Sleep quality and associated factors among university students in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis study.

Background: Poor sleep quality significantly impacts academic performance in university students. However, inconsistent and inconclusive results were found in a study on sleep among university students in several African nations. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence and associated factors of poor sleep quality among university students in Africa. Methods: The databases PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, African Journal Online, and Google Scholar were searched to identify articles. A total of 35 primary articles from 11 African countries were assessed and included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Data were extracted by using a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and exported to STATA version 14 for analysis. The I2 test was used to assess the statistical heterogeneity. A random effect meta-analysis model was employed with 95% confidence intervals. Funnel plots analysis and Egger regression tests were used to check the presence of publication bias. A subgroup analysis and a sensitivity analysis were done. Results: A total of 16,275 study participants from 35 studies were included in this meta-analysis and systematic review. The overall pooled prevalence of poor sleep quality among university students in Africa was 63.31% (95% CI: 56.91-65.71) I2 = 97.2. The subgroup analysis shows that the combined prevalence of poor sleep quality in East, North, West, and South Africa were 61.31 (95% CI: 56.91-65.71), 62.23 (95% CI: 54.07-70.39), 54.43 (95% CI: 47.39-61.48), and 69.59 (95% CI: 50.39-88.80) respectively. Being stressed (AOR= 2.39; 95% CI: 1.63 to 3.51), second academic year (AOR= 3.10; 95% CI: 2.30 to 4.19), use of the electronic device at bedtime (AOR= 3.97 95% CI: 2.38 to 6.61)) and having a comorbid chronic illness (AOR = 2.71; 95% CI: 1.08, 6.82) were factors significantly associated with poor sleep quality. Conclusion: This study shows that there is a high prevalence of poor sleep quality among university students in Africa. Being stressed, in the second year, using electronic devices at bedtime, and having chronic illness were factors associated with poor sleep quality. Therefore, addressing contributing factors and implementing routine screenings are essential to reduce the burden of poor sleep quality. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42023493140.

Suicidal ideation, attempt and associated factors among prisoners in Northwest Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Suicide is a prominent source of harm and death globally, and it is the leading cause of premature death among prisoners. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with suicidal ideation and attempt among prisoners in Northwest Ethiopia. METHODS: An institution-based cross-sectional study design was performed from May 23 to June 22, 2022. After proportional allocation to the three correctional institutions, a total of 788 study participants were randomly recruited. The World Health Organization Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI) was used to evaluate suicide ideation and attempt. To determine factors associated with suicidal ideation and attempt, multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted. At a 95% confidence interval (CI) of P-value <0.05, statistical significance was declared. RESULTS: The prevalence of suicidal ideation and attempt among prisoners was 23.6% and 10.7%, with 95% CI (20.76, 26.70) and (8.68, 13.02), respectively. Female sex (AOR = 2.38, 95% CI: 1.12, 5.05), family history of mental illness (AOR = 3.09, 95% CI: 1.93, 4.88), depression (AOR = 2.04, 95% CI: 1.43, 2.98), poor social support (AOR = 2.76, 95% CI: 1.56, 4.85) and previous incarceration (AOR = 1.84, 95% CI: 1.18, 2.86) were significantly associated with suicidal ideation. However, being single (AOR = 2.58, 95% CI: 1.47, 4.54), family history of suicide (AOR = 2.43, 95% CI: 1.18, 5.01), depression (AOR = 2.62, 95% CI: 1.59, 4.31) and previous imprisonments (AOR = 2.11, 95% CI: 1.20, 3.69) were associated with suicidal attempt. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of suicidal ideation and attempt among prisoners were found to be high. Therefore, the findings of this study recommend that early detection and design of prison mental health services should be delivered to develop mental health care, prevention, and intervention programs for incarcerated people to improve suicidal behavior in prison.

Prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder and associated factors among displaced people in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: The number of people who have been displaced from their homes due to violence, conflict, and natural disasters. The displaced persons are vulnerable to PTSD; however, being women, individuals with lower socio-economic status and intense exposure to physical assault are more vulnerable. The reviews stated that the pooled prevalence of PTSD among refugees in high-income countries was higher than the general population. However, there has been no review done on PTSD among displaced persons in Africa. Therefore, the aim of this review was to summarise the most recent data evidence on the pooled prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder and the pooled effect of associated factors on adult displaced people in Africa. Methods: We used an appropriate guideline for systematic reviews and meta-analyses reports, which is the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). This review protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023411371). The publications were identified from PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Scopus databases, and other grey searches of Google Scholar and World Health Organisation (WHO) reports. The data was extracted in Microsoft Excel, and then it will be imported into STATA 11.0 for analysis. Results: We have included 10 studies conducted in African countries with 5287 study participants. In this meta-analysis, the pooled prevalence of PTSD among displaced people in Africa was 55.64 (95% CI: 42.76-68.41%). Further, in subgroup analysis regarding the study participants, the pooled prevalence of PTSD among internally displaced people and refugees was 56.35% and 54.04%, respectively. Among the associated factors, being female, unemployed, and depression were significantly related to PTSD among displaced people. Conclusions: In this review, the pooled prevalence of PTSD among displaced people in Africa was high. Demographic characteristics (female, single, and unemployed), substance use disorder, and depression were risk factors for PTSD among displaced people. This finding might help the stakeholders (mental health policy makers, administrators, and mental health professionals) to address the prevention, early screening, and management of PTSD among displaced people and to give attention to more vulnerable bodies. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO, identifier CRD42023411371.

Anxiety disorders among youth with substance use and associated factors in Northwest Ethiopia: A community-based study.

INTRODUCTION: Anxiety disorder is an unpleasant emotional feeling with symptoms related to psychological and autonomic symptoms such as headache, perspiration, palpitations, dizziness, and stomach discomfort. The use of substances become a worldwide problem among youth which brings situation that leads to serious social and health-related problems. Anxiety disorders with substance use have a huge impact on their high prevalence, therapeutic issues, and poor prognosis on clinical effects. Although the prevalence of anxiety disorders is significant among young people who use substances, limited studies were conducted. Therefore, this study revealed the burden of anxiety disorders among youth with substance use and associated factors in Ethiopia. METHOD: A community-based multi-stage with a simple random sampling technique was conducted. A total of 372 substance users study participants were recruited for this study. Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Tests, Depression Anxiety Stress Scales, and other tools were used to assess anxiety disorders with substance use and associated factors. Data were entered into Epi-data version 4.6, and exported to SPSS version 20 for further analysis. Bi-variables logistic regression analysis was employed to identify variables with a p-value of < 0.2 and associated factors were determined in multi-variables logistic regression analysis with a p-value < 0.05 with AOR and CI. RESULTS: From a total of 372 respondents the overall prevalence of anxiety disorders with substance use was 48.1%. Male sex [AOR = 1.99; 95% CI: (1.01-3.93)], low educational status of the father [AOR = 6.38 95%CI: (1.50-7.08)], and the presence of stress [AOR = 2.48; 95% CI: 2.48(2.43-4.40)] were significantly associated factors with anxiety disorders with substances use. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: The prevalence of anxiety disorders with substance use was 48.1% therefore; it is recommended that the zonal administration give collaborative work with the health bureau and facilitate awareness creation about the impact of substance abuse. Clinicians are recommended to mitigate anxiety disorders with substance use to get a good prognosis for clients with controlling their stress.

Prevalence and factors associated with depressive symptoms among patients with epilepsy in Ethiopia: a national-based systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Depression is a major public health problem and negatively affects the quality of life of patients with epilepsy. Despite multiple studies investigating the magnitude and predictors, the results have been inconsistent. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence and factors associated with depressive symptoms among patients with epilepsy in Ethiopia. Methods: The primary articles were searched using databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, CINAHL, SCOPUS, EMBASE, and African Journal Online. A total of 10 primary articles that assessed the prevalence and factors associated with depressive symptoms among patients with epilepsy in Ethiopia were included. A Microsoft Excel spreadsheet was used to extract the data, which was then exported to Stata version 14 for further analysis. The statistical heterogeneity was evaluated using the I2 test. Due to heterogeneity, a random effect meta-analysis model was employed. Publication bias was checked through Egger's weighted regression test and funnel plot. Results: A total of 10 primary studies with 3,532 participants were included. The pooled prevalence of depressive symptoms among patients with epilepsy was found to be 41.69% (95% CI, 37.70, 45.68). The pooled prevalence of depressive symptoms was 48.61, 42.98, 40.68, 38.27, and 34.80% in Oromia, SNNPs, Amhara, Addis Ababa, and Tigray, respectively, based on a sub-group analysis per regional state. Perceived stigma (AOR = 3.30, 95% CI: 1.40, 7.80), seizure frequency (AOR = 3.81, 95% CI: 1.03, 14.09), and perceived stress (AOR = 4.6, 95% CI: 1.05, 20.06) were factors associated with depressive symptoms. Conclusion: We found that depressive symptoms affects at least four out of ten patients with epilepsy, indicating an immense burden. Depressive symptoms were extremely prevalent in those who had high levels of stigma, a monthly seizure frequency of once or more, and perceived stress. Therefore, physicians should take extra precautions when treating patients with epilepsy who have certain conditions. Systematic review registration: This study was registered according to The International Prospective Register of Systemic Review (PROSPERO) with the registration ID (CRD42023484308).

Prevalence of premenstrual syndrome and its associated factors in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Clinical research and epidemiological studies have shown that many women experience physical and behavioral symptoms that begin during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and terminate around the onset of menses; this is called premenstrual syndrome. The reviews stated that the pooled prevalence of premenstrual syndrome was around 50 percent. However, there has been no review done on premenstrual syndrome in Africa. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to summarize the most recent data evidence on the pooled prevalence of premenstrual syndrome and its pooled effect of associated factors in Africa. Method: We used an appropriate guideline for systematic reviews and meta-analyses reports, which is the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). This review protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023414021). The publications were identified from PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, Scopus databases, and other grey searches. The included papers were the original data that reported the prevalence of premenstrual syndrome and associated factors published, in English, and papers available online from January 1, 2000, to May 30, 2023. The data was extracted in Microsoft Excel, and then it would be imported into STATA 11.0 for analysis. Results: We have included 16 studies conducted in African countries with 6530 study participants. In this meta-analysis, the pooled prevalence of premenstrual syndrome among the reproductive-age participants in Africa was 46.98 (95% CI: 28.9-65.06%). Further, in subgroup analysis, the pooled prevalence of premenstrual syndrome was 57.32% in Nigeria, 43.8% in Ethiopia, and 38.6% among university students and 66.04% among secondary school students. Among associated factors, the early age of menarche was significantly related to premenstrual syndrome. Conclusion: In this review, the pooled prevalence of premenstrual syndrome in Africa was high. Among factors, the early age of menarche was a risk factor for premenstrual syndrome. This finding might help the stakeholders (mental health policy makers, administrators, and mental health professionals) to address prevention, early screening, and management of PMS among reproductive-age women, and to give attention to more vulnerable bodies. Systematic review registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, identifier CRD42023414021.

Psychiatric comorbidity in people with epilepsy in Ethiopia: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Psychiatric comorbidity is a double burden among people with epilepsy. Since people with epilepsy are more vulnerable to psychiatric illnesses. So, the implementation of an appropriate intervention to minimize the double burden of comorbidity is very important. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of psychiatric comorbidity among people with epilepsy in Ethiopia. METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis followed the Preferred Reporting Item Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guideline. Searching databases were PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and HINARI.The quality of the included articles was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). The pooled meta-logistic regression was computed to estimate the pooled prevalence and the risk factors with a 95% CI. RESULTS: The pooled prevalence of psychiatric comorbidity in people with epilepsy was 34.69 % (95 % CI: 29.27, 40.10). Frequent seizures (POR = 2.94: 95 % CI: 1.08, 8.00) and a history of divorce (POR = 2.00: 95 % CI: 1.09, 3.81) were associated factors of psychiatric comorbidity in people with epilepsy. CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review and meta-analysis revealed that the pooled prevalence of psychiatric comorbidity among people with epilepsy was found to be higher compared with the general population. Therefore, among people with epilepsy, parallel psychiatric evaluation is very important along with neurological evaluation.

Advanced-stage presentation of cancer at the time of diagnosis and its associated factors among adult cancer patients at Northwest Amhara comprehensive specialized hospitals, Northwest Ethiopia 2022.

INTRODUCTION: Screening of cancer is the maximum effort and critical element for providing health related care in order to decrease cancer related dealt because of the disease burden is in its advanced stages. Unfortunately, advanced-stage presentation and late diagnosis of cancers endure a problem in low-income countries including Ethiopia. However, there is scarcity of published articles about the problem in Ethiopia. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of advanced-stage -stage presentation of cancer at the time of diagnosis and associated factors among adult cancer patients at Northwest Amhara comprehensive Specialized Hospitals, oncology treatment units, Northwest Ethiopia, 2022. METHODS: An institution based cross-sectional study was conducted in Northwest Amhara public referral hospitals on 422 study participants. A systematic random sampling technique was performed. The data were collected through face to face interview and document review via structured, pretested questionnaires. Epi. Data version 4.6 and Stata version 14.0 software's were used for data entry and analysis respectively. Logistic regression were carried out to recognize factors associated with advanced-stage -stage presentation of cancer at the time of diagnosis. Adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval were used to measure the strength of association. Variables having p-value less than 0.2 in bivariable analysis were entered in to multivariable analysis; variables with a p-value < 0.05 were declared significantly associated with advanced-stage -stage presentation of cancer at the time of diagnosis. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of advanced-stage presentation of cancer at the time of diagnosis was found to be 67.57%. Age ≥ 60 years old patients (AOR = 6.10, 95%: (1.16-32.1)), patients had have a feeling of burden (AOR = 1.82, 95%, CI: (1.04-3.20)), and cancer patients with comorbidity illness (AOR = 2.40, 95%, CI: (1.40-4.12)) were significantly associated with advanced-stage presentation of cancer at the time of diagnosis. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of advanced-stage presentation of cancer at the time of diagnosis was found to be high. Its better, health care providers in oncology treatment facilities need to give special attention to older patients, having feeling of burden and cancer patient with comorbidity to reduce the risk of developing late stage presentation of cancer.

Substance use and associated factors among high school students in Northwest Ethiopia.

Introduction: substance abuse is the use of a drug that affects both the function and the structure of the brain by altering the activity neurotransmitters of particular pathways in the central nervous system that affect the mood, perception, and consciousness of the person. Methods: a cross-sectional study design was employed among 422 high school students. Study participants were selected by simple random sampling from all five high school students. A self-reported questionnaire was used that included alcohol, smoking, and substance involvement screening test, Oslo-3 social support, and other instruments. Data were checked, coded, and entered into Epi-Data version 4.6.2 then exported to the statistical package for social sciences version 20 for analysis. Bi-variable and multi-variable logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with substance use. Adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were determined and predictors with a p-value of <0.05 were counted as significantly associated. Results: a total of 406 students have participated with an overall response rate of 96.2% (n=406). Of the participants 235 were female and 171 were male. The mean age was 17.51 with a standard deviation of ±1.42. The prevalence of substance use among study participants was 52.5%. Being male aOR: 1.77, 95% CI 1.11-2.77, family history of substance use aOR: 3.07, 95% CI 1.57-6.01, and having close friends´ pressure aOR: 5.77, 95% CI 2.39-13.89 were significantly associated with substances use among high school students. Conclusion: the prevalence of substance use among high school students was high. Being male, family history of substance use, and having peer pressures were strongly associated with substance use.

Common mental disorders and associated factors among Ethiopian prisoners: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Common mental disorders are a major public health concern in the world and negatively influence people's psychological, physical, economic, and overall well-being. Since prisoners live with restricted freedom and lack regular social interaction like communication with family and friends, the prevalence of common mental disorders is frequently found to be higher among prisoners compared to the general population. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of common mental disorders and their associated factors among prisoners in Ethiopia. Methods: The primary published studies were searched by using different databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, CINHAL, and African Journal Online. A total of eight primary articles that assessed the prevalence and associated factors of common mental disorders among Ethiopian prisoners were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The data were extracted using the data extraction format in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and exported to Stata version 14 for further analysis. The statistical heterogeneity was assessed by the I2 test. Due to the presence of heterogeneity among included studies, a random effect meta-analysis model was employed. Egger's weighted regression test and funnel plots were used to check the presence of publication bias. Results: A total of 8 primary studies with 3,585 study participants were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of common mental disorders among Ethiopian prisoners was 62.29% with a 95% CI (50.94, 73.65). The subgroup analysis based on regional state revealed that the pooled prevalence of common mental disorders in Amhara, Oromia, and the other two regions (Addis Ababa and SNNPR) was 72.4, 50.23, and 54.25%, respectively. History of mental illness (AOR = 6.21, 95% CI: 3.27, 11.80), poor social support (AOR = 3.90, 95% CI: 1.45, 10.51), and traumatic life events (AOR = 3.63, 95% CI: 1.04, 12.73) were significantly associated with a common mental disorder in this review. Conclusion: In this systematic review and meta-analysis, the pooled prevalence of common mental disorders among prisoners was high. Therefore, improving the delivery of mental health services in correctional institutions has a major contribution to the reduction of the disorder, and incarcerated people require more attention and early intervention for common mental disorders.

Depressive symptoms and associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Comprehensive Specialized Hospitals in Northwest Ethiopia, 2022: an institution-based cross-sectional study.

Background: Depression during pregnancy has a significant impact on public health as it can adversely affect both the mother's and the child's health. These can have devastating effects on the mother, the unborn child, and the entire family. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depressive symptoms and associated factors among pregnant women in Ethiopia. Method: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among pregnant women attending antenatal care services at comprehensive specialized hospitals in Northwest Ethiopia from May to June 2022. Measurement: The desired data were collected through face-to-face interview techniques by using validated questionnaires such as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, the Oslo-3 social support scale, and the Abuse Assessment Screen tools. The data were analyzed by using SPSS Version 25. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with antenatal depressive symptoms. Variables having a p-value of <0.2 in the bivariate analysis were entered into the multivariable logistic regression. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant, at 95% CI. Results: This study revealed that 91 (19.2%) pregnant women screened positive for depressive symptoms. According to multivariable logistic regression, living in rural areas (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.58, 95% CI: 1.267, 5.256), being in the second or third trimesters of gestational phase (AOR = 4.40, 95% CI: 1.949, 9.966 and AOR = 5.42, 95% CI: 2.438, 12.028, respectively), having a history of alcohol use (AOR = 2.41, 95% CI: 1.099, 5.260), having moderate or poor social support (AOR = 2.55, 95% CI: 1.220, 5.338 and AOR = 2.41, 95% CI: 1.106, 5.268), and having a history of intimate partner violence (AOR = 2.67, 95% CI: 1.416, 5.016) were the factors significantly associated with depressive symptoms at a p-value of ≤ 0.05. Conclusion and recommendation: The prevalence of depressive symptoms among pregnant women was high. Living in rural areas, second and third trimesters, use of alcohol, having moderate to poor social support, and having a history of intimate partner violence were variables significantly associated with depressive symptoms during pregnancy.

Mental healthcare services satisfaction and its associated factors among patients with mental disorders on follow-up in the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia.

Background: Patient mental healthcare services satisfaction is a crucial component in evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of clinical service delivery. It can be explained as the client's reaction to various aspects of the services they receive and their subjective assessment of the healthcare facilities and healthcare givers. Despite the importance of measuring mental healthcare services satisfaction, few studies have been conducted in Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of mental healthcare services satisfaction among patients with mental disorders who were on follow-up at the University of Gondar Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia. Method: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from June 1, 2022 to July 21, 2022. All the study participants were interviewed on the follow-up visit consecutively. The Mental Healthcare Services Satisfaction Scale tool was used to measure patient satisfaction, and the Oslo-3 Social Support Scale and other questionnaires, such as environmental factors and clinical factors, were also screened. The data were checked for completeness, entered and coded using Epi-data version 4.6, and exported to Stata version 14 software for analysis. Bivariable logistic and multivariable regression analyses were employed to identify the factors significantly associated with satisfaction. Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to report the result at a p-value of <0.05. Results: A total of 402 study participants were included in this study, with a response rate of 99.7%. The proportions of male and female participants who were satisfied with the mental healthcare services were 59.29 and 40.70%, respectively. The overall mental healthcare services satisfaction was 65.46% with a 95% CI of 59.90, 70.62. Not being admitted to psychiatry [AOR: 4.94; 95% CI (1.30, 8.76)], getting their drugs in the hospital [AOR: 1.34; 95% CI (3.58, 8.74)], and having strong social support [AOR: 6.40; 95% CI (2.64, 8.28)] were significantly associated with satisfaction. Conclusion: The prevalence of mental healthcare services satisfaction is very low; therefore, more is expected to be done to enhance the satisfaction of the patients who access these services via psychiatry clinics. Enhancing the social support of clients, making drugs available in the hospital, and improving the service received by the admitted client are necessary to increase the healthcare service satisfaction of clients on the whole. The services delivered in psychiatry units must be improved to achieve good patient satisfaction, which might be helpful for the improvement of the disorders.

Psychotic symptoms and its associated factors relating to psychoactive substance use among the youth population in Northwest Ethiopia.

Background: Substance use is associated with high rates of psychiatric symptoms including psychotic symptoms. Despite the severity of the problem, there are intervention gaps in Ethiopia. To combat this, relevant evidence is required to raise the awareness of service providers. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of psychotic symptoms and its associated factors among the youth population who uses psychoactive substances in the Central Gondar Zone, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among the youth population in the Central Gondar zone, Northwest Ethiopia, from 01 January to 30 March 2021. A multistage sampling technique was used to recruit the study participants. All data were collected using questionnaires assessing socio-demographic; family-related variables; Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale; Multidimensional Scale Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and Self-Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ-24). The data were analyzed using the STATA 14 statistical program. Results: A total of 372 young people who used psychoactive substances (79.57%, 53.49%, 34.14%, and 16.13% were consuming alcohol, Khat, tobacco/cigarette products, and other substances such as shisha, inhalants, and drugs, respectively) were included in the study. The prevalence of psychotic symptoms was 24.2% with a 95% CI: 20.1, 28.8. Being married [AOR = 1.87 95% CI: 1.06, 3.48], recent loss of loved ones [AOR = 1.97 95% CI: 1.10, 3.18], low perceived social support [AOR = 1.61 95% CI: 1.11, 3.02], and severe psychological distress [AOR = 3.23 95% CI; 1.64, 6.54] were the factors associated with psychotic symptoms among young people with psychoactive substances use at a p-value of < 0.05. Conclusion: Psychotic symptoms related to psychoactive substances among the youth population in Northwest Ethiopia were high. Thus, it is better to give a special attention to the youth population with low social support and existing psychological distress concurrent with psychoactive substance use.

Post-traumatic stress disorder and associated factors among adults exposed to stress in Ethiopia: A meta-analysis and systematic review.

Objective: Post-traumatic stress disorder is a complex psychiatric disorder that develops after exposure to traumatic events, such as violent physical assaults, accidents, rape, natural disasters, and conflicts, stranger than usual human experiences. The typical presentation of intrusive thoughts, the persistence of the trauma, the avoidance of pertinent stimuli, emotional numbness, and physiological hyperarousal are the characteristics of this anxiety symptom. Despite the presence of a study conducted on this problem, the pooled effect, particularly in Ethiopia, is not known; therefore, this study assessed the allover burden of post-traumatic stress disorder. Method: The available study was extracted and conducted on post-traumatic stress disorder and its associated factors in Ethiopia by three independent authors. The data were analyzed by using STATA version 11 after extraction was done on a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. The random-effect model was used to estimate the pooled effect size of post-traumatic stress disorder and its effect in the previous studies with 95% confidence intervals. Funnel plots analysis and Egger regression tests were conducted to detect the presence of publication bias. A subgroup analysis and a sensitivity analysis were done. Result: Thirteen (13) studies were included with a total of 5874 study participants in this meta-analysis and systematic reviews. The pooled prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder in Ethiopia was 39.28% with a 95% confidence interval (26.54, 52.01). Poor social support (adjusted odds ratio = 2.86; 95% confidence interval (1.81, 4.53)), being female (adjusted odds ratio = 1.89; 95% confidence interval (1.53, 2.34)), presence of previous mental illness (adjusted odds ratio = 4.72; 95% confidence interval (2.62, 8.36)), and witness (adjusted odds ratio = 2.01; 95% confidence interval (1.30, 3.11)) were associated with post-traumatic stress disorder. Conclusion: The burden of post-traumatic stress disorder in this meta-analysis and systematic review is high; therefore, immediate intervention is needed for those specific traumatized individuals.

Social phobia of Ethiopian students: meta-analysis and systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Social anxiety disorder is defined as the fear of social situations, incorporating situations that involve contact with strangers. People highly fear embarrassing themselves which includes situations like social gatherings, oral presentations, and meeting new people. People with social phobia have nonspecific fears of practicing vague or, performing specific tasks like eating or speaking in front of others. In people with social anxiety disorder, worry can arise from both the circumstance itself and embarrassment from others, for students, social phobia is an overwhelming fear of speaking in front of others or giving presentations in class. The prevalence of social phobia among different studies in Ethiopia was inconsistent and inconclusive therefore, this study showed the cumulative burden of social phobia among students in Ethiopia. METHOD: Observational studies published on social phobia and associated factors among students in Ethiopia were included in this study based on the criteria after independent selection by two authors. Data were extracted by Microsoft Excel spreadsheet to be exported to Stata version 11 for further analysis. The random-effect model was used to estimate the pooled effect size of social phobia and its effect on the previous studies with 95% confidence intervals. Funnel plots analysis and Egger regression tests were conducted to detect the presence of publication bias. Sub-group analysis and sensitivity analysis were done. RESULT: A total of 2878 study participants from seven studies were included in this meta-analysis and systematic review. The pooled prevalence of social phobia among students in Ethiopia was 26.81% with a 95% CI (22.31-31.30). The pooled effect size of social phobia in Oromia, Amhara, and SNNPs regions was 24.76%, 24.76%, and 29.47%, respectively. According to the subgroup analysis, university, and college/high school students were 28.05% and 25.34% respectively. Being female [AOR = 2.11 (95% CI 1.72-2.60)], having poor social support [AOR = 2.38 (95% CI 1.54-3.70)], substance use [AOR = 2.25 (95% CI 1.54-3.30)], single parent [AOR = 5.18 (95% CI 3.30-8.12)], and rural residence [AOR = 2.29 (95% CI 1.91-2.75)] were significantly associated in this meta-analysis in Ethiopia. CONCLUSION: The pooled prevalence of social phobia in this meta-analysis and systematic review was high (26.81%) among students therefore, the educational bureau needs to work on decreasing the burden of social phobia to raise the academic achievement and creativity of the students. In therapeutic advice like exposure to presentations, family members take the responsibility for the students' therapy and expose them to various social interactions.

Prevalence and associated factors of depression, anxiety, and stress among high school students in, Northwest Ethiopia, 2021.

BACKGROUND: Many studies have revealed that students' performance in school, is affected by symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, which may impair their academic achievement, and lead to school dropout. However, to date, no studies have evaluated these three disorders among high school students in Africa. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to assess the prevalence of depression, anxiety, stress, and their associated factors among high school students in Northwest Ethiopia. METHODS: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 849 participants from six high schools in Northwest Ethiopia. A self-administered Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) questionnaire was used to collect the data. Data were analyzed using SPSS Version 25.0 software to identify factors associated with DAS, and bi-variable and multi-variable analyses were performed. RESULTS: The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress was 41.4, 66.7, and 52.2% respectively. Being female (AOR = 1.304, 95% CI = 1.006-1.849), higher risky khat chewers (AOR = 5.595, 95% CI = 2.357-11.132), having social phobia (AOR = 1.416, 95% CI = 1.045-1.919) were associated with depression. Being higher risky cigarette smokers (AOR = 4.777, 95% CI = 1.407-7304), having a history of chronic medical illness (AOR = 2.099, 95% CI = 1.045-4.218), and having a family history of mental illness (AOR = 1.777, 95% CI = 1.028-3.073) associated with anxiety. Stress was associated with high-risk alcohol drinkers (AOR = 1.828, 95% CI = 1.012-3.303), rural residency (AOR = 1.395, 95%CI = 1.010-1.925), and low social support (AOR 1.7391, 95% CI = 1.203-2.515). CONCLUSION: The burden of DAS among high school students was found to be high. Female sex, chewing khat, and having social phobia are associated with depression. Conversely, smoking cigarettes, having a chronic medical illness, and having a family history of mental illness are all linked to anxiety. Being a highly risky alcoholic drinker, having poor social support, and being a rural resident are positively associated with stress. Therefore, extending mental health services to all high schools, and strengthening the existing counseling services, are recommended.

Common mental disorders and associated factors among high school students in Debre Markos Town, Northwest Ethiopia: an institutional-based cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Common mental disorders include anxiety, depression and somatic symptoms. These pose significant public health problems because of their serious effects on personal well-being, social and occupational functions. They also can affect the health and quality of life of people in adolescence, because this age group has been vulnerable to different factors. According to the American Psychiatry Association, more than 60% of adolescents fulfil the criteria for at least one common mental disorder. Despite the high burden of the disorders, there are limited studies in Ethiopia; therefore, this study provided the prevalence of common mental disorders among students in Ethiopia. METHODS: From 5 May to 30 May 2021, an institutional-based cross-sectional study was undertaken. Simple random sampling was used to select study participants from each class level across all high schools. A self-administered survey was used that included Self-Reporting Questionnaire 20, Oslo Social Support Scale-3 and other semistructured instruments for the screening of common mental disorders. Data were checked, coded and entered into Epi-Data V.4.6.0, then exported to SPSS V.20 for analysis. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were done to identify factors associated with common mental disorders. Adjusted ORs with 95% CIs were calculated and variables with a p value of <0.05 were considered as significantly associated with common mental disorders. RESULTS: A total of 600 high school students were recruited with a response rate of 93.2%. The overall prevalence of common mental disorders among the participants was 181 (32.4%). Being female (adjusted OR (AOR)=1.93; 95% CI: 1.27 to 2.99), a family history of mental illness (AOR=2.23; 95% CI: 1.15 to 4.35), poor social support (AOR=3.14; 95% CI: 1.51 to 6.54), a history of non-physical sexual abuse (AOR=2.09; 95% CI: 1.21 to 3.62) and a history of physical sexual abuse (AOR=2.43; 95% CI: 1.29 to 4.59) were significantly associated with common mental disorders. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION: The prevalence of common mental disorders was 32.4% among students; therefore, it is recommended facilitating institutional-based intervention services in the school to decrease the contributing factors for the common mental disorders.

Prevalence and associated factors of social phobia among high school adolescents in Northwest Ethiopia, 2021.

Background: Social phobia is the third most common mental illness in the world. It harms educational achievement by increasing school absentees and prevents students to participate in class, and this leads to a significant impairment of the emotional, psychological, social, and physical wellbeing of students. The research done regarding social phobia and associated factors among high school students in low- and middle-income countries is limited. Therefore, this study aims to assess the prevalence and associated factors of social phobia among adolescents and have a pivotal role in further investigation. Objectives: To assess the prevalence and associated factors of social phobia among high school adolescents in Northwest Ethiopia, 2021. Materials and methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 15 April to 14 May 2021, by using a simple random sampling technique to select a sample of 936 participants after proportional allocation to the six high schools. Social phobia was assessed by using the social phobia inventory (SPIN), independent variables like social support were assessed by Oslo social support scale, substance-related factors by ASSIST, and the rest of the other factors were assessed by structured questionnaires. Binary and multivariate analyses were done to identify factors associated with social phobia. Statistical significance was declared at a 95% confidence interval (CI) of p-value less than or equal to 0.05. Result: The prevalence of social phobia among adolescents was found to be 40.2% (95% CI 37.0 to 43.4%). In the multivariable analysis, female sex (AOR = 1.374, 95% CI = 1.016, 1.858), poor social support (AOR = 2.408, 95% CI = 1.660, 3.493), having known chronic medical illness (AOR = 2.131, 95% CI = 1.173, 3.870), having a history of mental illness in the family (AOR = 1.723, 95% CI = 1.071, 2.773), and is highly risky alcohol user (AOR = 1.992 95% CI 1.034, 3.838) were factors significantly associated with social phobia symptoms. Conclusion: The overall prevalence of SP among adolescents was high. Therefore, early detection and adequate intervention are crucial to reducing the overall burden of social phobia among adolescents.

COVID-19 preventive practice and associated factors in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objectives: COVID-19 is a global health concern due to its rapid spread and impact on morbidity and mortality. Implementing preventive measures plays an essential role in curbing the spread of COVID-19 infection. This study aimed to assess COVID-19 preventive practice and associated factors in Ethiopia. Study design: This study was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines. Methods: Medline, PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, EMBASE, African Journal Online (AJOL) and Science Direct search engines were used to identify relevant articles published up to early December 2021. The Joana Brigg's Institute (JBI) checklist was used for quality appraisal. A random-effect model was fitted to calculate the pooled estimates. Higgins I2 statistics and Egger's test with funnel plots were analysed to check heterogeneity and publication bias, respectively. Due to significant heterogeneity, subgroup analysis by region, study population, study design and publication year, as well as sensitivity analysis, were done to assess the source of heterogeneity. Results: The pooled level of poor preventive practice for COVID-19 in Ethiopia was 51.60% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 40.30-62.90). Poor COVID-19 preventive practice declined from 61% in studies published in 2020 to 45% in 2021. Lack of knowledge about COVID-19 (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 4.61 [95% CI: 2.49-10.73]), a negative attitude towards COVID-19 management (AOR = 2.64 [95% CI: 1.82-3.82]), rural residence (AOR = 2.95 [95% CI: 2.12-4.12]), a low educational level (AOR = 2.93 [95% CI: 2.16-3.98]) and being female (AOR = 1.75 [95% CI: 1.27-2.40]) were significantly associated with a poor level of COVID-19 preventive practice in Ethiopia. Conclusions: The level of poor COVID-19 preventive practice in Ethiopia was relatively high. Poor COVID-19 prevention practices were significantly correlated with inadequate COVID-19 knowledge, a negative attitude towards COVID-19 management, low educational attainment, living in a rural area and being female. Creating awareness and health education programmes targeting COVID-19 prevention should be strengthened, especially in the target populations identified in this study.

Quality of life and associated factors among the youth with substance use in Northwest Ethiopia: Using structural equation modeling.

BACKGROUND: Substance use leads to serious clinical conditions with the potential to cause major health and emotional impairments in individuals. Individuals with substance use typically report significantly poorer QoL than the general population and as low as those with other serious psychiatric disorders. It has a high impact on morbidity, mortality, and productivity, it also compromises the general safety and performance of the users, i.e., affects the quality of life. Therefore, this study aimed to assess quality of life and identify the potential predictors among youths who use substances. METHODS: A multicenter cross-sectional study design was applied to assess quality of life and associated factors among substance use youths in the central Gondar zone from January 1 to March 30/ 2021. A total of 373 substance use youths were included in the study. The data were collected using face-to-face interview by structured questionnaires, and entered to Epi-data version 4.6 and exported to STATA version 16, and AMOS software for further statistical analysis. To identify factors associated with health-related quality of life, structural equation modeling was used, and it also used to estimate the relationships among exogenous, mediating, and endogenous variables. RESULTS: Substance used youths had a moderate overall health-related quality of life (mean score = 50.21 and 14.32 standard deviation, p-value < 0.,0001), and poor health-related quality of life in the environmental health domain (mean score of 45.76 with standard deviation of 17.60). Age (ß = 0.06, p<0.001), sex (ß = 0.30, p<0.001), psychotic symptoms (ß = -0.12, p<0.001), employment status (ß = 0.06, p = 0.008,), loss of family (ß = 0.35, p<0.001), and social support (ß = 0.27, p<0.001) were variables significantly associated with health-related quality of life. CONCLUSION: According to the findings of this study, substance abuse during adolescence is associated with lower health-related quality of life and a higher report of psychopathological symptoms. Given this finding, mental health and health promotion professionals should learn about and emphasize the impact of substance use on youth quality of life.