Understanding the family burden and caregiver role in stroke rehabilitation: insights from a retrospective study.

INTRODUCTION: Stroke negatively impacts both patients and their families, who must face multiple changes after the onset of the disease. Family caregivers must face new problems with a possible sense of inadequacy, stress and burden. Our retrospective study aimed to assess the burden of caregivers during the rehabilitation process of patients with Stroke. MATERIAL AND METHOD: This study included patients with a diagnosis of stroke and their caregiver, who attended the Day Hospital of the IRCCS Neurolesi Center "Bonino-Pulejo", Messina, Italy, between January 2018 and October 2019, using electronic recovery system data. The final sample consisted of 30 patients and their caregivers. RESULTS: Significant improvements were observed in patients' cognitive and mood scores, reflecting the efficacy of rehabilitation therapies. Additionally, a correlation emerged between patients' reported anxiety levels and caregivers' reported depression levels, highlighting a dynamic interaction between the emotional states of the two groups. CONCLUSION: The study highlights the intricate interplay between caregiver characteristics, patient outcomes, and family dynamics in the context of caregiving. Targeted interventions aimed at improving family resilience and coping mechanisms are crucial to optimizing the well-being of both caregivers and patients.

Eating behaviors and body self-esteem in couple's satisfaction during COVID-19 quarantine.

Background: Many experts agree that the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown restriction have had an impact on relationships and eating habits in couples, but this hypothesis lacks evidence and empirical studies. Aim: The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between satisfaction with the couple's relationship, body self-esteem, and eating behaviors during the Covid-19 lockdown. Method: Three hundred and eighty-one subjects, aged between 18 and 60 years (M = 26.88; SD = 9.22), of whom 89.8% women, participated in the survey. The online assessment included: the Relationship Assessment Scale; the Multidimensional Self Concept Scale and the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire. Results: The results showed that the relationship and the levels of couple's satisfaction are independent of respect to body experience and eating behavior. On the contrary, bodily experience is negatively correlated with diet, weight, body shape, and restriction attempts. However, the eating style of couple showed a change during the quarantine period, both in healthy and at-risk of ED subjects. Conclusion: The psychological impact of Covid-19 and its lockdown has had profound repercussions on the subjective relationship with body and food but have apparently preserved stable and satisfying bonds. The importance of the study confirmed the primary relation between self and body's satisfaction in subjective dimensions of life.

Subthreshold psychiatric symptoms as potential predictors of postpartum depression.

The authors' purpose in the present study is to examine the role of subthreshold mental disorders as predictors of Postpartum Depression (PPD). 110 pregnancy women were evaluated as follow: the General 5-Spectrum Measure at 26 weeks of gestation; the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale at 3/6 months after delivery. Only 4.5% of the sample developed PPD at 3/6 months after delivery. Agoraphobia/panic, depressed mood, social anxiety and eating problems relate positively to PPD at 3/6 months. Early identification of symptoms that could indicate the development of future mood problems in the mother is of crucial importance for mental health and prevention.

The role of body image in obese identity changes post bariatric surgery.

PURPOSE: Body image is a multidimensional construct that encompasses perceptions about body size, emotions, and cognition about physical appearance. Obese identity is related to body image in the lifetime, and according to scientific literature body image dissatisfaction among obese patient persist after bariatric surgery. The objective of this review is to examine the body image changes in patients with obesity pre-and post-bariatric surgery. METHODS: We have carried out a systematic review of literature on PubMed. Initially, 169 publications have been identified, but in total, in compliance with inclusion and exclusion criteria, 15 studies have been analyzed. RESULTS: According to the examined literature, body image does not change after bariatric surgery. These patients will be difficult to adapt for a new body, because there is a persistent obese view of self. Furthermore, ex-obese patients are dissatisfied with the excessive skin after bariatric surgery. Excessive body weight, and negative self-image are replaced with dissatisfaction with excessive skin, and the factors associated with body image stability are still unknown. CONCLUSION: Literature examination raises the issue of body image dissatisfaction, but does not explain why it varies so widely across bariatric patients. Obese identity is related to body image across the lifetime and is an important factor of post-surgical outcomes. Longitudinal studies based on ideal body image pre- and post- bariatric surgery and evidence-based controlled studies on psychotherapeutic treatment for body image dissatisfaction are strongly recommended. Psychotherapy could improve body image quality and wellbeing. LEVEL I: Evidence obtained from: systematic reviews of experimental studies.

BMI at early puerperium: Body image, eating attitudes and mood states.

The present study was aimed to verify if body weight could influence self-perception, in terms of body image, mood states, dissatisfaction with physical appearance and risk of eating disorders. In particular, we evaluated the differences between women of normal weight vs. overweight and obese during the delicate phase of puerperium to verify if there were different emotional structures, linked to BMI. Thirty-two women, 16 normal-weight and 16 overweight or obese, belonging to the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the University Hospital, were individually interviewed. The Body Uneasiness Test (BUT), the Eating Disorder Inventory (EDI) and the Profile of Mood States (POMS) were used for the evaluation. Findings showed that the BMI in puerperium is significantly correlated to mood states and body perception. Furthermore, significant differences emerged in eating attitudes and behaviours, in specific aspects related to the weight gain phobia and the body shape perception, symptoms classically associated with the risk of developing an eating disorder.

Surfing Alone: From Internet Addiction to the Era of Smartphone Dependence.

Technological addiction refers to behavior characterized by excessive and prolonged use of technological devices; reactions of anger, frustration, or panic when unable to use them; and unsuccessful attempts to reduce the time spent on them [...].

Virtual reality rehabilitation in patients affected by multiple sclerosis: Impact on quality of life and sexual functions.

BACKGROUND: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can present several neurological symptoms with a progression that often leads to loss of cognitive and physical abilities. Sexual dysfunctions are frequent, although underestimated, MS symptoms significantly affecting the quality of life of these patients. The primary objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of VR rehabilitation in enhancing the quality of life in individuals with MS. The secondary objective aimed to investigate whether the improvement in quality of life would also lead to enhanced sexual satisfaction and sexual function. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients diagnosed with relapsing-remitting and secondary progressive MS and attending from November 2018 to March 2020 the Rehabilitation Laboratory of IRCCS Neurolesi "Bonino Pulejo" in Messina, Italy were enrolled in this study. All patients were randomized into either the control group (CG: 35 patients) that received traditional cognitive rehabilitation (CR) or the experimental group (EG: 35) undergoing VR. RESULTS: The EG showed substantial improvements in various aspects of Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life (MSQOL) between T0 and T1. Sexual function significantly improved, along with sexual satisfaction. Conversely, the CG achieved significant changes only in overall quality of life. Pearson's correlations highlighted the positive associations between sexual function and satisfaction, as well as with physical and mental well-being, underscoring the importance of improving sexual function as a marker of overall health. DISCUSSION: This study is meant as exploratory as it addresses a fundamental yet overlooked aspect of rehabilitation, i.e., sexual function and sexual satisfaction, which could potentially be enhanced through rehabilitation in a VR environment. Registration DOI number: DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/NB4MJ.

Motivations Driving Career Choices: Insights From a Study Among Nursing Students.

Introduction: Globally, the nursing workforce is crucial to the functioning of healthcare systems. The alarming shortage of nursing staff necessitates careful consideration of the challenging aspects related to this issue to develop successful strategies for attracting and retaining nurses. Objectives: This study aims to explore the motivational factors influencing the decision of students to choose a nursing career and the associated factors. Methods: In this cross-sectional research, a questionnaire was administered to 308 students studying nursing at the Higher Institute of Nursing Professions and Health Techniques. Results: The results of this study revealed several factors influencing the decision of nursing students to choose this profession. The desire to contribute to society and have a positive impact on individuals' lives was identified as the primary motivating factor. Economic considerations also played a significant role. Additionally, it was found that the educational level of parents is a factor influencing students' decisions. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of various factors in the decision-making process of nursing students. By considering these results, policymakers and healthcare professionals can create an environment conducive to attracting and retaining future nurses.

The Mediating Role of Procrastination in the Relationship between Fear of Missing Out and Internet Addiction in University Students.

This study aims to examine the potential mediating role of procrastination in the relationship between fear of missing out and internet addiction. Employing a cross-sectional research design, this study utilized a paper-pencil form to collect data from 315 students (65.4% undergraduate and 66.3% females) between 18 and 32 (Mage = 22.43; SD = 3.81) studying at a state university in Türkiye. Data were collected through the convenience sampling method. The study was designed as a survey model. This design was tested via mediation analysis. The participants completed self-report assessments using the Fear of Missing Out Scale (FoMOs), General Procrastination Scale (GPS-9), and Young Internet Addiction Scale (short form). The findings showed that FoMO had a significant positive direct effect on both procrastination (R2 = 0.13) and internet addiction (R2 = 0.33). Procrastination also had a significant positive direct effect on internet addiction (R2 = 0.34). Additionally, procrastination mediated the relationship between the fear of missing out and internet addiction (ß = 0.156, p < 0.001). These findings not only extend the scope of existing research but also hold practical implications for the development of sustainable interventions. It is believed that the findings will contribute to the consideration of procrastination when preparing psychoeducation or group guidance programs for internet addiction. These interventions can effectively address the process through which fear of missing out leads to internet addiction by considering the significant role of procrastination in students. Findings typically suggest that procrastination behavior is a key factor in explaining the association between FoMO and internet addiction.

Wanna Bet? Investigating the Factors Related to Adolescent and Young Adult Gambling.

For many adolescents and young adults, gambling can represent an attractive and exciting form of entertainment, a way to take risks and explore new experiences. However, gambling also poses a significant risk for this age group. Research suggests that adolescents and young adults are particularly vulnerable to the negative consequences of gambling, including addiction, financial difficulties, and mental health issues. This paper aims to critically examine data on adolescent and young adult gambling, focusing on the risk factors associated with gambling behavior. A total of 326 subjects (Mage = 19.01; SD =2.72), of whom 65.5% were female, completed a protocol containing a demographic sheet, the Lie/Bet Questionnaire, the Seven Domains Addiction Scale (7DAS), a subscale of the Addictive Behavior Questionnaire and the Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations (CISS). Specifically, we explored the impact of sociodemographic, environmental, psychological, and cognitive factors on adolescent and young adult gambling behavior. Clinical implications and future directions are discussed.

Meaning in Life and Loneliness as Mediators between COVID-19 Anxiety and Life Satisfaction in the Post-Pandemic among the General Population in Turkey: A Serial Mediation Model.

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted global society, leading to negative well-being and mental health outcomes. However, little is known about how COVID-19-related anxiety affects life satisfaction through psychological factors. This study examined the mediating roles of meaning in life and loneliness in the relationship between COVID-19 anxiety and life satisfaction in 333 Turkish general population (59.2% females; Mage = 33.9 ± 7.8). Participants completed measures of COVID-19 anxiety, life satisfaction, meaning in life, and loneliness. The results showed that COVID-19 anxiety predicted meaning in life, loneliness, and life satisfaction. Meaning in life predicted loneliness and life satisfaction, while loneliness predicted life satisfaction. Serial mediation analysis revealed that COVID-19 anxiety predicts life satisfaction through meaning in life and loneliness, even after controlling for age and gender. These findings contribute to our understanding of the underlying mechanisms between COVID-19 anxiety and life satisfaction, with implications for future research and practice.

Anxiety and Coping Strategies among Italian-Speaking Physicians: A Comparative Analysis of the Contractually Obligated and Voluntary Care of COVID-19 Patients.

This study aims to explore the differences in the psychological impact of COVID-19 on physicians, specifically those who volunteered or were contractually obligated to provide care for COVID-19 patients. While previous research has predominantly focused on the physical health consequences and risk of exposure for healthcare workers, limited attention has been given to their work conditions. This sample comprised 300 physicians, with 68.0% of them men (mean age = 54.67 years; SD = 12.44; range: 23-73). Participants completed measurements including the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Coping Inventory in Stressful Situations (CISS), and Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (C.A.S.). Pearson's correlations were conducted to examine the relationships between the variables of interest. This study employed multivariate models to test the differences between work conditions: (a) involvement in COVID-19 patient care, (b) volunteering for COVID-19 patient management, (c) contractual obligation to care for COVID-19 patients, and (d) COVID-19 contraction in the workplace. The results of the multivariate analysis revealed that direct exposure to COVID-19 patients and contractual obligation to care for them significantly predicted state anxiety and dysfunctional coping strategies [Wilks' Lambda = 0.917 F = 3.254 p < 0.001]. In contrast, volunteering or being affected by COVID-19 did not emerge as significant predictors for anxiety or dysfunctional coping strategies. The findings emphasize the importance of addressing the psychological well-being of physicians involved in COVID-19 care and highlight the need for targeted interventions to support their mental and occupational health.

Nurse burnout before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic comparative review.

Introduction: This review aimed to compare available evidence examining burnout using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) in nurses before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The specific objective was to compare nurse burnout scores in terms of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal accomplishment. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted for studies on nurses' burnout using the MBI published between 1994 and 2022. In total, 19 studies conducted prior to the pandemic and 16 studies conducted during the pandemic were included and compared using the criteria from the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tool. Results: Surprisingly, the results indicated that nurses' burnout scores did not differ significantly before (N = 59,111) and during (N = 18,629) the pandemic. The difference observed was qualitative rather than quantitative. Discussion: The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated an already critical situation, and while COVID-19 may serve as an additional triggering factor for staff mental illness, it cannot solely explain the observed burnout levels. These findings underscore the need for long-term clinical and preventive psychological interventions, suggesting that psychological resources should not be limited to emergencies but extended to address the ongoing challenges faced by nurses. Systematic review registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=399628, identifier: CRD42023399628.

Sexual Desire and Body Image. Gender Differences and Correlations before and during COVID-19 Lockdown.

Recent literature has extensively examined sexual behavior during lockdown due to COVID-19. However, there are no recent studies that have considered the relationship between body image quality, sexual arousability, and sexual anxiety. The present study has two main objectives: (1) to examine gender differences in bodily and sexual experience; and (2) the comparison of bodily and sexual experience, before and during the COVID-19 lockdown. A total of 301 adult subjects (161 women and 140 men) aged between 16 and 73 years (Mean = 37.4; S.D. = 10.3) participated in the study. Data on biographical information were collected via an online panel. The Body Uneasiness Test (BUT) and the Sexual Arousability Inventory (SAI) were used for the assessment. Univariate ANOVA showed worse scores for women, compared with men, in terms of body image avoidance, depersonalization, overall severity of body image quality, sexual arousability, and sexual anxiety dimensions. When compared against time, only women showed significant correlations between the function of sexual arousal and all parameters concerning body image alteration. Interestingly, these correlations were weak and sporadic before lockdown, but strong and numerous during lockdown. This finding suggests that the impact of COVID-19 restrictions affected the female population more, with a profound repercussion on self-image and sexual and mental well-being.

Sex Differences in Emotions and Eating Behaviors among People Affected by Obesity.

Relatively little research has examined sex differences among people affected by obesity. The aim of this study is to assess the relationship between negative emotions and eating behaviors, taking into account the role of biological sex. The final sample consists of 200 candidates for bariatric surgery, 62 males (31%) and 138 females (69%), aged from 18 to 60 years (M = 40.71; SD = 11.30). Participants were screened with the Binge Scale Questionnaire (BSQ) and individually evaluated with the Eating Disorder Inventory (EDI) and the Profile of Mood States (POMS). Correlations were calculated by splitting the sample by sex. Analyses of the relationship between negative emotions and eating behavior showed a large number of correlations in the sample of women and few correlations in men. The differences between women and men with obesity suggest the need for a different theoretical construct that explains the differentiated mechanisms of functioning and lays the foundations for specific therapeutic paths.

Psychological Impact of Pro-Anorexia and Pro-Eating Disorder Websites on Adolescent Females: A Systematic Review.

(1) Background: Teenagers (in particular, females) suffering from eating disorders report being not satisfied with their physical aspect and they often perceive their body image in a wrong way; they report an excessive use of websites, defined as PRO-ANA and PRO-MIA, that promote an ideal of thinness, providing advice and suggestions about how to obtain super slim bodies. (2) Aim: The aim of this review is to explore the psychological impact of pro-ana and pro-mia websites on female teenagers. (3) Methods: We have carried out a systematic review of the literature on PubMed. The search terms that have been used are: "Pro" AND "Ana" OR "Blogging" AND "Mia". Initially, 161 publications were identified, but in total, in compliance with inclusion and exclusion criteria, 12 studies have been analyzed. (4) Results: The recent scientific literature has identified a growing number of Pro Ana and Pro Mia blogs which play an important role in the etiology of anorexia and bulimia, above all in female teenagers. The feelings of discomfort and dissatisfaction with their physical aspect, therefore, reduce their self-esteem. (5) Conclusion: These websites encourage anorexic and bulimic behaviors, in particular in female teenagers. Attention to healthy eating guidelines and policies during adolescence, focused on correcting eating behavioral aspects, is very important to prevent severe forms of psychopathology with more vulnerability in the perception of body image, social desirability, and negative emotional feedback.

Negative Emotions in Skin Disorders: A Systematic Review.

The main purpose of this study is to describe how negative emotions were investigated in the sphere of dermatological diseases, in order (1) to summarize literature trends about skin disorders and emotions, (2) to highlight any imbalances between the most studied and neglected emotions, (3) and to offer directions for future research. A computerized literature search provided 41 relevant and potentially eligible studies. Results showed that the study of emotions in skin disease is limited to Sadness/depression and Fear/anxiety. The emotions of Anger and Disgust have been poorly explored in empirical studies, despite they could be theoretically considered a vulnerability factor for the development of skin disorders and the dermatological extreme consequences, as negative emotionality toward self and the pathological skin condition. The bibliometric qualitative analysis with VOSViewer software revealed that the majority of the studies have been focused on the relationships between vitiligo and Sadness/depression, dermatitis and Fear/anxiety, psoriasis, and Anger, suggesting the need of future research exploring Disgust and, in general, a wider emotional spectrum.

El objetivo principal de este estudio fue describir cómo se han investigado las emociones negativas en el ámbito de las enfermedades dermatológicas, con el fin de (1) resumir las tendencias de la literatura sobre las enfermedades de la piel y las emociones, (2) para resaltar las diferencias entre las emociones más estudiados y las más descuidadas y (3) ofrecer direcciones para futuras investigaciones. Una búsqueda bibliográfica computarizada proporcionó 41 estudios relevantes y potencialmente elegibles. Los resultados mostraron que el estudio de las emociones en la enfermedad de la piel se limita a Tristeza/depresión y Miedo/ansiedad. Las emociones de la ira y el asco han sido poco exploradas en estudios empíricos, a pesar de que teóricamente podrían considerarse un factor de vulnerabilidad para el desarrollo de enfermedades de la piel y las consecuencias dermatológicas extremas, como la emocionalidad negativa hacia uno mismo y la condición patológica de la piel. El análisis cualitativo bibliométrico con el software VOSViewer reveló que la mayoría de los estudios se han centrado en las relaciones entre vitiligo y Tristeza/depresión, dermatitis y Miedo/ansiedad, psoriasis e Ira, lo que sugiere la necesidad de futuras investigaciones que exploren asco y, en general, un espectro emocional más amplio.

Psychological pain and risk of suicide in adolescence.

Psychological pain or psychache is intolerable and unacceptable mental pain. This construct plays a key role in the risk of suicide in adolescence. This is a frequent condition in adolescents with depression; a variety of studies propose a bidirectional relationship between these two circumstances. Adolescents with psychological pain are exposed to the risk of suicidal ideation, and behavior. This review aimed to explore psychological pain in adolescents, and the correlation to the risk of suicide. We have conducted, following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review for the literature on PubMed. Search terms were "Suicide risk in adolescents" AND "Mental Pain in adolescence" OR "Psychological Pain in adolescence". An initial search identified publications 1189. A total of 15 studies met the predefined inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Mental pain is a stronger factor of vulnerability of suicidal ideation and behavior. Intense negative emotions, such as guilt, shame, hopelessness, may become a psychological pain in adolescence, and many studies showed a relation between psychological pain and capability for suicide.

When Fathers Begin to Falter: A Comprehensive Review on Paternal Perinatal Depression.

The transition to parenthood is considered to be a major life transition that can increase the vulnerability to parental depressive disorders, including paternal perinatal depression (PPND). Although it is known that many fathers experience anxiety and depression during the perinatal period, PPND is a recent diagnostic entity and there are not enough published studies on it. Accordingly, its prevalence and epidemiology are still not well defined, although the majority of studies agree that PPND is less frequent than maternal perinatal depression and postpartum depression. Nevertheless, PPND is different from maternal perinatal mental health disorders, usually, fathers have less severe symptoms, and mood alterations are often in comorbidity with other affective disorders. Despite the absence of DSM-5 diagnostic criteria and the fluctuation of prevalence rates, clinical symptoms have been defined. The main symptoms are mood alterations and anxiety, followed by behavioral disturbances and concerns about the progress of pregnancy and the child's health. Moreover, PPND negatively impacts on family functioning, on couples' relationships, and on family members' well-being. The aim of this paper is to present an overview of the current understandings on PPND and the potential screening, prevention, and treatment options.

Hyperarousal Scale: Italian Cultural Validation, Age and Gender Differences in a Nonclinical Population.

OBJECTIVES: Studies on hyperarousal have increasingly developed in the last decade. Nevertheless, there are still very few valid measures of hyperarousal. The aim of the study is to verify the psychometric properties of the Italian version of the Hyperarousal Scale (H-Scale), in order to provide researchers with a valid measure for the target population. METHOD: The questionnaire was translated, back-translated, pre-tested, and cross-culturally adapted. Subsequently, the Italian version of the H-Scale, the Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI-3) and the Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36) were administered to 982 adults, 456 males and 526 females, aged from 18 to 80 years (M = 35.61 ± 12.47). RESULTS: Cronbach's alpha of the translated H-Scale was 0.81. Furthermore, positive correlations with the ASI-3 and negative correlations with the SF-36 emerged. The H-Scale is also sensitive to catch age and gender differences. CONCLUSIONS: The Italian version of the H-Scale demonstrated good reliability and validity. Its sufficient discriminative and evaluative psychometric properties provide the theoretical evidence for further application in evidence-based research studies.