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Special Issue "One Year into the COVID-19 Crisis: Mental Health, Burnout, Trauma and Resilience"

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

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (25 February 2023) | Viewed by 30981

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Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Fabienne Glowacz

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Guest Editor

1. Department of Psychology, Université de Liège, 4000 LiÅ ge, Belgium
2. ARCh Research Unit (Adaptation, Resilience and Change), 4000 Liège, Belgium
Interests: COVID-19 crisis and mental health; resilience; psycho-social care; interpersonal violence; sexual violence; youth; desistance

Prof. Dr. Isabelle Hansez

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

1. Department of Psychology, Université de Liège, 4000 LiÅ ge, Belgium
2. ARCh Research Unit (Adaptation, Resilience and Change), 4000 Liège, Belgium
Interests: well-being at work; stress and burnout; work engagement

Prof. Dr. Adélaide Blavier

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

1. Department of Psychology, Université de Liège, 4000 LiÅ ge, Belgium
2. ARCh Research Unit (Adaptation, Resilience and Change), 4000 Liège, Belgium
Interests: psychological trauma; sexual Violence; sense of parental competence

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The COVID-19 pandemic crisis began in March 2020 with strict containment measures imposed in most countries to contain the spread of the virus. Recent studies have highlighted the deleterious effects of the first waves of COVID-19 on the mental health and well-being of the general population. More than a year has passed since the onset of the crisis, and psychological distress and emotional exhaustion among people of all ages are on the rise. Educational institutions, outpatient psychological and social care services, and residential services such as prisons and youth welfare institutions have been operating for more than a year under the pressure of the crisis and the associated health measures. In the face of the adversity of this long and unprecedented health crisis, people and institutions have had to "cope" and develop strategies to survive. It is essential to recognize the multiple traumas associated with this crisis in different population groups (in terms of age, gender, social level, social vulnerabilities, and sector of activity). It is also recommended to identify the different processes and types of resilience that have been developed during this crisis. The aim is to develop and strengthen policies that support the resilience of people and institutions in the post-COVID-19 crisis.

Prof. Dr. Fabienne Glowacz
Prof. Dr. Isabelle Hansez
Prof. Dr. Adélaide Blavier
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 semimonthly 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

impact of COVID-19 pandemic
trauma
mental health
burnout
well-being
psychosocial care workers
institutions
resilience
crisis exit process
post-COVID-19 crisis

Published Papers (18 papers)

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Research

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Open AccessArticle

“I Don’t Want to Go to Work”: A Mixed-Methods Analysis of Healthcare Worker Experiences from the Front- and Side-Lines of COVID-19

Kathleen Buford Cartmell

Sarah Griffin

and

Ann Blair Kennedy

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(11), 5953; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20115953 - 25 May 2023

Viewed by 572

Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare workers (HCW) were categorized as “essential” and “non-essential”, creating a division where some were “locked-in” a system with little ability to prepare for or control the oncoming crisis. Others were “locked-out” regardless of whether their skills might be useful. The purpose of this study was to systematically gather data over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic from HCW through an interprofessional lens to examine experiences of locked-out HCW. This convergent parallel mixed-methods study captured perspectives representing nearly two dozen professions through a survey, administered via social media, and video blogs. Analysis included logistic regression models of differences in outcome measures by professional category and Rapid Identification of Themes from Audio recordings (RITA) of video blogs. We collected 1299 baseline responses from 15 April 2020 to 16 March 2021. Of those responses, 12.1% reported no signs of burnout, while 21.9% reported four or more signs. Qualitative analysis identified four themes: (1) professional identity, (2) intrinsic stressors, (3) extrinsic factors, and (4) coping strategies. There are some differences in the experiences of locked-in and locked-out HCW. This did not always lead to differing reports of moral distress and burnout, and both groups struggled to cope with the realities of the pandemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Year into the COVID-19 Crisis: Mental Health, Burnout, Trauma and Resilience)

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Open AccessArticle

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Adolescent Self-Harm: Based on a National Emergency Department Information System

Ju-Hyeon Park

Young-Woo Seo

and

Seungbum Chae

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(5), 4666; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20054666 - 06 Mar 2023

Viewed by 700

Abstract

Republic of Korea’s suicide rate is the highest among Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development countries. In Republic of Korea, suicide is the leading cause of death among young people aged 10–19 years. This study aimed to identify changes in patients aged 10–19 years who visited the emergency department in Republic of Korea after inflicting self-harm over the past five years and to compare the situations before and after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Analysis of government data revealed that the average daily visits per 100,000 were 6.25, 8.18, 13.26, 15.31, and 15.71 from 2016 to 2020, respectively. The study formed four groups for further analysis, with the population divided by sex and age (10–14 and 15–19 years old). The late-teenage female group showed the sharpest increase and was the only group that continued to increase. A comparison of the figures 10 months before and after the outbreak of the pandemic revealed a statistically significant increase in self-harm attempts by only the late-teenage female group. Meanwhile, visits (per day) in the male group did not increase, but the rates of death and ICU admission increased. Additional studies and preparations that account for age and sex are warranted. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Year into the COVID-19 Crisis: Mental Health, Burnout, Trauma and Resilience)

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of the COVID-19 Crisis on the Practices and Mental Health of Psychologists in Belgium: Between Exhaustion and Resilience

Fabienne Glowacz

Emilie Schmits

and

Annabelle Kinard

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(21), 14410; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192114410 - 03 Nov 2022

Viewed by 899

Abstract

While the COVID-19 pandemic has created psychological distress in the general population and increased the need for psychological care, little research has been done on how mental health practitioners (MHP) have been affected by the pandemic, and these health professionals have received little attention from public authorities. In this article, we focus on psychologists and the impact that the pandemic has had on their mental health and practices by exploring the adaptive and innovative responses generated. This study is based on an online survey (including multiple choice questions, several validated scales, and eight free text items) completed by 187 psychologists (86% female) one year after the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in Belgium (February–April 2021). Most participants considered that the crisis had an impact on their well-being and mental health. However, the prevalence of symptoms of depression and anxiety was relatively low (17%; 12%). On the other hand, the majority of psychologists (72%) suffered from a medium level of burnout (BO), 7% suffered from a high level of BO, and only 21% had low levels of BO. Psychologists working in face-to-face settings had the highest scores on the “exhaustion” subscale of the BO, and those working primarily with patients in precarious situations had significantly higher scores of BO and exhaustion. Qualitative analysis of free text items showed that MHP were resilience and developed new frameworks and modes for proactive interventions in order to reach their patients, meet the psychological and social population’s needs, and maintain their relationships with the network. In a crisis or pandemic context, public policies should take into account the psychological and social needs of the most socially precarious populations in reinforcing and supporting mental health professionals working in this sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Year into the COVID-19 Crisis: Mental Health, Burnout, Trauma and Resilience)

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Job Stress, Role Ambiguity and Work–Life Imbalance on Turnover Intention during COVID-19: A Case Study of Frontline Health Workers in Saudi Arabia

Mohammed Alblihed

and

Haitham Ali Alzghaibi

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13132; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013132 - 12 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1773

Abstract

The main objective of the present study is to examine the impact of job stress, role ambiguity, work–life imbalance and burnout on employee turnover intention. Moreover, the mediating role of burnout between job stress, role ambiguity, work–life imbalance and turnover intention is also examined. The data collection for this quantitative research was conducted through the “Questionnaire” technique. The questionnaire was developed based on previously established questions available in the literature. The data were collected using simple random sampling from the healthcare workers of KSA. From the distributed questionnaire, 73.5% of the usable questionnaires were returned. This study used SPSS and PLS for the analysis of the data to highlight the most significant variables that impact the employees’ turnover intentions among KSA health workers. The findings show that job burnout is clearly related to turnover intentions and is positively affected by both role stress and role ambiguity. Moreover, a statistically positive association is found between work–life imbalance and burnout among the healthcare workers in KSA. Furthermore, the mediating role of burnout is also confirmed in this study. The study also indicates that role ambiguity and role stress due to COVID-19 may create burnout among employees, which may lead to turnover intention among healthcare workers. There is a lack of research on the assessment of the impact of the novel COVID-19-related job stress, role ambiguity and work–life imbalance on the medical staff’s turnover intentions in hospitals. This study fills the gap of the limited studies conducted regarding the identification of the factors that can create turnover intention among healthcare workers of KSA by providing empirical evidence from a Gulf country, Saudi Arabia. This study provides managerial implications for hospital management and health policymakers to develop a strategy to retain the employees. Furthermore, healthcare administrators need to pay close attention to front line workers’ turnover intentions as these medical heroes are the vital part of our society who assist patients to receive their initial treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Year into the COVID-19 Crisis: Mental Health, Burnout, Trauma and Resilience)

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Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Mental, Social, and Lifestyle Effects of a Positive COVID-19 Infection on Syrian Refugees in Jordan: A Qualitative Study

and

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(19), 12588; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191912588 - 02 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1049

Abstract

Migrants and refugees are among the vulnerable populations that suffered disproportionately from the COVID-19 crisis. However, their experiences with COVID-19 positivity status have not been investigated. This study explored the physical, mental, and psychosocial impacts of a positive COVID-19 diagnosis on Syrian refugees living in Jordan. Using a qualitative approach, twenty phone interviews were conducted with ten adult Syrian refugees living within the camp and ten refugees living in non-camp (host community) settings in Jordan. Follow-up interviews with five health care providers at a refugee camp were conducted to explore the services and support provided to the refugees with COVID-19 infection. The findings were thematically analyzed and grouped into major themes, subthemes, and emerging themes. Refugees living within camp settings had better access to testing, healthcare, and disease management and did not experience fear of being deported. Refugees in both settings suffered mental and psychosocial health impacts, social isolation, fear of death, and disease complications. COVID-19 infection has negatively impacted refugees’ well-being with noticeable disparities across the different living conditions. Refugees living within host community settings may need more support for managing their condition, accessibility to free testing, as well as treatment and healthcare services. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Year into the COVID-19 Crisis: Mental Health, Burnout, Trauma and Resilience)

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Open AccessArticle

Time in Service and Resilience in Active Military Personnel during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study in Northern Peru

Mario J. Valladares-Garrido

Yanela Huamani-Colquichagua

Claudia Anchay-Zuloeta

Cinthia K. Picón-Reátegui

and

Danai Valladares-Garrido

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 11052; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711052 - 03 Sep 2022

Viewed by 1085

Abstract

Greater occupational exposure may have a positive effect on the development of resilience. We aimed to determine the association between working time and resilience in Peruvian military personnel during the COVID-19 pandemic. A secondary data analysis was performed including 586 records of military personnel who supported the health emergency during the second epidemic wave in Lambayeque, Peru. Resilience was measured with the short form of the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC). Working time and other relevant covariates were collected by self-report. Generalized linear models were used. The mean resilience score was 22.18 and 43.2% scored high for resilience. Participants reported that they are strong individuals when facing difficulties (42.3%), are able to handle unpleasant feelings (40.3%), and achieve their goals despite obstacles (40.4%). Working more than 18 months was associated with a 35% higher prevalence of high resilience (PR: 1.35; 95% CI: 1.05–1.75). In conclusion, a notable number of military personnel experienced high levels of resilience during the pandemic. Working time may have played an important role in the development of this ability. Our findings could help guide the deployment and organization of the military in health emergency support missions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Year into the COVID-19 Crisis: Mental Health, Burnout, Trauma and Resilience)

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Open AccessArticle

Earlier Bedtime and Effective Coping Skills Predict a Return to Low-Risk of Depression in Young Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Massimiliano de Zambotti

and

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10300; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610300 - 18 Aug 2022

Viewed by 1396

Abstract

To determine the persistent effects of the pandemic on mental health in young adults, we categorized depressive symptom trajectories and sought factors that promoted a reduction in depressive symptoms in high-risk individuals. Specifically, longitudinal analysis investigated changes in the risk for depression before and during the pandemic until December 2021 in 399 young adults (57% female; age range: 22.8 ± 2.6 years) in the United States (U.S.) participating in the National Consortium on Alcohol and NeuroDevelopment in Adolescence (NCANDA) study. The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D-10) was administered multiple times before and during the pandemic. A score ≥10 identified individuals at high-risk for depression. Self-reported sleep behavior, substance use, and coping skills at the start of the pandemic were assessed as predictors for returning to low-risk levels while controlling for demographic factors. The analysis identified four trajectory groups regarding depression risk, with 38% being at low-risk pre-pandemic through 2021, 14% showing persistent high-risk pre-pandemic through 2021, and the remainder converting to high-risk either in June 2020 (30%) or later (18%). Of those who became high-risk in June 2020, 51% were no longer at high-risk in 2021. Logistic regression revealed that earlier bedtime and, for the older participants (mid to late twenties), better coping skills were associated with this declining risk. Results indicate divergence in trajectories of depressive symptoms, with a considerable number of young adults developing persistent depressive symptoms. Healthy sleep behavior and specific coping skills have the potential to promote remittance from depressive symptoms in the context of the pandemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Year into the COVID-19 Crisis: Mental Health, Burnout, Trauma and Resilience)

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Open AccessArticle

Changes in Canadian Adolescent Well-Being since the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Role of Prior Child Maltreatment

and

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10172; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610172 - 17 Aug 2022

Viewed by 1238

Abstract

Adolescents may be particularly vulnerable to the negative impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, given their increased socialization needs during this developmental period. This prospective study examined the potential changes in adolescents’ well-being from before to during the pandemic, and the moderating role of a history of child maltreatment (CM), COVID-19-related distress, and gender among 1,802 adolescents (55.5% participants identified as boy, 42.2% as girl, and 1.5% as nonbinary; M_age 14.74 years). Another aim was to determine whether COVID-19-related distress mediated the relationship between CM and well-being. Results revealed that COVID-19-related distress was associated with lower well-being (i.e., higher levels of internalized and externalized behaviors, and lower levels of self-esteem and life satisfaction). Boys experienced a greater decrease in life satisfaction and self-esteem than girls. A history of CM had a moderation effect, with the pandemic having a lesser impact on the outcomes of adolescents with such a history. However, it was also associated with more COVID-19-related distress, which in turn was associated with lower levels of internalized and externalized behaviors, self-esteem, and life satisfaction. These unexpected results with regard to CM might indicate that the social restrictions during the pandemic could have had a relieving effect on adolescents with particular challenges associated with CM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Year into the COVID-19 Crisis: Mental Health, Burnout, Trauma and Resilience)

Open AccessArticle

Maternal Competence, Maternal Burnout and Personality Traits in Italian Mothers after the First COVID-19 Lockdown

and

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 9791; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19169791 - 09 Aug 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1197

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the maternal sense of competence and maternal burnout in Italian mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The sample was composed of 278 mothers of children/adolescents aged 4 to 17 years old. Participants were recruited after the end of the first spring total Italian lockdown (June–October 2020) through online advertisements on websites and social media. We hypothesized a model in which a specific personality trait, such as neuroticism, affected maternal competence by the mediating role of maternal burnout. Results showed that neuroticism was directly and negatively predictive of perception of maternal competence, and it was negatively associated with maternal burnout, specifically specific antecedents that were strictly related to parental burnout. ANOVA results highlighted that the maternal level of education affected maternal competence in terms of satisfaction. In contrast, the working regimen during the first lockdown for COVID-19 affected maternal competence in terms of efficacy. Maternal burnout was affected by atypical child development in terms of both common (job burnout, stress management abilities) and specific (parental burnout) antecedents. COVID-19 strongly increased the risk of maternal burnout, resulting in mothers having a poor perception of their own competency. This is particularly the case in the presence of a neurotic personality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Year into the COVID-19 Crisis: Mental Health, Burnout, Trauma and Resilience)

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Open AccessArticle

“We Were Afraid”: Mental Health Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Two South African Districts

Samanta Tresha Lalla-Edward

and

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(15), 9217; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19159217 - 28 Jul 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2423

Abstract

The impacts of pandemics are recognized to go beyond infection, physical suffering, and socio-economic disruptions. Other consequences include psychological responses. Using a mental wellbeing lens, we analyzed COVID-19-related stressors in healthcare workers (HCWs) and community members who provided and regularly accessed health services in South Africa, respectively. From February to September 2021, during the second COVID-19 wave we conducted a qualitative study in one urban and one rural district. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect data among 43 HCWs and 51 community members purposely and conveniently selected. Most participants experienced mental health challenges regarding multiple aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic and its resulting lockdown, with a few reporting positive adjustments to change. COVID-19 impacts on mental health were consistent among both HCWs and community members in urban and rural alike. Participants’ COVID-19-induced psychological responses included anxiety and fear of the unknown, perceived risk of infection, fear of hospitalization, and fear of dying. Physical effects of the pandemic on participants included COVID-19 infection and associated symptoms, possibilities of severe illness and discomfort of using personal protective equipment. These distresses were exacerbated by social repercussions related to concerns for family wellbeing and infection stigma. Lockdown regulations also intensified anxieties about financial insecurities and social isolation. At times when common coping mechanisms such as family support were inaccessible, cultural consequences related to lack of spiritual gatherings and limited funeral rites posed additional stress on participants. In preparation for future public health emergencies, recognition needs to be given to mental health support and treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Year into the COVID-19 Crisis: Mental Health, Burnout, Trauma and Resilience)

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Open AccessArticle

“Room to Reflect”: A Pilot Workplace Resiliency Intervention for Nurses

Claiborne Miller-Davis

and

Susan Galloway

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(12), 7272; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19127272 - 14 Jun 2022

Viewed by 2797

Abstract

Rising workload demands for nurses necessitate the implementation of easily accessible and innovative clinician well-being resources on health care units. This pre/post pilot study sought to measure the impact of a mobile workplace intervention, “Room to Reflect” on staff nurse and nurse manager resilience. A mobile toolbox with a sound machine, Virtual Reality headset, and associated Quick Response code audio/video offerings, and a paper Pocket Guide of mindful restoration practices were provided to 7 health care units for a 3 month period. Pre/post questionnaires assessed perceived resilience using the Connor-Davidson Resilience scale, and intervention feasibility (ease of use), accessibility (spaces used), and effectiveness (restoration). Data analysis consisted of descriptive statistics, paired and independent samples t-tests, and Wilcoxon Signed Rank tests. From the pre (n = 97) to post (n = 57) intervention period, there was a significant difference in resilience for Clinician 3 staff nurses. A mean increase in resilience was noted among nurse managers following participation in the intervention, z = −2.03, p < 0.05. The Pocket Guide was the easiest offering to use, while VR offerings were accessed the most through Quick Response code. Space and time were the most common barriers to Room to Reflect use. Staff nurses felt supported by managers to use the program, and managers perceived that the program improved nurse job satisfaction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Year into the COVID-19 Crisis: Mental Health, Burnout, Trauma and Resilience)

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Open AccessArticle

At the Peak of the Second Wave of COVID-19, Did Millennials Show Different Emotional Responses from Older Adults?

Aurélie Wagener

Céline Stassart

and

Anne-Marie Etienne

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(10), 5908; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19105908 - 12 May 2022

Viewed by 1330

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic disturbs mental health. Indeed, higher levels of negative emotions and anxiety, along with lower levels of positive emotions and well-being, have been highlighted. As a result, individuals need to regulate these psychological states in a context of uncertainty and daily restrictions (e.g., access to leisure activities, social contacts) or modifications of livelihood (e.g., working modalities). Overall, psychological reactions to the pandemic have been shown to differ based on one’s age. The purpose of this research is to compare psychological reactions to the pandemic between Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) and Older Adults. The generation’s prism seems relevant as members of specific generations are shaped (e.g., views of the world, the future) by their similar experiences. Ninety-four Millennials and 129 Older Adults, recruited in the general population, participated to an online survey assessing emotions, emotion regulation strategies, environmental satisfaction, and intolerance of uncertainty. Results show that Millennials experience higher levels of negative emotions along with higher levels of worry and rumination than Older Adults. Millennials also report a higher level of joy. Nonetheless, more Older Adults engage themselves in novel activities. Overall, findings confirm previous ones and indicate the need to offer effective clinicals tool to prevent mental health worsening. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Year into the COVID-19 Crisis: Mental Health, Burnout, Trauma and Resilience)

Open AccessArticle

Emotions, Stress and Coping among Healthcare Workers in a Reproductive Medicine Unit during the First and Second COVID-19 Lockdowns

and

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(10), 5899; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19105899 - 12 May 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1155

Abstract

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global healthcare workers’ (HCWs) mental health has been well documented in the last two years; however, little is known regarding HCWs working in specific healthcare fields. During two subsequent periods of national lockdown in Italy (June–July 2020, T1, and November–December 2020, T2), a total sample of 47 HCWs working in a reproductive medicine hospital unit completed an ad hoc questionnaire for assessing emotional reactions to the pandemic, stress symptoms, and ways of coping. Moderate–high levels of anger and sadness were experienced by 65.9% and 68.1% of the HCWs, respectively, while moderate–high levels of anxiety and fear were experienced by 51.1% and 56.8%, respectively. Higher stress symptoms experienced by HCWs were hypervigilance, avoidance of thoughts and memories, and tiredness/low energy. At T2, levels of hypervigilance, irritability, intrusive thoughts, and detachment were higher than at T1, while avoidance of external triggers decreased. Moderate–high levels of anxiety resulted significantly associated with several symptoms of stress: irritability/fearfulness, depression/hopelessness, tiredness/low energy, problems with concentration, and intrusive thoughts. Regarding coping strategies, HCWs tended to adopt more problem-focused coping (e.g., contributing to improving a situation) and this tendency was higher at T2. Overall findings suggest a risk for the persistence of stress symptoms and, therefore, a risk for a chronic course, which might interfere with the global quality of mental health at work and the care provided to patients. Clinical implications highlight the relevance of implementing support programs for this category of HCWs focused on the elaboration of negative emotions and on fostering adaptive coping strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Year into the COVID-19 Crisis: Mental Health, Burnout, Trauma and Resilience)

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Open AccessArticle

Social Determinants of Health and Distance Learning in Italy in the Era of the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic

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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(9), 5741; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19095741 - 09 May 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1043

Abstract

Objectives: To investigate the experiences by distance learning (DL) method during the first wave of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in Italy, and to search for correlations with purported experiences and respective levels of social determinants of health (SDH). Study design and methods: Cross-sectional online survey, investigating various SDH and parents’ attitude towards DL, proposed 6 months after the beginning of the pandemic to a sample population of parents with school-aged children throughout Italy. Results: A total of 3791 questionnaires were analyzed. Non-Italian parents complained more frequently of difficulties in providing support to their children in DL due to poor digital skills (p = 0.01), lack of good-quality digital equipment (p = 0.01), problems with the Italian language (p < 0.001), and a lower level of education (p < 0.001). When parents lived apart, greater difficulties in concentration in children using DL (p = 0.05) and a lower parental capacity to support DL (p = 0.002) were reported. Adequate digital structures appeared related to living in owned compared to rented property, higher levels of parental education, and better familial financial situations. Conclusions: Students from families with financial difficulties and low levels of parental education, or even those living in houses for rent or having separated parents, may be disadvantaged in an educational context since the introduction of DL. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Year into the COVID-19 Crisis: Mental Health, Burnout, Trauma and Resilience)

Open AccessArticle

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Burnout in Primary Care Physicians in Catalonia

Gemma Seda-Gombau

Juan José Montero-Alía

Eduard Moreno-Gabriel

and

Pere Torán-Monserrat

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(17), 9031; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18179031 - 27 Aug 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2586

Abstract

Background: Recent demands to raise the clinical quality, improve the patient experience, and decrease costs have progressively increased burnout among primary care physicians. This overstretched situation has been greatly aggravated since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of the study is to analyse the prevalence of burnout among primary care physicians and to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on burnout. Methods: This was a multicentre longitudinal descriptive study of occupational factors and burnout before and since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to assess the impact of the pandemic on burnout in primary care physicians, two paired groups of physicians were compared using Wilcoxon’s and McNemar’s tests. Results: In January 2019, 10% of primary care physicians scored high on all burnout domains. Seven months into the COVID-19 pandemic (October 2020), this percentage increased to 50%. Paired groups analysis showed unprecedented worsening due to the pandemic: emotional exhaustion, which already affected 55% of primary care physicians, jumped to 77%. Conclusions: Burnout is endemic among primary care physicians. It has been associated with lower patient satisfaction, reduced health outcomes, and increased costs. The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed burnout in primary care professionals to the edge. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Year into the COVID-19 Crisis: Mental Health, Burnout, Trauma and Resilience)

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Open AccessArticle

Psychological Distress among Students in Higher Education: One Year after the Beginning of the COVID-19 Pandemic

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Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(14), 7445; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18147445 - 12 Jul 2021

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3307

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the psychological well-being of students. Several stressors (such as socioeconomic and education-related contexts) could influence mental health, as well as individual and relational dimensions. This study proposes to evaluate the predictive effect of these factors on anxiety and depressive symptoms among students in higher education one year after the beginning of the pandemic. A sample of 23,307 students (Mage = 20.89; SD = 1.96; 69.08% of women) was assessed through an online self-report questionnaire including adapted and validated measures. The main rates were as follows: 50.6% of students presented anxiety symptoms; 55.1% reported depressive symptoms; 20.8% manifested suicidal ideations; 42.4% saw their financial situation deteriorate; 39.1% felt they were dropping out of school. One year after the beginning of the pandemic, students in higher education are anxious and depressed, especially those who identify as women (for both anxiety and depression) and as a non-binary gender (only for anxiety), experience a deterioration in their financial situation, are dropping out of school, or manifest hostility (for both anxiety and depression). The degree of study affects the symptoms’ severity (Bachelor 2 and 3 for anxiety and Master for depression). Contact with family and friends (for both anxiety and depression) as well as regular physical activity (only for depression) should provide some protection against psychological distress. Policy-makers must make a long-term investment in the well-being and positive mental health of the student community. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Year into the COVID-19 Crisis: Mental Health, Burnout, Trauma and Resilience)

Review

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Open AccessReview

Global Healthcare Needs Related to COVID-19: An Evidence Map of the First Year of the Pandemic

Mariana Aparicio Betancourt

Lilisbeth Perestelo-Pérez

Jaime Barrio-Cortes

María Teresa Beca-Martínez

Almudena Molina Serrano

Carlos Jesús Bermejo-Caja

and

Ana Isabel González-González

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(16), 10332; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610332 - 19 Aug 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1652

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed gaps and areas of need in health systems worldwide. This work aims to map the evidence on COVID-19-related healthcare needs of adult patients, their family members, and the professionals involved in their care during the first year of the pandemic. We searched the databases MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science. Two reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts and assessed full texts for eligibility. Disagreements were resolved by consensus. Descriptive data were extracted and inductive qualitative content analysis was used to generate codes and derive overarching themes. Thirty-six studies met inclusion criteria, with the majority reporting needs from the perspective of professionals (35/36). Professionals’ needs were grouped into three main clusters (basic, occupational, and psycho-socio-emotional needs); patients’ needs into four (basic, healthcare, psycho-socio-emotional, and other support needs); and family members’ needs into two (psycho-socio-emotional and communication needs). Transversal needs across subgroups were also identified and grouped into three main clusters (public safety, information and communication, and coordination and support needs). This evidence map provides valuable insight on COVID-19-related healthcare needs. More research is needed to assess first-person perspectives of patients and their families, examine whether needs differ by country or region, and evaluate how needs have evolved over time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Year into the COVID-19 Crisis: Mental Health, Burnout, Trauma and Resilience)

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Open AccessReview

Mental Health Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Mexican Population: A Systematic Review

Yazmín Hernández-Díaz

Alma Delia Genis-Mendoza

Miguel Ángel Ramos-Méndez

Isela Esther Juárez-Rojop

Carlos Alfonso Tovilla-Zárate

Thelma Beatriz González-Castro

María Lilia López-Narváez

and

Humberto Nicolini

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(11), 6953; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19116953 - 06 Jun 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2133

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on mental health in the general population, but no systematic synthesis of evidence of this effect has been undertaken for the Mexican population. Relevant studies were identified through the systematic search in five databases until December, 2021. The selection of studies and the evaluation of their methodological quality were performed in pairs. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used for study quality appraisal. The protocol of this systematic review was registered with PROSPERO (protocol ID: CRD42021278868). This review included 15 studies, which ranged from 252 to 9361 participants, with a total of 26,799 participants. The findings show that COVID-19 has an impact on the Mexican population’s mental health and is particularly associated with anxiety, depression, stress and distress. Females and younger age are risk factors for development mental health symptoms. Mitigating the negative effects of COVID-19 on mental health should be a public health priority in Mexico. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Year into the COVID-19 Crisis: Mental Health, Burnout, Trauma and Resilience)

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