral and psychological service was measured using our non-standardised questionnaire. The results confirmed the differences between the variables of well-being and positive experience with pastoral and psychological service based on religious affiliation. Moreover, we confirmed the hypothesis of a positive correlation between well-being and positive experience with pastoral and psychological service in Czechia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Psychological Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Different At-Risk Population Groups)
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16 pages, 1577 KiB  
Article
Resilience, Occupational Stress, Job Satisfaction, and Intention to Leave the Organization among Nurses and Midwives during the COVID-19 Pandemic
by Andrzej Piotrowski, Ewa Sygit-Kowalkowska, Ole Boe and Samir Rawat
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(11), 6826; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19116826 - 2 Jun 2022
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 6014
Abstract
The current study on the intention to leave the organization among nurses and midwives aligns with the broader direction of research on the consequences of demanding jobs. This is particularly important in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, which began in 2020 and [...] Read more.
The current study on the intention to leave the organization among nurses and midwives aligns with the broader direction of research on the consequences of demanding jobs. This is particularly important in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, which began in 2020 and is ongoing. The aim of the current study was to identify the levels of intention to leave the organization and job satisfaction in a sample of 390 Polish nurses and midwives. A multiple stepwise linear regression was carried out to establish which variables are predictors of job satisfaction and intention to leave the organization. The following measures were used in the study: Nurses’ Occupational Stressor Scale, The Brief Resilience Coping Scale, The Turnover Intention Scale, The Job Satisfaction Scale, and an occupational questionnaire (number of workplaces, weekly number of evening and night shifts, working at a unit dedicated to treating COVID-19, working as a supervisor/executive). The current study showed that almost 25% of the sample reported high turnover intention, and a similar proportion reported low job satisfaction. Resilience was related to nurses’ job satisfaction. In the predictive models for job satisfaction, the organizational factor of the number of workplaces was significant (positively related), while job experience was a negative predictor of intention to leave. The practical implications of the results and the need to continue research on this topic are also discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Psychological Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Different At-Risk Population Groups)
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14 pages, 667 KiB  
Article
Optimizing Strategies for Improving Mental Health in Victoria, Australia during the COVID-19 Era: A System Dynamics Modelling Study
by Catherine Vacher, Nicholas Ho, Adam Skinner, Jo Robinson, Louise Freebairn, Grace Yeeun Lee, Frank Iorfino, Ante Prodan, Yun Ju C. Song, Jo-An Occhipinti and Ian B. Hickie
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(11), 6470; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19116470 - 26 May 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2691
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the mental health of populations and highlighted the limitations of mental health care systems. As the trajectory of the pandemic and the economic recovery are still uncertain, decision tools are needed to help evaluate the best interventions [...] Read more.
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the mental health of populations and highlighted the limitations of mental health care systems. As the trajectory of the pandemic and the economic recovery are still uncertain, decision tools are needed to help evaluate the best interventions to improve mental health outcomes. We developed a system dynamics model that captures causal relationships among population, demographics, post-secondary education, health services, COVID-19 impact, and mental health outcomes. The study was conducted in the Australian state of Victoria. The model was calibrated using historical data and was stratified by age group and by geographic remoteness. Findings demonstrate that the most effective intervention combination includes economic, social, and health sector initiatives. Assertive post-suicide attempt care is the most impactful health sector intervention, but delaying implementation reduces the potency of its impact. Some evidence-based interventions, such as population-wide community awareness campaigns, are projected to worsen mental health outcomes when implemented on their own. Systems modelling offers a powerful decision-support tool to test alternative strategies for improving mental health outcomes in the Victorian context. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Psychological Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Different At-Risk Population Groups)
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13 pages, 357 KiB  
Article
Resource Threat versus Resource Loss and Emotional Well-Being of Ethnic Minorities during the COVID-19 Pandemic
by Rafael Youngmann and Nonna Kushnirovich
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(23), 12590; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182312590 - 29 Nov 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1589
Abstract
This paper used Hobfoll’s conservation of resources theory as a theoretical framework to investigate which kinds of resource loss predicted the emotional well-being (EWB) of ethnic minorities and majority populations during a period of crisis. Data were collected from a national representative survey [...] Read more.
This paper used Hobfoll’s conservation of resources theory as a theoretical framework to investigate which kinds of resource loss predicted the emotional well-being (EWB) of ethnic minorities and majority populations during a period of crisis. Data were collected from a national representative survey conducted by the Israel Central Bureau of Statistics during the COVID-19 pandemic. The sample included 1157 respondents, including 174 Israeli Palestinian citizens (ethnic minority) and 983 Israeli Jews (majority population). Measures of EWB, actual losses and threats of losses of economic, social, and health resources were examined. The results showed that the losses of economic, social, and health resources reduced the EWB of individuals. Negative effects of the actual losses of resources on EWB were greater than those of the perceived threats of loss. The largest effect was for economic resources. There were differences in effects between the ethnic minorities and the majority populations. The study revealed that for the ethnic minorities, who are less powerful and more disadvantaged than ethnic majorities, the depletion of already deficient resources during time of crisis is more important for predicting their EWB than for the majority populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Psychological Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Different At-Risk Population Groups)

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17 pages, 2368 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Association between Resilience and Psychological Distress during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Thanakrit Jeamjitvibool, Cherdsak Duangchan, Andria Mousa and Wiriya Mahikul
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(22), 14854; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192214854 - 11 Nov 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2728
Abstract
This study examined the association between resilience and psychological distress in healthcare workers, the general population, and patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. We searched the PubMed, Web of Science, PsycInfo, Science Direct, and Nursing and Allied Health databases. Included articles examined healthcare workers [...] Read more.
This study examined the association between resilience and psychological distress in healthcare workers, the general population, and patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. We searched the PubMed, Web of Science, PsycInfo, Science Direct, and Nursing and Allied Health databases. Included articles examined healthcare workers (e.g., physicians and nurses), the general population, and patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies of exposure to other infectious diseases related to epidemics or pandemics (e.g., SARS and MERS) were excluded. This study was performed following the Cooper matrix review method and PRISMA guidelines, followed by a meta-analysis of study results using R version 4.1.2. A random effect model was used for the pooled analysis. This study was registered with PROSPERO (registration No. CRD42021261429). Based on the meta-analysis, we found a moderate negative relationship between overall resilience and psychological distress (r = −0.42, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.45 to −0.38, p < 0.001). For the subgroup analysis, a moderately significant negative relationship between overall resilience and psychological distress was found among healthcare workers (r = −0.39, 95% CI: −0.44 to −0.33, p < 0.001), which was weaker than in the general population (r = −0.45, 95% CI: −0.50 to −0.39, p < 0.001) and in patients (r = −0.43; 95% CI: −0.52 to −0.33; p < 0.001). This association was robust, although the heterogeneity among individual effect sizes was substantial (I2 = 94%, 99%, and 74%, respectively). This study revealed a moderate negative relationship between resilience and psychological distress in healthcare workers, the general population, and patients. For all these populations, interventions and resources are needed to improve individuals’ resilience and ability to cope with psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic and in future disease outbreaks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Psychological Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Different At-Risk Population Groups)
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19 pages, 712 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Mental Health Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Older Adults in China: A Systematic Review
by Jingyuan Liu, Crystal Kwan, Jie Deng and Yuxi Hu
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(21), 14362; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192114362 - 2 Nov 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2470
Abstract
Considered at a high risk during the COVID-19 pandemic, older adults in China not only face the disadvantages caused by their relatively low immune systems, but also the challenges brought about by the complex psychological environment in which they spend this special period [...] Read more.
Considered at a high risk during the COVID-19 pandemic, older adults in China not only face the disadvantages caused by their relatively low immune systems, but also the challenges brought about by the complex psychological environment in which they spend this special period of their life. However, a thorough study on the impact of the pandemic on older adults’ mental health in China remains scant. Hence, this research aimed to investigate the question: What are the mental health outcomes and associated risk factors of the COVID-19 pandemic on older adults in China? Two Chinese academic databases (China National Knowledge Infrastructure and WANFANG DATA) as well as six English academic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, MEDLINE, Social Science, and Google Scholar) were searched while following PRISMA guidelines. Studies were selected according to the predetermined inclusion criteria. Further, relatively high detective rates of mental health disorders, including anxiety symptoms (4.9% to 48.6%), depression symptoms (13.8% to 58.7%), hypochondria (11.9%), suicidal ideation (4.1%), along with worries and fear (55.7%) were all reported. The COVID-19 pandemic has presented a threat to not only the physical, but also the psychological health of Chinese older adults. The most common risk factors of psychological distress among Chinese older adults were found in female gender, living in rural areas, coexisting chronic diseases, and insufficient knowledge about the COVID pandemic. As a result, government policy and psychological guidelines that are created in order to alleviate the adverse effects of COVID-19 on older adults’ mental health, need to be further developed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Psychological Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Different At-Risk Population Groups)
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