Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) describe an array of stressful exposures that occur during childhood/ adolescence, including types of abuse and neglect. As ACEs occur during a critical period of human development, they have been associated with a range of chronic diseases in adulthood.

We aimed to systematically analyze the prevalence of ACEs in studies in two different disease severity populations, including primary headache and cancer. The objectives of this study are to examine,

The prevalence of ACEs hypothesized to impact chronic disease

The pooled association of the presence of “disease”, which consists for this study only primary headache and/or cancer, with ACEs

The inclusion criteria for the studies in the systematic reviews/meta-analyses included observational studies with a comparator group, ACE(s) occurrence at ≤18 years of age, and disease diagnosis at ≥21 years of age. Searches were conducted up to Mar 16, 2023. Two review authors independently screened articles, extracted data, assessed risk of bias using QUIPS, and conducted GRADE assessment as part of the systematic reviews. In this study, we calculated the prevalence and the odds of experiencing ACEs among those with disease compared to those without disease.

Of the total 39,658 articles screened, 44 studies were eligible for synthesis of 437,852 participants from 22 countries across five continents. Among included studies, the most commonly examined ACEs were physical abuse (82% of studies), sexual abuse (77%), household substance or alcohol abuse (52%), witnessing or threat of violence (50%), having a household member with a mental illness (45%), and emotional abuse (43%).

Of the 437,852 participants in the synthesis, an estimated total of 196,587 participants (45%) reported experiencing at least one ACE. Among participants with primary headache and/or cancer, 51% (29,838/58,580) reported experiencing at least one ACE, compared to 44% (166,749/379,272) of participants without primary headache and/or cancer (crude odds ratio = 1.32, 95% confidence interval: 1.30, 1.35).

The prevalence of ACEs is high when hypothesized to be associated with diseases, independent of the risk for mortality (i.e., primary headache low mortality, cancer high mortality). Abuse ACEs are more commonly considered in studies than neglect ACEs, and therefore, more consistent and comprehensive reporting of ACEs is needed. There is untapped opportunity for the expertise of psychiatrists to collaborate with clinicians and researchers of adult chronic disease studies.

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Stigma not only influences the willingness to disclose mental health conditions and self-esteem but may also diminish the overall quality of life in individuals with mental illnesses. However, limited research has examined the potential mechanisms underlying this complex relationship.

This study aims to explore the mediating roles of disclosure and self-esteem in the association between mental illness stigma and quality of life.

We utilized the meta-analytic structural equation modeling (MASEM) approach and conducted a comprehensive literature search across various electronic databases to identify relevant publications up to July 2023. MASEM was employed to derive bivariate correlation matrices for stigma, disclosure, self-esteem, and quality of life. Additionally, two simple mediation models and one serial mediation model were tested to examine the relationships between these variables.

The analysis included 181 articles reporting 195 independent samples (N = 33,162) and 278 effect sizes. The single mediator model indicated that self-esteem (β = −0.155, 95% CI [−0.276, −0.070], p < .001), rather than disclosure (β = −0.019, 95% CI [−0.094, 0.031], p > .05), served as a mediator. In the multiple mediator model, disclosure and self-esteem were found to have serial mediating roles between stigma and quality of life (β = −0.016, 95% CI [−0.0546, −0.0003], p < .05).

This study makes a significant contribution to understanding how stigma attitudes impact the quality of life in individuals with mental health problems, providing a strong empirical foundation for the development of mental health interventions. Future research directions and practical implications are also explored.

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The Brief Symptom Inventory-9 (BSI-9) is a recently developed short (9-item) self-report scale measuring distress. It has three Subscales measuring Anxiety, Depression, and Somatisation. The BSI-9 is based on longer scales (BSI-18, BSI-53, and SCL-90) and was developed as a brief screening tool.

The present study examined the generalisability of the original foundational research undertaken in Germany. The present study examined the psychometric properties of the BSI-9 among a sample of Irish college students.

A sample of 763 Irish college students completed the BSI-9, and a further 18 students completed the BSI-9 on two occasions, separated by four weeks, as part of a more extensive study. Factor analyses and reliability analyses were carried out.

The BSI-9 scale and the three Subscales measuring Somatisation, Anxiety, and Depression were each found to have appropriate factor loadings, satisfactory levels of internal consistency, and satisfactory levels of temporal stability across four weeks. These findings are consistent with those reported in the original foundational research in Germany.

Although the sample size was small and restricted to students only, the present study does provide evidence for the reliability of the BSI-9 among a sample of Irish college students. Future work is now required to extend this work to examine the convergent validity of the BSI-9 among other English-speaking samples.

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The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on mental health globally, exacerbating existing mental health disorders (MHD) and substance use disorders (SUD). Various measures have been implemented to mitigate these adverse mental health consequences. Nevertheless, the significant rise in mental health challenges has underscored the role of psychotropic drug prescriptions as an important metric for assessing mental health trends in certain populations. During the pandemic, data from high-income countries, indicate an increase in the prescription of psychotropic drugs. This might reflect heightened mental health needs in the general population, but also may underscores the exacerbated vulnerability of individuals with pre-existing concurrent MHD/SUD. Prescribing psychotropic drugs can be complex due to the potential for misuse and the need for careful monitoring to balance therapeutic effects with the risks.

This study aimed to evaluate 1) the number of prescriptions of psychotropic drugs in persons with concurrent MHD and SUD in the years before and during the two COVID-19 pandemic years (2020 and 2021) and 2) to study the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the consumption of psychotropic drugs among this population.

We conducted a retrospective cohort study based on a data file constructed by merging individual-level information from the Norwegian Patient Register and the Norwegian Prescribed Drug Registry, analysing data from 2019-2021. The International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-10 main diagnosis, chapter V have been used to identify persons with MHD/SUD. We recognised 35.000 individuals who received a diagnosis of co-occurring MHD/SUD between the years 2019-2021. A graphical approach and descriptives were applied to study the population. Interrupted time series analysis was used to compare changes in trends in the prescriptions dispensed by eight psychotropic drug classes, according to the consecutive COVID-19 waves during the first two years of the pandemic.

Preliminary analysis show, an increased prescription rate in all eight psychotropic drugs classes in persons with MHD/SUD during the first two years of the pandemic, compared to 2019. The largest increases were shown to appear parallel with the COVID-19 waves. Antipsychotics and anxiolytics were the most prevalent prescribed drugs, followed by opiates, hypnotics & sedatives and antidepressants. Being female and older age was associated with higher odds of receiving a prescription, regardless psychotropic drug class.

The prescription of psychotropic drugs has gradually increased from 2019-2021. More research is needed to differentiate increases due to unmet needs versus overprescribing and further, to study the long-term effects of the pandemic regarding the utilization of psychotropic drugs in this vulnerable patient group.

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“Sex work” refers to the provision of sexual services in exchange for monetary or material compensation. The exact number of sex workers in Germany, where prostitution is legal, remains uncertain, but estimates suggest it could be as high as 700,000. The majority of the group is female and has a migration background. Sex work covers different areas. These include work in brothels and strip clubs, street prostitution, hostess services and work in the porn industry. Previous research into sex work has mainly focused on sexually transmitted diseases. While results from Switzerland indicate elevated prevalences of depression, anxiety disorders, and substance use among sex workers, to date, there has been no research specifically addressing mental illnesses among sex workers in Germany.

The research project aims to fill this gap by determining the 1-year prevalence as well as risk and resilience factors for mental illness among sex workers in Berlin. The research findings aim to enhance psychosocial care services for sex workers and foster meaningful contributions to the broader social discourse.

The socio-demographic composition of the sex worker population is constantly shifting, making it difficult to obtain a truly representative random sample. Quota sampling offers the closest alternative, with interviewees being approached at various workplaces. Additionally, we ensure a diverse age range is included in the study. A total of 500 participants will be surveyed using structured interviews. The interview consists of a sex work questionnaire, standardized research instruments, and a mental health screening. The sex work questionnaire gathers data on work type and intensity, socio-demographic characteristics, and individual access to counseling and support services. Standardized instruments include assessments for personality (TIPI), coping behaviors (Brief COPE), health-related quality of life (SF-12), stigmatization experiences (PASS 24), and childhood trauma (CTQ). The mental health screening will be conducted using the Mini-DIPS.

The submitted poster will offer a detailed overview of the study design and methodologies. In addition, preliminary results will be shared, shedding light on the mental health status and access to healthcare services among sex workers.

This pioneering study seeks to address a significant gap in current research. The final findings will form the foundation for more in-depth analysis and guide future recommendations to improve support services for this population.

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The rise in cannabis consumption in Morocco, paralleling global patterns, has heightened concerns over its potential repercussions on mental and physical health, as well as its broader societal implications.

This study aims to delineate the demographic and clinical characteristics of individuals affected by cannabis toxicity and elucidate the details of their exposure scenarios in Morocco.

We conducted a retrospective analysis of cannabis poisoning incidents from 2008 to 2017, encompassing both occasional and habitual users. Data were sourced from the Moroccan Poison Control Center (MPCC), providing a comprehensive national perspective.

During the study period, 553 cases of cannabis poisoning were reported, with a gender distribution of 19.3% female and 80.7% male. Notably, 245 individuals were identified as regular users. The mean age of those affected was 18.3 years. Findings indicate that children are particularly vulnerable to accidental poisoning from psychoactive substances, predominantly due to the ingestion of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the principal psychoactive compound. The clinical manifestations vary depending on the dosage and pattern of use. Out of 438 cases with documented outcomes, six resulted in fatalities, while the remainder showed improvement following appropriate medical interventions, including gastrointestinal decontamination.

The escalating use of cannabis necessitates immediate and strategic public health interventions, particularly targeting the youth, to mitigate its adverse health effects and societal impact. It is crucial to develop targeted strategies to enhance preventive efforts and curb cannabis misuse among vulnerable populations.

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The impact of illicit drug-related poisonings on public health is a pressing global concern, necessitating focused scrutiny to mitigate adverse effects on communities. In Morocco, the prevalence of illicit substance abuse and its resulting emergencies pose a complex challenge to public health systems. Particularly concerning are the poisonings induced by these substances, which not only require immediate responses but also demand a sustained, strategic approach to ensure long-term community health and safety.

This study aims to delineate trends in poisonings caused by illicit drugs, as reported to the Moroccan Poison Control Center over a decade, focusing on the annual number of cases and their proportion to overall poisoning cases.

Data spanning from 2013 to 2022 from the Moroccan Poison Control Center were analyzed to assess the annual number of poisoning cases and proportions attributed to incidents involving illicit drug use. The analysis focused on identifying long-term trends, highlighting the evolving role of illicit drugs in poisoning statistics.

Between 2013 and 2022, a total of 109,976 poisoning cases were recorded, of which 2,284 (2.08%) were related to the use of illicit drugs. Initially, drug-related poisonings increased, peaking in 2017 at 339 cases (2% of 16,906 total cases). Notable observations included 198 drug-related cases in 2013 (1.65% of 11,968 cases) and 334 in 2016 (2.11% of 15,838 cases). However, a marked decline was observed post-2017, culminating in 2022 with 84 drug-related cases (1.99% of 4,225 total cases). The prevalence of drug-related poisonings fluctuated annually, ranging from 1.56% to 3.65%, with a significant decrease in both total and drug-related poisonings after 2017.

Although there was an initial increase in illicit drug-related poisonings in Morocco, a notable decline was observed. Despite this downturn, illicit drug-related poisonings continue to pose a critical public health issue. Ongoing monitoring and proactive prevention strategies are crucial to sustain this downward trend and effectively manage the challenges of illicit substance abuse.

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Mental health among young people, particularly students, has become an increasing concern in contemporary society, shaped by its complexity, fast-paced nature, and hyper-connectivity. High levels of stress have been observed in numerous studies of this population. Perceived stress goes beyond merely observing stressful events, encompassing the individual’s subjective evaluation of these situations. This perception involves awareness of one’s emotions and thoughts, as well as awareness of the surrounding environment.

The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between perceived stress and mindfulness levels among Tunisian students.

This was a cross-sectional study, conducted over a five-month period from August to December 2023. A questionnaire was distributed via email to 800 students, collecting sociodemographic data as well as two scales. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) was used to evaluate how participants perceive daily life situations as stressful: a higher PSS-10 score indicates greater perceived stress, categorized into three levels: low, moderate, and severe. The Five Factor Mindfulness Questionnaire-15 (FFMQ-15) assessed mindfulness dimensions: observing, describing, acting with awareness, non-judging, and non-reactivity. A higher FFMQ-15 score indicates greater mindfulness.

A total of 102 students agreed to participate in the study. Their ages ranged from 19 to 30, with more than half being under 20 years old. 75.5% of participants were female.

The average PSS-10 score was 23, with significantly higher scores observed among women (p < 10-3). Stress levels were mostly moderate (55.88%) or high (32.35%).

The mindfulness assessment revealed that the majority of participants had a moderate level of mindfulness (46 ± 8). Mindfulness scores were higher among students aged between 20 and 30 compared to those under 20 years old (p < 10-3).

A negative correlation was observed between perceived stress and mindfulness (p = 0.01; r = -0.508), particularly in three mindfulness dimensions: describing, non-judging, and acting with awareness.

Mindfulness appears to play a significant role in reducing perceived stress levels. Our findings suggest that mindfulness training should be integrated into programs aimed at improving stress management among students.

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Unlike data on public stigmatization with regard to the diagnosis of borderline personality disorder (BPD), literature concerning internalized stigma (IS) and stigma resistance (SR) is scarce.

The objective of the present study was collecting data about SR in patients diagnosed with BPD. Furthermore, quality of life and depressive symptoms were assessed and checked for possible associations with SR.

Patients meeting the inclusion criteria with 18-65 years of age and diagnosed with BPD were included into the study after giving written informed consent. The stigma resistance scale (SRS) had been translated to German. The SRS comprises 5 subscales and measures SR on a 5-point-Likert scale (1-5). Higher values indicate higher levels of SR. Furthermore, the German versions of the depression scale CES-D (ADS) and the quality of life – BREF (QOL-BREF) were used in this study. ADS measures depressive symptoms on a scale ranging from 0-60, with higher scores indicating more severe symptoms. QOL-BREF measures values between 0-100 on 4 domains, with 100 indicating a maximum of health in each domain. The recruitment took place in specialized inpatient and outpatient units between 2019 and 2022, with some interruptions caused by COVID protective measures.

101 participants (f = 90.1%) with a mean age of 29.2 years (18-59) were included into the study. The overall mean score of the SRS was 3.6. The mean scores of the subscales showed values between 2.8 (personal cognition) and 3.9 (public SR). The 4 domains of the QOL-BREF showed the following mean values: Physical health 47.4, psychological health 30.7, social relationships 51.2, environment 62.1. The study sample had a mean ADS score of 34.8. Interestingly stigma resistance, quality of life and depressive symptoms showed no correlation. Compared to the mixed sample in the original study, the sample of the current study showed comparable values in stigma resistance.

The use of the German SRS is feasible in a sample of patients with a diagnosis of BPD and yielded comparable results with the original mixed diagnoses study sample. As the measure exists already in several languages, comparisons between cultural, diagnostic and otherwise defined subgroups will be possible in the future. Further conceptual as well as qualitative and quantitative research work will be informed by these findings.

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For most people, gender identity is consistent with biological sex and such people are called cisgender. People in whom such a relationship does not occur or occurs to a lesser extent are referred to as gender non-conforming - and these include transgender, non-binary, agender and gender-fluid people. These groups are usually affected by minority stress, which, combined with the circumstances of the pandemic and war, may have led to mental disorders and sleep disorders in this population.

The aim of the study was to analyze the symptoms of anxiety, depression and insomnia in a group of Polish youth during the COVID-19 pandemic and the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, taking into consideration gender differences.

The study involved 1621 secondary school students aged 14 to 19, the average age was 16.73±1.35, including 857 girls, 690 boys and 74 people who defined their gender as non-binary. A set of questionnaires for the Diagnosis of Depression in Children (CDI 2), the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), the X-1 subscale, The Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS) and an original questionnaire of sociodemographic data were used in research.

Analyzing the results obtained in the study group, the respondents scored an average of 17.99 ±9.55pts in the assessment of depressive symptoms. After division into genders, the overall score was 19.69±9.40pts for girls, 15.03±8.68 for boys and 25.86±9.91 for non-binary people. The difference was statistically significant in all groups. In the anxiety symptoms assessment, the respondents scored an average of 46.92± 11.67pts. After division into genders, 49.21± 11.12pts for girls, 43.39 ± 11.47 for boys and 53.39 ± 10.41 for non-binary people. The difference was statistically significant in all groups. Analyzing the results obtained in AIS, the average score was 8.31±4.58pts, which allows to evaluate sleep onset as a norm. After dividing into groups, the results were 8.95±4.55pts for girls, 7.19±4.21 points for boys and 11.35±5.43 for non-binary people, the difference was statistically significant. Statistically significant positive correlations were found between the results obtained on the scale assessing depressive symptoms and anxiety symptoms and the results obtained on the AIS scale.

Among the studied group of teenagers, the highest intensity of depressive symptoms is demonstrated by non-binary people, followed by females, and finally by males. Similar results were obtained in the assessment of anxiety symptoms. The non-binary group achieved results indicating sleep disorders, while the cisgender group’s results of sleep onset were borderline normal. Whatsmore, the greater the severity of depressive and anxiety disorders, the greater the sleep disorders in all study groups, regardless of gender.

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Chronic and transient loneliness are two clinically distinct conditions that have different impacts on mental health. However, there is limited information regarding the prevalence of chronic and transient loneliness, and their associated risk factors.

This study aims to (1) assess the prevalence of chronic and transient loneliness among Spanish adults, (2) identify and compare the risk factors associated with both forms of loneliness, (3) examine how perceptions of loneliness contribute to its persistence, and (4) evaluate the effects of chronic versus transient loneliness on depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders.

A total of 1,503 Spanish adults were interviewed by phone from May to June 2024. Loneliness was measured with a direct question, and the three-item loneliness scale from the University of California, Los Angeles, was used for the sensitivity analyses. Chronic loneliness was defined as reported loneliness both two years ago and currently, while transient loneliness was defined as reported loneliness only two years ago. The CAGE Adapted to Include Drugs (CAGE-AID) questionnaire was used to assess substance use disorder within the previous month, anxiety symptoms were measured using the GAD-2, and depressive symptoms were assessed using the PHQ-2. Logistic regression models were constructed to examine sociodemographic and behavioral risk factors for chronic and transient loneliness, as well as the impact of loneliness perceptions on the likelihood of chronicity and the association of both types of loneliness with mental disorders.

11.4% of the sample reported chronic loneliness, while 9.5% reported transient loneliness. Risk factors associated with chronic loneliness included being a younger adult, female, living alone or with roommates, having low education level, and poor health status. In contrast, the risk factors for transient loneliness included being single or separated and frequent use of social media. Poor social support was a risk factor for both types of loneliness, though it had a significantly stronger impact on chronic loneliness (OR = 10.1, 95% CI: 5.5–18.4) compared to transient loneliness (OR = 2.2, 95% CI: 1.2–3.8). Feelings of emptiness (OR = 2.7, 95% CI: 1.4–5.4) and perceiving loneliness as insurmountable (OR = 2.6, 95% CI: 1.4–4.6) were risk factors for chronicity among individuals feeling loneliness. Sensitivity analyses showed similar results to the main findings. Only chronic loneliness was longitudinally associated with higher odds of depression (OR = 5.0, 95% CI: 3.4–7.4), anxiety (OR = 3.1, 95% CI: 1.3–4.1), and substance use disorder (OR = 3.6, 95% CI: 1.9–6.6).

Chronic loneliness can be identified through its risk factors and the perceptions of those experiencing it, highlighting the importance of addressing these issues to improve mental health outcomes.

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Absenteeism is a significant issue affecting various professional sectors, and its increase within healthcare institutions is a major concern. This phenomenon is complex and multidimensional, involving numerous factors.

To determine the rate of absenteeism among healthcare personnel, describe the socioprofessional characteristics of employees on long-term sick leave due to psychiatric disorders, and identify the main factors associated with this absenteeism.

This is a retrospective descriptive study conducted on all healthcare personnel in a Tunisian governorate who took long-term sick leave for psychiatric reasons between 2015 and 2020. Data were collected from medical and administrative records through the Regional Long-Term Sick Leave Commission and via a questionnaire conducted by phone

Among the 5067 employees in healthcare facilities in the governorate, 388 (7.65%) had taken at least one period of sick leave due to psychiatric issues. The average age of absent personnel was 45 ± 9 years, with a range of 30 to 65 years. A significant majority of the absentees were female, accounting for 85.8%. Additionally, 78.8% of the absent employees were married. University hospitals (UHs) accounted for 75.6% of absenteeism cases, with nurses being the most affected professional group (40.5%). The duration of sick leave ranged from 1 to 60 months, with an average of 8.5 months. Depression was the most frequent psychiatric cause, accounting for 82.34% of cases. The analysis showed that depression was significantly associated with several factors, notably age (p=0.021), job position (p=0.049), and employment in UHs (p=0.027).

The results indicate high levels of absenteeism, emphasizing the urgent need for a comprehensive intervention plan. This plan should prioritize preventive measures, targeting both individuals and workplace organization.

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Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) is a major public health concern and is closely associated with dissociative symptoms. According to the betrayal trauma theory, dissociation can be interpreted as a response towards betrayal trauma (i.e., trauma perpetrated by a close person, such as a family member). No previous study has validated this theory with a focus on CSA in the Chinese context.

We hypothesized that people with betrayal CSA, but not non-betrayal CSA, would report significantly more dissociative symptoms than people without CSA. We also hypothesized that betrayal CSA, but not non-betrayal CSA, would be significantly associated with the severity of dissociative symptoms. We tested the hypotheses in two independent Chinese-speaking samples.

Sample 1 (N = 91) consisted of participants seeking treatment in an evaluation study; while Sample 2 (N = 376) included community health service users in a survey study. In both Chinese-speaking samples, participants completed the two CSA items on the Brief Betrayal Trauma Survey and the 16-item Dissociative Features Section of the Self-report Dissociative Disorders Interview Schedule (SR-DDIS). ANOVA and regression analyses were used to test our hypotheses.

Across both samples, participants with betrayal CSA reported significantly more dissociative symptoms than those without any CSA (Sample 1: M = 5.60, SD = 3.14 vs M = 3.67, SD = 3.06; F = 3.301, p = .041, Sample 2: M = 2.06, SD = 2.49 vs M = 0.93, SD = 1.32; F = 8.428, p < .001). As hypothesized, no significant differences in dissociative symptoms were observed between participants with and without non-betrayal CSA (Sample 1: M = 4.00, SD = 3.71 vs M = 3.67, SD = 3.06; Sample 2: M = 1.14, SD = 1.83 vs M = .93, SD = 1.32). Across both samples, betrayal CSA, but not non-betrayal CSA, was significantly associated with dissociative symptoms (Sample 1: β = .250, p = .024, Sample 2: β = .189, p < .001), after controlling for age and gender.

This study provides cross-cultural evidence for the betrayal trauma theory. We suggest that proactive family-centered child protection is needed to prevent CSA, and screening for dissociative symptoms is also necessary in CSA survivors.

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Loneliness and social isolation are frequently associated with mental health problems. In Spain, the term ‘unwanted loneliness’ has gained particular importance in recent years, referring to an involuntary insufficiency in social relationships. According to recent studies, this affects an estimated 13.4% of the Spanish population (Jiménez Rodríguez. Rev Esp Salud Publica 2024; 98).

To conduct a review of the studies that address loneliness and social isolation

We searched in PubMed using the following terms: ‘((unwanted loneliness[Title/Abstract]) OR (loneliness[Title/Abstract]) OR (social isolation[Title/Abstract])) AND (mental health[Title/Abstract])’, limiting the search to the last 30 years.

We found 5,472 articles on the subject, of which 4,373 were published in recent years, confirming the growing interest in this issue. The countries with the most publications on this topic were England (1,733 results), the United States (1,561 results), and Switzerland (894 results). Although we did not focus on this aspect, it is worth noting that the most frequently used keyword was ‘COVID-19,’ appearing a total of 1,229 times, which may partially explain the increase in publications over the last year.

Upon reviewing the content of the articles, we observed that many focus on demographic factors. For example, living with a romantic or sexual partner has been consistently identified as a protective factor against loneliness (Currin et al. Curr Psychol 2022; Online publication), and we also found significant associations between loneliness and being single, separated, or divorced (Ibáñez-Del Valle et al. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:16622).

The association of this issue with social inequalities has also been highlighted (Martín Roncero et al. Gac Sanit 2021; 35:432-437). We observed a potential gender bias, with findings indicating a higher risk in women for the perception of loneliness and the evaluation of social relationships (Pavlidis et al. Aging Ment Health 2023; 27:1313-1321). Other studies have found that higher population density reduces social isolation in areas with a high proportion of people of the same race or ethnicity but increases it in areas with fewer people of the same ethnicity (You et al. Inquiry 2024; 61:469580241273127). Sexual orientation-related factors also appear to be significant: internalized homonegativity has been associated with loneliness, where it is noted that accepting and integrating a gay or lesbian identity seems particularly important for younger, non-gay-identified individuals (Berg et al. J Gay Lesbian Ment Health 2015; 19:285-302).

Unwanted loneliness is a complex and highly significant phenomenon, with a demonstrated association with poorer overall and mental health (Martín Roncero et al. Gac Sanit 2021; 35:432-437). This issue should be studied not only from the lens of mental health but also from a sociological perspective.

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The literature review on anxiety/depression rates and quality of life (QoL) in youth in Kosovo are scarce. Studies on anxiety and depressive symptoms in Kosovo mostly, have revealed high prevalence rates pre and during COVID-19.

This study aimed to explore the relationship between anxiety, depression, and quality of life in Kosovo youth. The significance of this study lies in the fact that these variables are being examined together for the first time in Kosovo after COVID-19.

Its cross-sectional study. The sample consisted of 563 students aged 18 to 25 (Mage=20.88; SD=1.52). Participants recruited online in the period of May 2023, and completed the Albanian version of GAD-7, PHQ-9 and GQOL (Global Quality of Life Scale). Data processing was done with SPSS 27.0 and Microsoft Excel 2019.

The prevalence of anxiety (measured with GAD-7, ≥10) was 42.6 % while the prevalence of depression (measured with PHQ-9, ≥10) was 45.5%. Significant negative correlations were observed between anxiety and QoL (r = -.335, p < 0.00) and between depression and QoL (r = -.326, p < 0.00). A partial correlation indicated that anxiety and depression had very much influence in controlling for the relationship with QoL reciprocally; for anxiety (r = -.133, p < 0.02) and for depression (r = -.109, p < 0.13). Females and low SES emerged (but not employment status) as factors associated with higher levels of anxiety/depression and low Quality of Life.

Our anxiety/depression prevalence rates are mostly above those found in Kosovar youth both before and during COVID-19, and also in comparison to other European countries. Anxiety and depression, both separately and especially when co-occurring, significantly affect the quality of life of young people. Despite the fact that prevalence rates can vary depending on the specific methodology, sample size, and population demographics of each study, these findings should be taken seriously and addressed by mental health authorities in Kosovo through preventive and treatment programs. Additionally, further studies with sound scientific quality are necessary.

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The birth of a child is a joyous event that can be accompanied by major challenges for women’s mental health. It is marked by physical, hormonal, psychological, family and social upheavals. It can also be associated with an increased risk of incidence or decompensation of psychiatric disorders.

The aim of this study is to describe the trends and characteristics of post-partum mental disorders in the Orientale region of Morocco.

36 files of patients hospitalised or having consulted for a post-partum psychological disorder at the Mental Health and Psychiatric Diseases Hospital of the Mohammed-VI University Hospital Centre in Oujda were examined using a data collection form.

The main disorders identified were post-partum depression and puerperal psychosis, with rates of 62% and 38%, respectively. 32% of them have attempted suicide, 14% have suicidal thoughts, 32% have committed infanticide, and 21% have rejected their baby. With regard to pregnancy and childbirth, a third of the women had a caesarean section, with primiparous women predominating. 57% of the women described their childbirth experience as long and painful. Similarly, the use of addictive substances was mentioned in 44% of cases.

It is true to say that measures need to be put in place to improve conditions for women and to raise awareness among those around them of the need for early detection of these disorders. These proposals underline the importance of taking concrete steps to support the women concerned and promote their mental well-being.

None Declared

Attachment styles, developed through early life interactions, influence how individuals perceive relationships and manage stress. Medical students often exhibit insecure attachment styles, which are linked to increased psychological distress.

The primary aim of this study is to explore the extent to which resilience influences the connection between attachment styles and general psychological well-being among medical students.

This cross-sectional study was conducted at New Giza University in Cairo, Egypt, and involved 437 medical students. Participants completed self-report surveys measuring attachment styles, resilience, and psychological distress. The survey instruments included the Relationship Questionnaire (RQ) for attachment styles, the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) for psychological distress (where a lower GHQ-12 score indicates less psychological distress), and the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-10) for resilience. Participants were grouped into four attachment styles: secure (SA), fearful avoidant (FA), anxious preoccupied (AP), and dismissive avoidant (DA).

The sample’s mean age was 20.32 years (SD = 2.09). Females comprised 69.6% of the cohort, and single students made up 80.1% of the whole cohort. The distribution of attachment styles across females and males differed significantly (p < 0.0001, χ² = 25.7), with DA being more prevalent in males compared to females (28.6% and 13.2%, respectively). GHQ-12 median scores were similar between genders (p = 0.23), while CD-RISC-10 scores differed (p = 0.002), with males having a higher median (28).

Median scores of GHQ-12 and CD-RISC-10 differed significantly across groups of attachment styles (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0002, respectively). AP and FA had the highest GHQ-12 medians (15), while AP had the lowest CD-RISC-10 median (25).

A negative correlation between CD-RISC-10 and GHQ-12 scores was significant in the whole cohort (p < 0.0001, r = -0.3227), with FA showing the strongest correlation (p < 0.0001, r = -0.3292, CI: -0.4714 to -0.1704) and other groups showing similar reuslts (figures 1, 2 and 3).

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The findings underscore the critical role of resilience in buffering against the psychological impacts of insecure attachment among medical students. Approaches targeting resilience enhancement could serve as a valuable intervention target to mitigate psychological distress and improve well-being in this high-risk attachment styles. Future research is recommended to develop and test resilience-focused interventions tailored to medical students with insecure attachment styles, which may help reduce burnout and promote mental health in medical training environments.

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In the rapidly evolving landscape of contemporary education, high school teachers are increasingly confronting significant professional stress that critically undermines their mental health and overall well-being. This pervasive issue not only affects teachers but also has broader implications for the effectiveness and sustainability of educational systems.

This study aims to elucidate the complex dynamics of occupational stress, psychosocial workplace factors, and burnout among high school teachers in Tetouan, Morocco.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 258 high school teachers. The study utilized the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) to assess burnout levels, the Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ) to evaluate psychosocial factors, and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) to measure perceived stress levels.

The MBI indicated that 43% of teachers experienced high emotional exhaustion, 46% reported low depersonalization, and 47% indicated low levels of personal accomplishment. On the JCQ, 55% of teachers faced high psychological demands, 57% had limited decision latitude, and 44% received insufficient social support at their workplace. There was a significant correlation between MBI emotional exhaustion and JCQ psychological demand scores (r = 0.381, p < 0.01), indicating a complex interplay between burnout dimensions and psychosocial factors in the workplace. Furthermore, the PSS-10 results exhibited a median stress score of 27, indicating a significant variability in stress perceptions among the participants.

This study underscores the critical need to address burnout, psychosocial workplace factors, and perceived stress among high school teachers. The prevalent emotional exhaustion, substantial psychological demands, and varied perceived stress levels revealed by this study necessitate integrated strategies that address these complex interactions to foster a more supportive and healthy professional environment. Further research should focus on operationalizing these insights into concrete, actionable policies that enhance educational professionals’ well-being and productivity.

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The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the declaration of a global emergency. The pervasive fear of contagion has transformed daily life practices, and lockdown measures globally implemented to mitigate virus transmission have led to a spectrum of adverse psychological effects, including anxiety, sadness, frustration, disorientation, and potential for post-traumatic stress disorder, significantly affecting mental health.

This study aims to evaluate the psychological effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the well-being of trainee teachers.

A descriptive analysis was conducted on a cohort of 370 Moroccan trainee teachers, with a mean age of 28.30 ± 5.99 years. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire designed to assess the presence and extent of psychological distress, along with sociodemographic and professional characteristics, during the lockdown.

The findings revealed that 65.1% of the confined trainees experienced obsessive tendencies, and 40% reported that their daily activities were restricted, affecting their normal life pursuits. Furthermore, 68.3% expressed moderate to high stress levels due to various factors, such as financial and professional concerns, potential loss of family members, or personal hospitalization. Half of the trainees expressed concern for their future prospects and feelings of ennui during these unprecedented times.

The findings reveal the enduring psychological impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on trainee teachers, with significant stress and psychological disorders noted. This emphasizes the critical need for targeted mental health support and proactive resilience-building within educational systems, not only aiding recovery but also preparing educators for future pandemics.

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Teacher burnout is a pervasive challenge across the global educational sector, profoundly impacting educator well-being and the overall quality of education. A robust body of research highlights the link between organizational factors and burnout, underscoring the urgent need for an in-depth understanding of these dynamics across different cultural contexts.

This systematic review aims to delineate how workload and social support dynamically influence teacher burnout. Through a detailed examination of the complex interrelationships among these factors, we endeavor to elucidate the underlying mechanisms by which they influence teachers’ emotional and psychological health, thereby providing critical insights into potential evidence-based interventions.

We synthesized findings from a total of 40 relevant studies (35 cross-sectional and five longitudinal studies), adhering to the 2020 PRISMA guidelines. We utilized the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for quality assessment due to its rigorous criteria, examining the impact of workload and social support on teachers’ stress levels across diverse educational settings.

High workload and insufficient social support were identified in 75% of the studies as significant predictors of emotional exhaustion among teachers globally. Excessive workloads were correlated with increased burnout levels, which negatively affected their mental health and job satisfaction. Conversely, strong social support networks, including collegial relationships and administrative support, were found to effectively mitigate burnout, bolstering teachers’ resilience and overall well-being. Furthermore, the review underlined that the quality of the evidence was moderate, highlighting the need for further, more robust research.

This review confirms the complex interactions within organizational dynamics that contribute to teacher burnout. It underscores the critical need for tailored interventions, such as professional development in stress management and policies that foster supportive work environments. By strategically addressing workload challenges and enhancing social support, stakeholders can significantly improve teacher well-being and reduce burnout risks globally.

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