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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Burnout is an occupational phenomenon that may be a risk factor for several mental health disorders. It is defined by three dimensions namely emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DP), and personal accomplishment (PA). The nursing workforce experiences high levels of burnout taking a toll not only on their mental state but also their intent to stay leading to issues on shortage.

This study aims to assess association of burnout and its dimensions to intent to stay of medical nurses working in a private tertiary hospital in the Philippines.

Analytical cross-sectional study using secondary data conducted by the Nursing Services Group of the private tertiary hospital last March 2023. A survey was done on nurses’ perceptions of their working condition using Maslach Burnout Inventory and McCain’s Intent to Stay tools. Variables were assessed through simple and multiple linear regression analyses.

On simple linear regression, burnout, civil status, years of experience, and years of tenure revealed significance in their respective categories. EE and DP dimensions showed negative association to intent to stay. On multiple linear regression, only burnout (p< 0.000 and -0.028) and those married with children (p< 0.000 and -0.028) had significant association. EE consistently showed negative association however, DP and PA had positive association to intent to stay. In most literatures, DP is associated to lower intent to stay as it is equated to cynicism or detachment in interpersonal relations which can manifest as negative or inappropriate attitudes towards clients, irritability, loss of idealism, and withdrawal (Maslach et al. World Psychiatry 2016; 15 103-11). However, in this study, nurses who were more detached had surprisingly higher intent to stay which may show how cynicism can be protective. It is a cognitive method of creating a protective distance to prevent them from letting their job performance suffer especially when dealing with the physical and emotional exhaustion, and feelings of ineffectiveness caused by excessive and prolonged stress (Akyurt et al. Medical Science and Discover 2023; 10 918-928).

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Consistent with global studies, burnout is associated to lower intent to stay among nurses. However, it is beneficial to have more research looking further into the comprehensive role of cynicism in burnout. In this study, nurses have built some level of cynicism that is able to preserve themselves in negative situations. However, with no proper management, depersonalization can aggravate ultimately leading to feelings of inadequacy and lower intent to stay. A deeper and more contextualized understanding about this phenomenon may help administrators improve existing operations and policies that can help foster a healthier working environment for the nurses.

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The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted primary healthcare services, affecting mental health support and antidepressant prescriptions in England. This study examines shifts in GP referrals and antidepressant prescribing patterns during different phases of lockdown.

This research aims to (1) analyze changes in the rates of antidepressant prescriptions across lockdown periods, and (2) investigate how GP referrals to mental health services, including social prescribing, evolved, with a focus on disparities among ethnic groups.

Using a retrospective design, we analyzed electronic health record data from GP practices in North England, covering March 2018 to June 2023. We employed a two-level negative binomial-logit hurdle model for antidepressant prescriptions and a multinomial logit regression model for referral types.

Antidepressant initiation decreased during lockdowns, while ongoing prescriptions showed minor increases. GP referrals to social prescribing rose significantly, especially among ethnic minorities who also had fewer medical treatments. Lockdown phases influenced referral patterns, with reductions in secondary care referrals and growth in community-based support.

The study highlights a shift towards social prescribing amid the mental health strains of the pandemic, suggesting its role in a social model of health. Ethnic disparities in mental health care access emphasize the need for culturally inclusive, non-clinical mental health support.

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The paradigms of diagnosis and evaluation in mental health are changing due to the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) into other fields. Understanding mental health conditions is greatly aided by insights from neuroscience, immunology, social and clinical psychology, and cultural theories. According to Martyn Evans’ commentary, interdisciplinary work generates new issues and solutions while multidisciplinary work preserves unique viewpoints. In this sense, the interdisciplinary field of psychoneuroimmunology has contributed significantly to our understanding of mental health. It has also contributed significantly to the interplay between the immune system, the endocrine system, and the nervous system. This field could rapidly emerge as a key component of integrative diagnosis and assessment.

This review emphasizes the need for comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment frameworks and the importance of harmonizing disciplines through multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary methodologies to enhance diagnostic possibilities via AI.

A critical review of clinical psychology was conducted, as well as a discussion of the necessity of using integrative methodologies in order to address the interconnected nature of both medical diseases and mental disorders, in light of recent advancements in artificial intelligence.

It has been explored how PNI can serve as an interdisciplinary ground for cross-disciplinary dialogue and how stakeholder perspectives may resolve complexities in clinical assessment and psychiatric diagnosis through extending PNI with AI and applications. Integrating AI into PNI is crucial for revolutionizing mental health care, utilizing machine learning to consolidate diverse data streams and predict outcomes.

Lastly, it was outlined some pragmatic frameworks for clinical assessment, taking into account time, budget constraints, and stakeholder interests. Ethical, governance, and practical challenges of AI integration are discussed. The paper proposes innovative AI-driven enhancements in psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, fostering transformative developments in clinical psychology and promoting a humanistic approach to mental health care.

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The term “co-occurring disorders” (COD) refers to the coexistence of two or more psychiatric disorders especially substance use disorder (SUD) and other psychiatric disorders. In particular, the prevalence of COD increases globally and is linked to a higher risk of worse outcome. Furthermore, especially in adolescence, the goal is to provide an early and proper answer both in terms of care and prevention. On the opposite, there is a lack of integrated management strategies requiring an effective collaboration of different mental health disciplines in order to receive appropriate care. Although European countries have established mental health policies, a lack of comprehensive and structured mental health intervention programs remains.To answer these needs we developed an Integrated Mental Health Service for patients with co-occurring disorders aged up to 30 years, lining varied challenges, including both the interception of patient’s needs and the practical organization of interventions.

This study aims to identify the impact of an Integrated Mental Health Service, “Polo Cassia”, coordinated by a team of professionals based in the same physical location, on the outcome of co-occurring disorders in patients aged up to 30 years at their first contact with mental health services. Furthermore, we aim to identify which transversal clinical dimensions and risk factors might benefit from an early integrated and tailored treatment.

The project is carried out at the Community Mental Health Center (CMHC) of District 15th, ASL Rome 1. The final study sample will include all the patients referred in one year to “Polo Cassia”. Clinical and socio-demographic parameters are collected in details, Global Assessment Functioning (GAF), and Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire (Q-LES-Q) are administered at baseline (To), after 6 months (T1) and 1 year (T2).

Among the study sample referred to Polo Cassia (53% male, mean age 20,33 ±4,47), 50% of the patients comes directly from a first triage evaluation, 35% from other mental health services and 15% from other health services (e.g. diabetes centre). The 60% of the patients have SUD coexisting with other psychiatric disorders. From updated results, we expect to be able to verify the impact of an early integrated treatment on global function and quality of life in our sample of patients. Furthermore, we expect to characterize the transversal clinical dimensions which will actually respond to an early integrated treatment with positive clinical outcomes and subjective satisfaction.

The experience of structured integrated models of care for co-occurring psychiatric disorders is necessary to inform the future development of Mental Health Services.

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The Brazilian psychiatric reform, initiated by Law 10.216 in 2001, brought a significant shift in the treatment of individuals with mental disorders. Focusing on deinstitutionalization and psychosocial care, the reform aimed to replace the hospital-centered model with a community-based services network. Over the past 23 years, this transformation has faced challenges, including the implementation of public policies, the guarantee of human rights, and the effective integration of mental health services.

To analyze the advances, challenges, and impacts of the Brazilian psychiatric reform from 2001 to 2024, with a focus on deinstitutionalization and psychosocial care.

A documentary and bibliographic review was conducted, including legislation, government reports, scientific articles, and data from the Unified Health System (SUS). The research covered publications from 2001 to 2024 in the PubMed, Scielo, and Lilacs databases. The search terms used were “Brazilian psychiatric reform,” “deinstitutionalization,” and “psychosocial care.” The qualitative analysis highlighted legislative changes, service implementation, and challenges.

The psychiatric reform led to significant advances in the structuring of the Psychosocial Care Network (RAPS), including Psychosocial Care Centers (CAPS) and therapeutic residential services. There was a substantial reduction in psychiatric hospital beds and an expansion of community-based services. However, challenges persist, such as regional disparities in service provision and a shortage of qualified professionals.

The implementation of RAPS varied between regions, with the Southeast and South being more developed compared to the North and Northeast. Deinstitutionalization brought benefits, such as social reintegration of patients, but also revealed gaps, including the lack of support for families and strategies for managing crisis situations.

There is an ongoing need for public policies to support the reform, including adequate funding and a focus on human rights. Recent debates on the reintroduction of psychiatric hospitals indicate tensions in mental health policy, underscoring the need to reinforce the principles of the reform.

From 2001 to 2024, the Brazilian psychiatric reform made progress in mental health care, emphasizing deinstitutionalization and the creation of a community-based network. However, challenges such as unequal service provision, a shortage of professionals, and political tensions indicate the need to strengthen the reform’s principles. Public policies should ensure humanized, integrated care based on the rights of individuals with mental disorders, ensuring the expansion of RAPS across the country.

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Equitable access to mental health services is a challenge in Brazil, marked by socioeconomic and regional inequalities. Despite advances in policies such as psychiatric reform and the Psychosocial Care Network (RAPS), barriers persist, especially for vulnerable populations. Issues such as the unequal distribution of resources, stigma, and a lack of professionals impact both access and the quality of care.

To analyze the inequalities in access to mental health services in Brazil and identify strategies to promote equity.

A systematic review was conducted using the PubMed, Scielo, and Lilacs databases, covering studies published between 2015 and 2023. The keywords used were “mental health access,” “health equity,” “Brazil,” and “mental health inequalities.” Inclusion criteria focused on studies addressing access to mental health services in Brazil, highlighting barriers, facilitators, and strategies to promote equity. Data were qualitatively synthesized to identify trends and challenges.

The review revealed significant disparities in access to mental health services, influenced by socioeconomic, geographic, and cultural factors. Remote regions, such as the North and Northeast, suffer from a lack of infrastructure and specialized professionals. While urban centers offer more services, rural areas face considerable limitations. The unequal distribution of professionals, such as psychiatrists and psychologists, exacerbates these inequalities. Stigma surrounding mental illness and a lack of awareness further hinder help-seeking behavior. Vulnerable populations, including Indigenous peoples and residents of favelas, face additional barriers such as discrimination and a lack of culturally adapted services.

The Unified Health System (SUS) provides a model of universal access but faces challenges related to funding, infrastructure, and capacity to meet the growing demand. Despite the efforts of RAPS, many services are overwhelmed, resulting in long waiting times and insufficient care. Strategies like integrating mental health into primary care have shown effectiveness but require more support and expansion.

Equitable access to mental health care in Brazil is impacted by various barriers, including regional disparities and stigma. To promote equity, it is crucial to invest in expanding the mental health care network, focusing on underserved areas and vulnerable populations. Effective policies should include professional training, stigma reduction, and culturally sensitive services. Integrating mental health services with primary care, strengthened by the SUS, is essential to ensure more accessible and comprehensive care.

None Declared

Equitable access to mental health services is essential for the well-being of European citizens. Despite advancements in health policies, significant disparities in access to care persist. Socioeconomic, geographical, cultural, and institutional factors contribute to these inequalities, disproportionately affecting vulnerable groups.

To analyze the inequalities in access to mental health services in Europe and identify effective strategies to promote equity in these services.

This study conducted a systematic literature review using PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO databases to identify studies published between 2015 and 2023. The keywords used were “mental health access,” “health equity,” “Europe,” and “mental health inequalities.” Inclusion criteria focused on studies addressing access to mental health services in Europe and strategies to promote equity. Extracted data were qualitatively synthesized, highlighting trends, barriers, and facilitators to equitable access to mental health services.

The review revealed significant inequalities in access to mental health services in Europe, primarily due to socioeconomic and geographical factors. Low-income individuals face major barriers, such as high costs and lack of coverage by health systems. Rural areas suffer from a shortage of specialized professionals and inadequate infrastructure, making continuous quality care challenging.

Cultural and linguistic factors add further complexity, particularly for migrants and ethnic minorities. The lack of culturally adapted services and sensitivity in therapeutic approaches often leads to inadequate care. Stigma surrounding mental health remains a significant barrier, preventing many from seeking help.

Variations in mental health policies and investments across European countries further exacerbate these inequalities, creating a fragmented landscape of care access. While some countries have robust strategies, others lack consistent policies and adequate funding. Addressing these disparities requires integrated policies, culturally sensitive professional training, and effective stigma-reduction programs.

There is an urgent need to address inequalities in access to mental health services in Europe. Integrated strategies are essential, including policies that promote equity, improvements in rural infrastructure, and culturally sensitive professional training. Reducing stigma through awareness programs is crucial to encourage help-seeking behavior. Harmonizing policies and investments among European countries can contribute to more equitable and effective access, ensuring equal opportunities for mental health treatment and support.

None Declared

Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has been recognized as a condition with profound psychosocial implications, including a higher likelihood of encountering legal problems.

To characterize temperamental characteristics and risk factor for legal problems in a group of ADHD patients.

The study involved patients (>18 years) from the adult ADHD outpatient service of the Psychiatric Clinic of Ancona.ADHD was diagnosed using the Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in adults (DIVA5.0). 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 screened patients were diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood. Among them, 10.2% (n=17) reported legal problems. Men with ADHD were more likely to have legal issues (χ²=7.851; p=0.005). These patients often reported school failures(χ²=3.033; p=0.082) and being tutored by a support teacher(χ²=15.165; p<0.001). Legal issues were more common in those with a childhood diagnosis of ADHD (χ²=4.880; p=0.027) and in those who were admitted to a psychiatric ward (χ²=7.205; p=0.007).Additionally, those who smoked (χ²=6.695; p=0.035) or used substances (χ²=16.399; p<0.001) had more legal issues. Higher use of cannabinoids (χ²=14.311; p<0.001) and stimulants (χ²=12.445; p<0.001) in those who had legal problems are also reported. Generally, those with legal problems have lower schooling (p=0.005), more high school failures (p=0.047), smoke more cigarettes per day (p=0. 008) and have higher scores in the problem-solving subscale of the COPE-NVI (p=0.024), the ambitious subscale of the TCI-R (p=0.058), and the self-transcendence subscale of the TCI-R (p=0.078) and lower mean score in the self-acceptance subscale of the TCI-R (p=0.054). Logistic regression analysis showed to ascertain the effects of all TCI-R subscales, on the likelihood of developing legal problems. The logistic regression model was statistically significant, ▫▫2(1)=4.020, p=0.045. The model explained 14.6% (Nagelkerke R2) of the variance in patients with ADHD who have legal problems and correctly classified 91.9% of cases.Having legal problems was significantly predicted by TCI-R spiritual acceptance subscale (exp(B)=1.150, p=0.045).

The study highlight the significant psychosocial burden of ADHD in adulthood, particularly the increased likelihood of legal problems.Key risk factors include lower educational attainment, substance use, and specific temperamental traits, such as elevated problem-solving and self-transcendence tendencies, alongside lower self-acceptance.

None Declared