Mental health literacy and help-seeking behaviour among Egyptian undergraduates: a cross-sectional national study.

BACKGROUND: Mental health literacy (MHL) and help-seeking behaviors are pivotal in managing mental well-being, especially among Egyptian undergraduates. Despite the importance and prevalent psychological distress in this group, limited research has addressed MHL and associated behaviors in Egypt. This study aimed to assess the levels of MHL and help-seeking behavior among Egyptian university students. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted across ten Egyptian universities during the academic year 2022-2023. A convenience sample of 1740 students was obtained through online questionnaires distributed via social media platforms. The survey comprised demographic characteristics, the Mental Health Literacy Scale (MHLS), and the General Help Seeking Behavior Questionnaire (GHSPQ). RESULTS: Among 1740 Egyptian undergraduates, medical students scored higher in recognizing disorders (p < 0.05), while non-medical students excelled in attitudes (p < 0.05). A strong correlation was observed between attitudes toward mental illness and total mental health literacy (coefficients of 0.664 and 0.657). Univariate analysis indicated a significant association with professional help-seeking (OR = 1.023). Females, individuals aged 21 or above, and non-medical students were more likely to seek mental health information (OR = 1.42, 1.82, 1.55 respectively). Help-seeking behavior for emotional problems was more inclined towards intimate partners, whereas suicidal thoughts prompted seeking professional help. CONCLUSION: The findings advocate for comprehensive mental health education, particularly in rural areas, and emphasis on the role of personal relationships in mental well-being. Implementing these insights could foster improved mental health outcomes and reduce related stigma in Egypt.

Evaluating the Prevalence and Risk Factors of Varicose Veins in Surgeons and Operating Room Staff at Buraidah Center Hospital.

Background Varicose veins (VVs), which are characterized by visible, convoluted veins in the lower limbs, are a prevalent disorder that afflicts a substantial portion of the population. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to look at the prevalence and risk factors for VVs among surgeons and operating room personnel at Buraidah Central Hospital in Saudi Arabia. They usually become worse over time once they develop, which highlights the importance of early intervention and preventive actions. Methodology Data from 91 participants were collected from diverse healthcare professionals between August 2023 and September 2023 via an online questionnaire covering demographics, health, and occupational factors. The chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were employed to examine the correlation between these variables and the occurrence of VVs. Results The data analysis revealed that several specific factors displayed notable associations. Occupations as Surgical Physicians, OR Staff, or Nurse (p=0.009), the number of days worked in the operating room (p=0.040), the role in the operating room, especially those mainly standing (p=0.001), contraceptive pill usage (p=0.000), and vaginal delivery (p=0.037) displayed statistically significant relationships with VVs. In contrast, factors like gender, age group, ethnicity, family history of VVs, social status, smoking habits, exercise frequency, BMI, lifting heavy objects, and years in the field did not reveal substantial associations with VVs, as indicated by p-values exceeding 0.05. Conclusion The study identified a low VV diagnosis prevalence, with an equal distribution among male and female respondents. Key factors that contribute to the risk of developing VVs include the number of days worked in the operating room, the role in the operating room, a family history of VVs, contraceptive pill usage, and the method of delivery.