Neurodevelopmental disorders are prevalent worldwide, with an increase in diagnoses in recent years (Faraone et al. Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2021; 789-818; Russel et al. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2022; 674-682). Individuals diagnosed with conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) and Language Development Disorder (DLD) are considered neurodivergent and constitute the so-called neurominorities (Doyle, N. British medical bulletin 2020; 108-125). Studies have shown that adults with ADHD and ASD have lower scores when assessed for quality of life, compared to neurotypicals (Pinho et al, J Atten Disord 2019; 1736-1745; Sáez-Suanes & Álvarez-Couto, Rev J Autism Dev Disord 2022; 307-319).

The present study aims to describe the quality of life of neurodivergent students.

The research was cross-sectional, prospective and quantitative. The project was approved by the Research Ethics Committee. A total of 79 neurodivergent university students from public and private universities in the State of São Paulo participated in the research. The study was carried out remotely through the Google Forms platform with application of the TCLE and WHOQOL-DIS instruments.

It was observed that 30% of the participants had a diagnosis of ASD, while 48% had ADHD, 8% had ADD, 14% had ASD with ADHD and none had a diagnosis of DLD or SLD. It is worth mentioning that in the questions about quality of life and health, 18% were dissatisfied. Regarding the ability to perform tasks, 13% reported that physical pain prevented them and 70% reported needing medical treatment. Regarding levels of personal satisfaction, 37% said they were dissatisfied with their sleep, 20% were not satisfied as a person and 28% scored completely dissatisfied with access to health services. Regarding well-being and neurodivergence, 30% of the participants were completely unhappy and 15% stated that their limitation had a negative effect on their life. Regarding autonomy, belonging, and self-perception, 23% reported total dissatisfaction with their communication skills and 41% stated that they were completely dissatisfied with their involvement in social activities. Finally, regarding strengths and weaknesses, 32% of the subjects reported not being at all satisfied with their work opportunities, 29% were in the same situation regarding the adaptations of the environment to their limitations, and 14% reported dissatisfaction with study opportunities.

This study was able to analyze the perspective on the quality of life of neurodivergent university students. However, due to the various biases that involve this population, it is necessary to seek broader answers, looking at the national scope to provide a better understanding of quality of life, including in the academic environment.

None Declared

Empathy is essential in psychiatry, and emotion regulation significantly influences it. This study investigates the link between emotion regulation difficulties and empathic abilities in Tunisian psychiatry trainees.

This study aimed to explore the connection between empathic abilities and challenges in emotion regulation among Tunisian psychiatry trainees.

A cross-sectional study was carried out involving an online survey proposed to 120 Tunisian psychiatry trainees. The survey included the Interpersonal Reactivity Index, which features four subscales: Perspective Taking (PT), Empathic Concern (EC), Personal Distress (PD), and Fantasy Scale (FS). A cut-off score of 14 was set to differentiate between low and high empathy levels for each subscale. Additionally, the survey included the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS), which evaluates six types of emotion regulation challenges.

The proportion of responses was 71% and the mean empathy subscores were: (19.04 ± 3.95) for PT, (20.41 ± 3.71) for EC, (12.67 ± 4.41) for PD and (16.40 ± 4.91) for FS. Eleven participants showed low levels of PT and 30 showed high scores of PD. Empathy dimensions’ scores, mainly those of PT and PD, were correlated with ER difficulties. PT scores were negatively correlated with five ER difficulties and PD scores were positively correlated with six ER difficulties of the DERS.

Lower levels of PT were associated to difficulties engaging in goal-directed behaviors (p=0.038) and impulse control difficulties (p=0.004) furthermore higher scores of PD were associated to difficulties engaging in goal-directed behaviors (p=10-3), impulse control difficulties (p=10-3), strategy (p=0.003), non-acceptance (p=0.001) and clarity (p=0.001).

Difficulties with emotion regulation were positively associated with personal distress and negatively associated with perspective-taking abilities. Our findings highlight the significance of emotion regulation processes in improving empathic skills.

None Declared

Empathy, a key component of an effective physician-patient relationship, is understood as a multifaceted socio-cognitive ability influenced by various cognitive, emotional, social factors. While it has been extensively studied in medical students and healthcare professionals overall, there is limited research on empathy skills among psychiatrists, whose profession especially demands a strong capacity for empathy in their practice.

This study aimed to explore the different facets of empathy among Tunisian psychiatry trainees and assess their connections with demographic, occupational, emotional, and social variables.

Across-sectional study was conducted. An online survey was proposed to 120 Tunisian psychiatry trainees. In addition to sociodemographic and work-related variables, it comprised the Davis’s Interpersonal Reactivity Index, a 28-item tool used for a multidimensional assessment of empathy with four distinct subscales: Perspective taking(PT), Empathic concern(EC), Personal distress(PD) and Fantasy scale(FS). The survey also included the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale(DERS), the Perceived Stress Scale(PSS), the Social Support Questionnaire(SSQ) and the General Self-Efficacy Scale(SE). Factors associated with empathy were evaluated using t test/ANOVA for categorical variables and correlation for continuous predictors.

The total participation rate was 71% and the mean empathy subscores were as follows: 19.04 ± 3.95 for PT, 20.41 ± 3.71 for EC, 12.67 ± 4.41 for PD and 16.40 ± 4.91 for FS. Empathy dimensions’ scores were significantly associated with the rank in the siblings, mother’s level of education, satisfactory relationship with the mother, extra-professional activities and personal psychiatric history. They also were associated with work-related factors such as the year of residency, the desired choice of specialty, the training in a general hospital with a consultation-liaison psychiatry and the perceived verbal aggression from colleagues.

Empathy dimensions’ scores, mainly those of PT and PD, were correlated with emotion regulation difficulties. In fact, PT scores were negatively correlated with five of the six emotion regulation difficulties and PD scores were positively correlated with all the six emotion regulation difficulties of the DERS. EC scores were positively correlated with PSS total score and the number of social supports. PT scores were positively correlated with SE total score and PD scores were negatively correlated with SE total score.

Our findings underscore empathy’s complexity, revealing that in psychiatry trainees, it is shaped by contextual, emotional, and social factors. Without assessing these dimensions and mediators, empathy remains a theoretical concept rather than a teachable and improvable skill.

None Declared

Autism Spectrum Disorder is usually diagnosed in early childhood, but an increasing number of adults are identified as autistic later in life (Huang et al., 2020). Many experience frustration due to missed early intervention opportunities. The lack of recognition of their condition during childhood or adolescence may have contributed to secondary mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression or low self-esteem, complicating the adjustment process after diagnosis (Bargiela et al., 2019). However, providing appropriate support can enhance their quality of life and promote better mental health outcomes.

To assess the patient’s clinical case to identify autism spectrum disorder in older adulthood.

A 23-year-old male patient complained of an inability to concentrate, stress and fear when around people, and difficulties in social situations. Objectively observed: stereotyped movements, noticeable anxiety, avoidance of eye contact, non-compliance with social rules, specific language use and slow thinking. The patient had no history of diagnosed psychiatric illness. Since childhood, he has disliked the feeling of clothes touching his body, physical contact with others, making eye contact. The patient also exhibited impaired social development, being unable to initiate and maintain relationships with peers. Stereotypical, repetitive movements, sensory processing deviations have been observed since childhood. The patient has various phobias from a young age. Psychological examination revealed insufficient attention with observed fluctuations, impaired attention-shifting ability. The pace is very slow, the thinking is characterized by an average level of generalization, concreteness, and stereotypy. Personality traits included rigidity, depression, compulsiveness, internal tension. Based on the clinical picture and psychological tests, the patient was diagnosed with F84.0 Autistic Disorder, according to the International Classification of Diseases, 10 th Revision. In this case, the following methods were used in the assessment: Kraepelin’s and Schulte’s methods, pictograms, the 4-1 method, the Childhood Autism Rating Scale.

The literature highlights that ASD involves difficulties in social interaction, repetitive behaviors, sensory sensitivities, and distinct thinking patterns. Up to 90% of individuals with ASD experience sensory irregularities, which is consistent with this case, as the patient shows social challenges, repetitive movements, slow thinking, and sensory issues. Diagnosing autism in adulthood can improve quality of life by fostering understanding and access to support. In this case, the patient’s past social and workplace difficulties may be attributed to autism, guiding the development of effective support strategies.

In conclusion, while a late autism diagnosis can be life-changing, it also comes with unique challenges that must be addressed through appropriate support.

None Declared

Workers on helplines such as the “10306 Support Line” play a critical role in offering confidential, empathetic support to individuals in crisis, providing a secure environment for those grappling with anxiety, depression, or suicidal ideation. However, the high level of responsibility, extended hours, and often distressing nature of the calls can place substantial strain on the mental and physical health of these support line professionals.

The primary aim of this study is to examine the psychosocial risk factors and resulting physical and psychological impacts on employees of the “10306 Psychosocial Support Line”, with the intention of contributing to strategies for managing employee challenges, preventing stress-related symptoms, and promoting best practices for the mental and physical wellbeing of staff.

This cross-sectional quantitative study will involve all health professionals working on the 10306 Support Line, using survey methods to evaluate psychosocial and physical impacts. The following validated psychometric tools were used:

• - Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI): measuring burnout levels and the emotional toll associated with support line work.

• - Sense of Coherence Scale (SOC): assessing individuals’ capacity to manage stress and maintain well-being.

The study results indicate burnout levels among “10306 Support Line” workers. CBI scores reveal that 55.3% of participants experience personal burnout, 47.4% report work-related burnout, and 39.5% face burnout related to caller interactions. A strong negative correlation was found between burnout and the Sense of Coherence (SOC) scores, suggesting that a higher SOC is associated with reduced burnout. Additionally, younger participants reported higher personal and work-related burnout levels than their older counterparts, highlighting age as a potential risk factor for increased burnout symptoms among support line professionals.

The high prevalence of burnout among 10306 Support Line employees highlights a critical need for ongoing mental health support and targeted stress management. Strengthening the Sense of Coherence (SOC) and addressing age-related risk factors may enhance resilience and well-being among support line professionals, supporting both their health and the quality of psychosocial care provided to those in need.

None Declared

Treating substance-dependent mothers and their children presents unique challenges in psychiatric and psychotherapeutic practice. These cases require intensive, coordinated interventions that span mental health, social support, and medical care. Substance dependence in mothers can disrupt early attachment, increase psychiatric risk in children, and challenge the therapeutic alliance. Effective intervention demands seamless interdisciplinary collaboration to provide holistic care that supports recovery and strengthens maternal-infant bonds.

This study examines the role of interdisciplinary collaboration in psychiatric and psychotherapeutic care for substance-dependent mothers and their children. Specifically, it aims to assess how collaborative frameworks between psychiatrists, psychotherapists, and allied mental health professionals impact therapeutic outcomes, focusing on reducing burnout and enhancing resilience among care providers.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 91 mental health professionals across 12 agencies involved in the care of substance-dependent mothers and their children. Participants completed an electronic questionnaire assessing demographic data, collaboration experiences, and perceptions of treatment effectiveness. The Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI-22) and Resilience Evaluation Scale (RES) were utilized to measure burnout and resilience, exploring their influence on therapeutic collaboration and patient outcomes.

Findings show that interdisciplinary collaboration positively correlates with enhanced resilience and lower burnout among professionals, factors crucial in maintaining therapeutic efficacy. Significant associations were found between demographic factors—such as age, gender, and years of service—and both resilience and burnout. Increased resilience appeared to support deeper therapeutic engagement, while low burnout levels were associated with sustained therapeutic consistency.

Interdisciplinary and interagency collaboration is essential in the psychiatric and psychotherapeutic treatment of substance-dependent mothers and their children. Resilience fosters more effective therapeutic engagement, while low burnout levels support sustainable practice. These findings underscore the value of collaborative, resilient mental health teams in achieving positive psychotherapeutic outcomes for this vulnerable population.

None Declared

The Internet has become an indispensable component of contemporary life, enabling communication, work, and leisure activities. However, with its increasing use, concerns are emerging regarding problematic internet use (PIU) and its effects on physical and mental health. PIU has been associated with a range of adverse outcomes, including reduced physical activity, depression, and anxiety. It is of paramount importance to gain insight into the complex relationship between internet use, physical activity, and mental health in order to develop effective interventions that can mitigate the adverse effects associated with these factors.

The objective was to quantify the extent of internet usage among participants and to analyze its potential association with physical activity, depression, and anxiety.

The study sample consisted of 119 individuals from Patras. The data were collected using a set of validated questionnaires, including:

The Problematic Internet Use Questionnaire was employed to ascertain the extent of problematic internet use (PIU).

The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was employed to assess the frequency and intensity of the participants’ physical activity.

The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) was employed to evaluate the presence and severity of depressive symptoms.

The Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scale was employed to assess the levels of anxiety experienced by the participants.

The results indicate that a moderate level of problematic internet use is prevalent among the participants, with the majority spending more than four hours online daily. The analysis demonstrated that while increased internet use did not significantly impact the frequency or intensity of physical activity, there was a significant positive correlation between problematic internet use (PIU) and both depression and anxiety levels. As problematic internet use (PIU) increased, so did the symptoms of depression and anxiety.

The study highlights the potential mental health risks associated with problematic internet use. Despite no observed impact on physical activity levels, the strong association between PIU and elevated depression and anxiety symptoms suggests a need for targeted interventions. Addressing PIU could play a crucial role in improving mental health outcomes, emphasizing the importance of developing strategies to manage internet usage effectively.

None Declared

Work-related mental health issues are becoming increasingly prevalent, particularly in professions involving direct communication and care, such as healthcare. Primary Health Care (PHC) plays a critical role in prevention, health promotion, and the management of emergency situations. The mental and emotional well-being of healthcare professionals in PHC is essential for maintaining high levels of performance and work effectiveness. However, there is limited research on the psychosocial conditions of healthcare staff in PHC settings, particularly regarding anxiety, stress, depression, and psychological distress.

The objective of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of anxiety, stress, depression, and psychological distress among medical and nursing staff working in primary healthcare units in Peloponnese. Additionally, the study aims to examine the associations between these mental health indicators and various individual and professional characteristics, such as age, gender, and professional role.

An online survey was conducted to gather data from a final sample of 103 healthcare professionals. A questionnaire was constructed ad hoc and comprised two well-established measurement tools. The Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) was employed to assess anxiety, stress, and depression, while the K6+ was used as a self-report measure to evaluate psychological distress.

The results demonstrated that the participants exhibited generally low levels of anxiety, stress, and depression. As indicated by the DASS-21 scale, approximately 75% of respondents reported minimal to no anxiety, with only 7.8% reporting severe anxiety. Similarly, 75% of respondents indicated minimal to no stress, with only 4% reporting severe stress. Regarding depressive symptoms, 76% of participants exhibited minimal to no depressive symptoms, while only 4% demonstrated severe depressive symptoms. However, approximately 20% of the sample exhibited signs of psychological distress, which may indicate a significant mental health concern. Significant correlations were found through statistical analysis: older employees exhibited lower levels of anxiety, while nursing staff demonstrated higher levels of anxiety compared to medical staff. Additionally, women reported higher anxiety levels than their male colleagues.

In conclusion, while anxiety, stress, and depression levels are generally low among healthcare professionals, a notable portion of the workforce is at risk of serious psychological distress. These findings indicate the need for targeted mental health interventions, particularly for younger staff, nurses, and female employees, to ensure the well-being of healthcare professionals and maintain the efficacy of primary healthcare services.

None Declared

Families of patients with mental illness in Japan face the stigma and the significant burden of caregiving. The average hospital stay for psychiatric patients in Japan was 276.3 days in 2022. Strengthening community support for patients with mental illness and their families requires targeted support that promotes recovery for both patients and their families.

To clarify the attitudes and perceptions of psychiatric home-visiting nurses toward family support in the community, aiming to empower families of patients with mental illness and identify key support issues for family recovery.

1. 1) A 30-item, web-based, anonymous questionnaire survey was conducted involving psychiatric home-visiting nurses who care for patients with mental illness The survey measured respondents’ background information and perceptions regarding the frequency and importance of family care practices.

2. 2) Simple tabulations of the questionnaire items were performed, and the frequency of implementation was examined and related. 3) Items perceived as important but infrequently implemented were identified.

Sixty-six home-visiting nurses participated in the survey. The findings showed that 97% of respondents expressed interest in family support, 74% had family support experience, and 52% had attended family support training programs.

A significant correlation was observed between the perceived importance of family support and its perceived frequency of implementation across all items. The four items identified as important but less frequently implemented were:

Q08. Referring to other professional organizations for unresolved issues (22.7%).

Q11. Encouraging active participation from each patient and family member (20.6%).

Q12. Informing family members about the patient’s situation, so that they can work together to ensure the patient’s well-being (40.6%).

Q13. Encouraging patients to express appreciation to the family when needed (36.7%).

The survey results indicate that family care items requiring patient engagement or collaborative decision-making, such as referrals to other agencies, were implemented less frequently. Home-visiting nurses face challenges in enhancing their skills and knowledge in areas such as family engagement, interagency collaboration, and discerning the appropriate scope and timing of interventions.

Strengthening these competencies will support more effective connections between patients with mental illness, their families, and community resources.

None Declared

This Quality Improvement (QI) programme aimed to integrate co-production principles into rehabilitation psychiatry to enhance patient-centred care and facilitate positive step-down discharges. The initiative was developed in response to suboptimal audit results, revealing low patient attendance and limited positive discharges within an in-patient psychiatric unit. Recognising the critical role of rehabilitation psychiatry in supporting recovery and reintegration, the programme sought to transform patient engagement through equitable partnerships between patients and healthcare professionals.

The programme’s primary objectives were to:

1. 1. Implement and evaluate co-production within the Care Programme Approach (CPA).

2. 2. Increase patient attendance at CPA meetings and improve positive step-down discharges.

3. 3. Enhance engagement, communication, and shared decision-making to achieve better patient outcomes, including reduced anxiety.

A phased approach was employed, encompassing diagnostic, problem-solving, and evaluation stages. Root cause analyses were conducted using fishbone cause-and-effect diagrams and the 5-Why Technique. The Model of Improvement guided the programme, with change ideas developed and refined through Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles. Interventions included distributing patient information leaflets, staff training sessions, and introducing a structured CPA agenda template. Quantitative analysis using paired t-tests evaluated changes in attendance, discharge rates, and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) scores. Qualitative data were gathered from a co-produced CPA questionnaire, with emerging themes integrated into the project’s evolution through narrative synthesis.

The implementation of co-production yielded significant improvements in patient engagement and discharge outcomes, resulting in a 50% increase in CPA meeting attendance and a 70% positive step-down discharge rate. Interventions were associated with reduced anxiety levels, evidenced by improvements in HAM-A scores. Qualitative analysis highlighted key themes, including challenges during community transitions, empowerment through shared decision-making, and enhanced communication with healthcare professionals. The structured CPA agenda template further improved patient-centred communication and care experiences.

The integration of co-production within rehabilitation psychiatry fosters transformative partnerships that enhance patient engagement and clinical outcomes. This QI programme demonstrates the efficacy of patient-centred interventions, supported by structured communication tools, in empowering individuals, reducing anxiety, and improving transitions to community care. Co-production provides a robust framework for advancing rehabilitation psychiatry and optimising patient care pathways.

None Declared

Recently, there has been an increase in media reports regarding crimes committed by individuals with mental disorders, leading to a deterioration in public opinion on this issue. Misconceptions about the dangerousness of individuals with mental disorders can negatively impact the prevention, treatment, and social reintegration of these patients.

Public attitudes toward crimes committed by individuals with mental disorders are influenced by media and public opinion, and psychiatric hospital staff are not exempt from these influences. Since the prejudices of these staff members can directly affect psychiatric patients, it is crucial to assess their attitudes.

This study surveyed the attitudes of psychiatric hospital staff regarding the risk of criminal behavior in individuals with mental disorders and compared these attitudes with those of the general population.

The findings revealed that psychiatric hospital staff exhibited less prejudice than the general population across six dimensions related to crimes by individuals with mental disorders: recent increase in crime, cruelty, impulsivity, violence, criminal tendency, and crime rate. Additionally, psychiatric hospital staff displayed less prejudice regarding specific disorders (schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, dementia, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, intellectual disability, and developmental disorders) compared to the general population.

Psychiatric hospital staff demonstrated less prejudice toward the criminal behavior of individuals with mental disorders than the general public. This difference may be attributed to their direct contact with psychiatric patients. The findings suggest potential directions for policy development aimed at reducing public prejudice toward mental disorders and associated criminal behavior.

None Declared

Emotional intelligence (EI) has gained increased attention in medical education and research. EI is often defined as the ability to perceive, express, understand, and manage émotions making it a crucial skill to cultivate during medical school.

This study aimed to explore levels of global EI among Tunisian medical residents based on their demographic characteristics.

This cross-sectional study was carried out with medical residents in training at hospitals across Tunisia. We gathered data anonymously through a Google Forms survey conducted from October 2023 to January 2024. Participants first completed a sociodemographic questionnaire, followed by the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire-Short Form (TEIQue-SF). This 30-item assessment measures overall trait emotional intelligence and evaluates four specific dimensions : Well-Being, Self-Control, Emotionality, and Sociability.

Our study included 127 participants, with men comprising one-fourth (25.2%). The mean age was 27.24±1.34 years with majority aged under 30 (93.7%). The majority of participants were single (81.8%). Most participants (71.7%) were pursuing a medical specialty. First-year medical residents represented 39.4%, while fifth-year residents made up only 1.2%. The total EI score was 4.6±0.68. The mean scores for the four EI traits factors were as follows : well-being 4.81±1.07, self-control 4.34±0.9, emotionality 4.86±0.73, and sociability 4.45±0.85.

Univariate analysis showed that higher levels of global EI, self-control, and sociability were associated with the male gender, with p= 0.027, p=0.00 and p=0.02 respectively. Also, final-year residents demonstrated significantly lower emotionality scores compared to first-year medical residents. Moreover, participants in medical specialties were significantly associated with higher well-being scores (p = 0.017).

It is crucial to further investigate the factors contributing to these variations in EI and to develop tailored strategies that can effectively enhance EI among medical professionals and to support its development in the next generation of physicians.

None Declared

Behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD), characterized by profound personality changes, impulsivity, and disinhibition, is a neurodegenerative disorder that imposes a significant burden on caregivers. This condition is increasingly recognized as a standalone factor contributing to the onset of caregiver stress syndrome (CSS). This case explores the intricate interplay between bvFTD’s neurobehavioral manifestations, its effect on caregivers, and the systemic insufficiencies in offering support.

To highlight the correlation between behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) and caregiver stress syndrome, emphasizing the systemic limitations in social and financial aid for caregivers.

A 68-year-old female presented with significant behavioral alterations, including disinhibition and impulsivity. These manifestations, coupled with frontal and temporal lobe atrophy confirmed via CT scan, pointed to a diagnosis of bvFTD. Her daughter, the primary caregiver, developed significant psychological distress in response to the escalating caregiving demands. The daughter’s request for caregiver status, and subsequent efforts to obtain financial and psychosocial support, were met with significant systemic barriers.

In line with broader data, caregivers of individuals with dementia—especially bvFTD—exhibit disproportionately high levels of psychological distress. The daughter’s subsequent psychological symptoms mirrored national trends of caregiver overload, exacerbated by insufficient systemic response and support. Studies show that caregiver burden tends to increase over time, with upward stress trajectories due to increased caregiving demands and reduced social support. This burden can precipitate mental health problems, such as mood disorders, and increase caregiver mortality risk significantly.

The behavioral disturbances characteristic of bvFTD intensify the psychological burden on caregivers, who must contend with the rapid cognitive and functional decline of their loved ones. The absence of sustained financial and psychosocial support exacerbates this strain, pointing to a critical need for reforms in caregiving policies. Understanding the clinical trajectory of bvFTD and its unique caregiver challenges is paramount for developing targeted interventions to prevent caregiver burnout, improve patient outcomes, and mitigate the psychosocial and health risks for caregivers.

None Declared

Neurostimulation procedures have also been in use for some time to treat neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. In the field of non-invasive brain stimulation, a number of methods have been the subject of investigation, including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), transcranial electrical stimulation (tES), and transcranial pulse stimulation (TPS). Although TMS and tES have been the subject of more extensive investigation, particularly in the context of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and depression, there remains a pressing need for research into TPS. Some studies have demonstrated favorable outcomes when these methods were used. Nevertheless, these methodes have yet to be incorporated into clinical practice, largely due to the inability to conclusively assess and confirm their effectiveness, which is influenced by a number of factors.

TPS as a method of neurostimulation will be presented. Results of a recent study using TPS in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease will also be presented. The aim of the study is to investigate whether cognitive performance is significantly increased and depressive symptom severity is significantly reduced. Furthermore, a research proposal for the use of TPS in patients diagnosed with a depressive disorder will be presented.

The cognitive performance (MoCA) and depressive symptoms (GDS) of patients with early- or late-onset, mild or moderate AD will be assessed at baseline (t1), three months (t2) and six months (t3) following treatment with TPS. In the context of this longitudinal study, which is designed with a single center, the participants will be recruited in an outpatient setting within a specialized psychiatric-psychotherapeutic clinic in Lower Saxony, Germany.

Repeated measures ANOVA; Mean scores MoCA t1 = 13,9 vs. t2 = 14,1 vs. t3 = 14,5 (F(2, 66) = .749, n.s.). Mean scores GDS t1 = 9,5 vs. t2 = 7,6 vs. t3 = 6,8 (F(2, 32 = 4.410, p ˂ .05). n = 34. Preliminary data for the study of TPS in AD, study is being continued. Research proposal for the use of TPS in patients diagnosed with a depressive disorder will also be presented.

As in other studies, remarkable effects were shown with the use of TPS in patients with a mild to moderate AD. The results may indicate that the cognitive performance can be stabilized and the depressive symptom severity can be reduced. It is important to note that the results are based on a relatively small sample size and lack control conditions, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. Further research is required to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment of TPS in AD and to assess the potential suitability of neurostimulation as an add-on therapy, complementing previous drug and non-drug approaches. Further research is also required in the use of TPS in depression given the dearth of scientifically reliable findings on this topic.

None Declared

Patients with severe mental disorders (SMD) often have a high number of admissions and readmissions, which leads to a loss of quality of life and functionality. The approach to patients must be multidisciplinary with the intervention of psychiatry, psychology and occupational therapy. Occupational Therapy is an important tool in acute mental health units; in the literature it has demonstrated its effectiveness in preventing suicide, offering a person-centered approach, contributing to improving their well-being and quality of life. Also noteworthy are the occupational therapy therapeutic groups for health education; sleep-wake balance; cognitive rehabilitation, social skills and relaxation that can be carried out in hospitalization units and demonstrate significant improvement in hospitalized SMD patients.

To describe the importance of the joint approach with occupational therapy in the acute mental health unit by describing 2 clinical cases.

A 54-year-old male was admitted to the mental health hospitalization unit involuntarily due to manic decompensation. During the examination, he was in a euphoric mood and reported a decrease in the need for sleep. He spent all of his pension on compulsive shopping. The family said that in the weeks prior to admission, the patient had made abrupt decisions and had a violent attitude. He has now abandoned treatment. A 56-year-old woman, diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, was admitted due to psychotic decompensation after being isolated at home for 1 month, with neglect of hygiene and inadequate nutrition due to thoughts of poisoning and neglect of pharmacological treatment. Upon examination, she said he was delusional about harm and poisoning, isolation, neglect of self-care.

After the intervention by the therapeutic team, psychopharmacological treatment was reintroduced and daily attendance at occupational therapy groups was indicated, after which the patient showed a notable improvement. We conclude that occupational therapy has allowed a faster recovery, together with the proper intake of medication, constituting an effective therapeutic approach in the treatment. Recovering the deficient Basic Activities of Daily Living related to hygiene and personal image, adherence to treatment and social relationships. Upon discharge, both patients participate in the rehabilitation unit and continue specific programs.

The intervention with psychoeducational programs by Occupational Therapy and the multidisciplinary team in the acute unit improves disease awareness, health knowledge and reduces the rate of readmission in patients with SMD.

None Declared

Spinal occupational injuries constitute an important health problem affecting workers in their most productive years. The outcomes of these injuries may influence the quality of life of those victims.

Assessing the quality of life among victims of spinal occupational injuries and identifiying the associated factors to physical and mental health.

A cross-sectional analysis was conducted during 9 months (from October 2020) among workers victims of occupational injuries consulting for an Impairment Rating Evaluation. Only those with spinal injuries were included. Socio-professional data and the accident’ outcomes were collected. The assessment of perceived mental health (Mental Component Summary: MCS) and physical health (Physical Component Summary: PCM) by each employee was obtained by the 12-item Short Form Health Survey. Social support was evaluated by the Social Support Scale. The pain was evaluated by a Visual Analogue Scale. Unsuccessful return to work comprises all situations other than a satisfactory return to the same position held before the accident.

A total of 73 injured workers were included, 75.3% were male. The mean age was 42.78± 8.46 years. The mean job seniority was 14.44±7.86 years and the average number of working hours per week was 46.93±5.61 hours. Among the participants, 43.8% had an unsuccessful return to work, 28.1% of them had a low social support. The mean scores for MCS and PCS were 41.17± 11.89 and 29.57± 5.31 respectively.

Factors assocoiated with MCS were : the duration of absence (p=0.008), the rate of Permanent Partial Disability (p=0.025), lhe low social support (p=0.000), working in confection sector (p=0.016) and unsuccessful return to work (p=0.023).

Factors associated with PCS were : The pain score (p=0.002), the duration of immobilisation (p=0.007) and being a laborer (p=0.002). No association was found with age, job seniority, the presence of disc diseases and hospitalisation duration.

Victims of spinal occupational injuries are vulnerable to unfavorable outcomes from work accidents, and hence the need for special efforts to reintegrate them into professional life.

None Declared

Occupational stress has been identified as a significant predictor of job satisfaction among university staff.

This paper aims to find out the relationship between occupational stress and job satisfaction among university workers in Sfax, Tunisia.

We conducted a cross-sectional study, during the period from September 2022 to October 2023. We used a self-administered questionnaire distributed to university staff. The questionnaire included socio-professional characteristics and assessment of occupational stress using the Work Stress Screener (WoSS-13). Job satisfaction was rated on a 5-point Likert scale from 1 (extremely dissatisfied) to 5 (extremely satisfied).

The average age of the workers was 49.31±8. years. There is a slight female predominance (78 (53.1%)). Among the respondents, 57 (38.3%) were very to extremely satisfied. The medians of WoSS-13 subscales were 11 for WOSS-A1, 6 for WOSS-A2 and 3 for WOSS-B. Job satisfaction was positively associated with WOSS-A1 and WOSS-A2 (positive stress) but negatively associated with WOSS-B (negative stress). In bivariate analysis, being extremely satisfied was positively associated to WOSS-A1 and WOSS-A2 (p=0.000 for each respectively). However, it was negatively associated to WOSS-B (p=0.000).

Occupational stress has a significant impact on job satisfaction among university workers. Addressing job stress through targeted interventions can improve job satisfaction, productivity, and overall well-being among university staff.

None Declared

Leadership styles can either mitigate or exacerbate psychological distress, influencing job satisfaction, burnout, and overall well-being among nursing staff.

This study aims to explore how different leadership styles impact psychological distress in nursing professionals.

We conducted a cross-sectional survey among nurses working in public hospitals and polyclinics in Sfax region. The questionnaire included socio-professional characteristics, assessment of leadership styles the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) 6S and evaluation of nurses’ mental health using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale 6 (K6).

A total of 200 physicians responded to the survey. The mean age was 33.24 ± 9.34 years with 70.3% being female. Mean scores of transformational, transactional and laissez faire styles were 25.6 ± 6.5, 12.8 ± 4.02 and 13.1 3.2 respectively. Psychological distress was likely to occur in 16.8% of the cases. Negative correlations were found between K6 score and transformational (p=0.00, r= - 0.81), transactional (p= 00, r=0.64) styles. However, laissez faire style was positively correlated with k6 score (p=0.024, r=0.16).

By emphasizing transformational and transactional leadership styles, healthcare leaders can reduce psychological distress among nurses, enhancing their well-being and improving the overall effectiveness of healthcare system.

None Declared

Given the specific characteristics of their work positions, sewing machine operators (SMOs) represent a vulnerable population to musculoskeletal symptoms such as wrist pain in the leather and footwear sector.

This study aims to assess the association between wrist pain and occupational stress among SMOs.

A cross-sectional study was conducted among SMOs working in a shoe and leather factory. Data collection was carried out using Computer-Assisted Personal Interviews through a pre-established questionnaire. This questionnaire consisted of sociodemographic and professional data. We also assessed occupational stress using the validated French version of Job Content Questionnaire of Karasek.

The average age of SMOs (n = 145) was 35.2 ± 9.9 years, with extremes ranging from 18 to 59 years. A female predominance was noted (sex ratio of 0.25). The average seniority in the current position was 14.4 ± 9.9 years. More than half of the population had high psychological demand, low decision latitude and low social in respectively 53.2%, 97.1% and 67.6%. Among SMOs, 76.3% had wrist pain. In bivariate analysis, wrist pain was positively associated to low decision latitude (p=0.033, OR=2.49, 95%IC [1.11-5.59]. Moreover, it was positively associated to professional seniority (p=0.014).

This study highlights a significant prevalence of wrist pain among SMOs in the leather and footwear sector. It can be exacerbated by various factors, including occupational stress. Addressing these factors is essential for enhancing both the health and productivity of this vulnerable workforce.

None Declared

Patients with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are at a higher risk of suicidal behavior. Impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and co-existing mental health conditions contribute to this risk. Early identification and comprehensive support are vital in mitigating these issues.

The aims of our study are to characterize which factors promote suicide attempt in patient with ADHD.

Our study is conducted on patients (>18 years) referred to the adult ADHD outpatient service of the Psychiatric Clinic of Ancona (Università Politecnica delle Marche, Italy). The Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in adults (DIVA 5.0) was used for diagnosing ADHD. The following rating scale were administered: Temperament Evaluation in Memphis, Pisa and San Diego (TEMPS-M), Coping Orientation to the Problems Experiences-new Italian version (COPE-NVI), Temperament and Character Inventory-Revised (TCI-R).

76% (n=170) of all screened patients were diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood. 7.3% (n=12) of patients with ADHD attempted suicide. A significant higher frequency of suicide attempts was observed in those with borderline personality disorder as a comorbidity (p=0.004), in those with other psychiatric comorbidities (p=0.031), in those who are receiving treatment from the pathological addiction outpatient service (p=0.011), and in those who use stimulants (p=0.018) or opioids (p=0.019). A multivariate linear regression was observed between number of suicidal attempt (R2=0.357; F(5,52)=5.779; p<0.001) and TCI-R transpersonal identification subscale (B=0.022; p=0.021), TCI-R harm avoidance subscale (B=-0.008; p=0.001), TCI-R impulsiveness subscale (B=0.023; p=0.012), TCI-R disorderliness subscale (B=-0.024; p=0.045) and COPE-NVI turn to religion subscale (B=-0.033; p=0.005). A logistic regression analysis was performed to ascertain the effects of all types of TCI-R subscale, on the likelihood of enacting suicide attempts. The logistic regression model was statistically significant, ▫▫2(1)=4.210, p=0.04. The model explained 14% (Nagelkerke R2) of the variance in patients with ADHD who committed suicide and correctly classified 90.3% of cases. Enacting a suicide attempt was significantly predicted TCI-R pure-hearted conscience subscale (exp(B)=0.843, p=0.062).

Comorbidities, addiction treatment, substance use, and personality traits significantly influence the likelihood of suicidal behavior. In addition, it is highlighted that impulsivity, lack of responsibility and caution, those who feel a strong connection with nature and the universe, being rigid, not having transcendental-oriented coping strategies, and being opportunistic are factors promoting suicide in patients with ADHD.

None Declared