scholarly journals A systematic review on the effect of Ramadan on mental health: minor effects and no harm in general, but increased risk of relapse in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder

2018 ◽  
Vol 1 (1) ◽  
pp. 7-16 ◽  
Author(s):  
Reinhard Heun
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Systematic Review ◽  
Bipolar Disorder ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Study Data ◽  
Negative Effects ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Scientific Potential ◽  
Physical Disorders ◽  
Mental Well Being

AbstractObjectivesGlobally, Moslems are the second largest religious group. During the month of Ramadan from dawn to sundown, healthy Moslems are required to refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, sexual activity and harmful behaviour towards others and themselves. Thus Ramadan may change individual physical states and social interactions. Both might affect mental health within society. Consequently, this systematic review looks at the various effects of Ramadan on mental health.MethodsA literature search on Ramadan and mental health initially identified 294 papers. We finally selected all 22 relevant papers covering Ramadan and mental health from which study data were extracted.ResultsRelevant papers focussed on the general population and healthy volunteers, on subjects practising sports, on subjects with severe physical disorders, on subjects at risk of eating disorders and on subjects with mental health disorders. The effects of Ramadan on mental well-being were mixed. Positive and negative effects were usually minor, except in subjects with schizophrenia and metabolic syndrome, and in subjects with bipolar disorder who suffered a substantial increase of relapses.ConclusionRamadan fasting is safe in most conditions and disorders, but caution is required in subjects with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. The research on mental health and Ramadan would profit from larger studies with more representative samples to help understand the intra-individual and social factors that affect the mental health and well-being in patients and in society. The scientific potential of such studies may have been overlooked in the psychiatric community.

scholarly journals The Perinatal Mental Health of Indigenous Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

2019 ◽  
pp. 070674371987702 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sawayra Owais ◽  
Mateusz Faltyn ◽  
Ashley V. D. Johnson ◽  
Chelsea Gabel ◽  
Bernice Downey ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Systematic Review ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Health Problems ◽  
Indigenous Women ◽  
Perinatal Mental Health ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Increased Risk

Objective: Although Indigenous women are exposed to high rates of risk factors for perinatal mental health problems, the magnitude of their risk is not known. This lack of data impedes the development of appropriate screening and treatment protocols, as well as the proper allocation of resources for Indigenous women. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare rates of perinatal mental health problems among Indigenous and non-Indigenous women. Methods: We searched Medline, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Web of Science from their inceptions until February 2019. Studies were included if they assessed mental health in Indigenous women during pregnancy and/or up to 12 months postpartum. Results: Twenty-six articles met study inclusion criteria and 21 were eligible for meta-analysis. Indigenous identity was associated with higher odds of mental health problems (odds ratio [ OR] 1.62; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.25 to 2.11). Odds were higher still when analyses were restricted to problems of greater severity ( OR 1.95; 95% CI, 1.21 to 3.16) and young Indigenous women ( OR 1.86; 95% CI, 1.51 to 2.28). Conclusion: Indigenous women are at increased risk of mental health problems during the perinatal period, particularly depression, anxiety, and substance misuse. However, resiliency among Indigenous women, cultural teachings, and methodological issues may be affecting estimates. Future research should utilize more representative samples, adapt and validate diagnostic and symptom measures for Indigenous groups, and engage Indigenous actors, leaders, and related allies to help improve the accuracy of estimates, as well as the well-being of Indigenous mothers, their families, and future generations. Trial Registration: PROSPERO-CRD42018108638.

scholarly journals Measuring mental wellness among adolescents living with a physical chronic condition: a systematic review of the mental health and mental well-being instruments

2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Zaida Orth ◽  
Brian van Wyk
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Systematic Review ◽  
Chronic Condition ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Middle Income ◽  
Related Quality ◽  
Health Related ◽  
Mental Wellness ◽  
Mental Well Being ◽  
Health And Well Being

Abstract Background Globally, promoting mental health and well-being among adolescents has become a public health priority, especially for adolescents living with a physical chronic condition (CC), as research suggests they may be more at risk of developing mental health co-morbidities. Valid and reliable instruments are needed to measure and better understand mental health and mental well-being among adolescents living with a CC. To this end, we reviewed studies reporting on mental health and well-being instruments used in adolescent populations living with a chronic physical condition/disease globally. Methods We used a systematic review method guided by PRISMA to identify assess mental health and mental well-being instruments used in adolescents living with a CC. In this instance, mental health instruments were defined as those representing negative domains of mental health (i.e. depression and anxiety) while mental well-being instruments included positive aspects of mental health (i.e. self-concept and resilience). Results We identified 22 articles, which included 31 instruments that were used to measure either mental health (n = 8) or mental well-being (n = 15) or both (n = 8) in adolescents living with a CC. Of these, thirteen studies used a Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) scale to measure mental health and/or mental well-being. The KIDSCREEN questionnaires and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire were identified as being frequently used across the 22 studies. Additionally, 7 out of the 31 instruments were disease specific, with 3 focusing on adolescents with diabetes. All the instruments were developed in high income countries and adapted for use in lower- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes (n = 7) and HIV (n = 4) were researched in 11 out of 22 studies. Only eight studies were conducted in LMIC, of which four were in Africa. Conclusions HRQoL instruments are useful in measuring mental health and well-being in adolescents living with a CC. However, relatively few valid measures of mental health and mental well-being for adolescents living with a CC exist, which accentuates the paucity of research on mental health and mental well-being of adolescents who are living with a CC. Specific measures need to be developed in and for LMICs where cultural contexts affect mental well-being in unique ways. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42020186707.

Vegetarianism and veganism compared with mental health and cognitive outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Isabel Iguacel ◽  
Inge Huybrechts ◽  
Luis A Moreno ◽  
Nathalie Michels
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Systematic Review ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Data Extraction ◽  
Meta Analysis ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Nutritional Deficiencies ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Subgroup Analyses ◽  
Vegetarian Diets

Abstract Context Vegetarian and vegan diets are increasing in popularity. Although they provide beneficial health effects, they may also lead to nutritional deficiencies. Cognitive impairment and mental health disorders have a high economic burden. Objective A meta-analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between vegan or vegetarian diets and cognitive and mental health. Data Sources PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Proquest databases were examined from inception to July 2018. Study Selection Original observational or interventional human studies of vegan/vegetarian diets were selected independently by 2 authors. Data Extraction Raw means and standard deviations were used as continuous outcomes, while numbers of events were used as categorical outcomes. Results Of 1249 publications identified, 13 were included, with 17 809 individuals in total. No significant association was found between diet and the continuous depression score, stress, well-being, or cognitive impairment. Vegans/vegetarians were at increased risk for depression (odds ratio = 2.142; 95%CI, 1.105–4.148) and had lower anxiety scores (mean difference = −0.847; 95%CI, −1.677 to −0.018). Heterogeneity was large, and thus subgroup analyses showed numerous differences. Conclusions Vegan or vegetarian diets were related to a higher risk of depression and lower anxiety scores, but no differences for other outcomes were found. Subgroup analyses of anxiety showed a higher risk of anxiety, mainly in participants under 26 years of age and in studies with a higher quality. More studies with better overall quality are needed to make clear positive or negative associations. Systematic Review Registration PROSPERO registration no. CRD42018097204

scholarly journals Psychological Support Interventions for Healthcare Providers and Informal Caregivers during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review of the Literature

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (13) ◽  
pp. 6939
Author(s):  
Vanessa Bertuzzi ◽  
Michelle Semonella ◽  
Denise Bruno ◽  
Chiara Manna ◽  
Julian Edbrook-Childs ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Systematic Review ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Assessment Tool ◽  
Informal Caregivers ◽  
Healthcare Providers ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Psychological Support ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Mental Health Treatments

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare providers and informal caregivers were at an increased risk of adverse mental health effects. This systematic review provides a summary of the available evidence on the content and efficacy of the psychological support interventions in increasing mental health among healthcare providers and informal caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: PubMed, Google Scholar, PsychINFO, and Scopus databases were systematically searched for relevant articles, and the methodological quality of selected articles was assessed using the Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies. Results: A search of electronic databases identified five reports based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. All psychological support interventions for caregivers were delivered digitally. Despite the large heterogeneity of the selected studies, the findings support the efficacy of mental health interventions in reducing distress and burnout, while promoting self-efficacy and well-being in both healthcare providers and informal caregivers. Conclusion: Since mental health problems are expected to increase during, and as a result of, the COVID-19 pandemic, and digital tools might offer a range of mental health treatments to meet the unique and immediate needs of people, further research is needed to test the cost-effectiveness of digital psychological interventions.

scholarly journals The Effects of Physical Activity on Mental Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic: a Systematic Review

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Priscila Marconcin ◽  
André O. Werneck ◽  
Miguel Peralta ◽  
Andreas Ihle ◽  
Élvio Gouveia ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Physical Activity ◽  
Systematic Review ◽  
Depressive Symptoms ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Activity Level ◽  
Negative Effects ◽  
Prospective Longitudinal Study ◽  
Prospective Longitudinal

Abstract Introduction: Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic affected countries worldwide and has changed peoples’ lives. A reduction in physical activity and an increase in mental health problems were observed. Thus, this systematic review aims to examine the association between physical activity and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic.Methods: In January 2021, a search was applied to PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Eligibility criteria included cross-sectional, prospective, longitudinal study design and studies published in English; outcomes included physical activity and mental health (e.g., depressive symptoms, anxiety, positive and negative effects, well-being). Results: Nineteen studies were included in this review. Overall, the studies suggested that higher physical activity is associated with higher well-being, quality of life as well as lower depressive symptoms, anxiety, and stress, independently of age. There was no consensus for the optimal physical activity level for mitigating negative mental symptoms, neither for the frequency nor for the type of physical activity. Women were more vulnerable to mental health changes and men were more susceptive to physical activity changes. Conclusion: Physical activity seems to be a good and effective choice to mitigate the negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health. Public health policies should alert for alternatives to increment physical activity during the stay-at-home orders in many countries.

Management-led interventions for workplace stress and mental health of academic staff in higher education: a systematic review

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ogechi Ohadomere ◽  
Ikedinachi K. Ogamba
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Higher Education ◽  
Systematic Review ◽  
Higher Education Institutions ◽  
Academic Staff ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Intervention Strategies ◽  
Workplace Stress ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Mental Well Being

Purpose This paper aims to focus on management-led intervention strategies aimed at achieving stable mental well-being among academic staff in higher education institutions (HEIs) by reviewing and synthesising existing literature on varying intervention strategies to managing workplace stress and improving mental health. Design/methodology/approach Twenty-two peer-reviewed articles were identified through databases (PsycARTICLES, PsycINFO, Business source complete, Academic search complete) and the application of the PRISMA guideline. A quality check was carried out on the selected articles, and a data extraction table was developed to aid the discussion. Findings Although the awareness of mental health is a global issue, there was minimal research evidence in managing stress and mental health among academic staff in HEIs through increased university management involvement. Most HEIs were more focused on corporatisation and student satisfaction while unconsciously neglecting its impact on the well-being of academic staff even though universities’ management portray staff welfare as priority. Research limitations/implications There is limited information measuring the outcome of various management-led mental well-being strategies in HEIs. Further research applying more robust study design rather beyond self-reported questionnaires and similar study designs is needed in this area. Practical implications Establishing routine mental health assessment, effective communication, continuous promotion of existing and available support is imminent to improve the mental well-being of academic staff by HEIs management. Originality/value This is the first systematic review that describes and synthesises the various mental health triggers, including workplace stressors, that affect academic staff in higher education institutions (HEIs) and summarises various possible management intervention strategies.

scholarly journals Adolescent mental wellness: a systematic review protocol of instruments measuring general mental health and well-being

BMJ Open ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (8) ◽  
pp. e037237
Author(s):  
Zaida Orth ◽  
Brian van Wyk
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Systematic Review ◽  
Psychometric Properties ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Health Problems ◽  
Mental Illnesses ◽  
Third Party ◽  
Social Significance ◽  
Mental Well Being

IntroductionThe promotion of mental health well-being among global adolescent populations is of great public health and social significance. This is particularly true for adolescents living with chronic illnesses as studies have shown that these populations are at higher risk for developing mental health problems. There is vast recognition of the need for age and culturally appropriate interventions to promote mental well-being and prevent mental health problems. In stark contrast, there is a dearth of relevant measures of mental well-being for adolescents. Our proposed systematic review aims to identify measures of mental well-being and to assess content, psychometric properties and relevance to adolescent populations.Methods and analysisThe systematic review methodology will be guided by the seven steps proposed by Eggar, Davey and Smith. Documents will be sourced from electronic databases (Academic Search Complete, Educational Resource Information Center, Medical Literature Analysis Retrieval System Online, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature plus, PsyArticles, SocIndex and Sabinet). All documents will be exported to Mendeley and two reviewers will independently screen the titles, abstracts and full texts for inclusion. Any discrepancies will be resolved by a third party. We will include studies published in all languages from 2000 to 2020, that use an instrument(s) that measure mental well-being among adolescent populations. Studies reporting on clinically significant mental illnesses or disorders will be excluded. A descriptive meta-synthesis approach will be used to identify and describe the mental health instruments used among adolescent populations, and to report on the psychometric properties.Ethics and disseminationEthical approval is not required. The results of this review will be disseminated through a peer-reviewed publication as well as conference presentations.

scholarly journals Impact of Green Space Exposure on Children’s and Adolescents’ Mental Health: A Systematic Review

2018 ◽  
Vol 15 (12) ◽  
pp. 2668 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gert-Jan Vanaken ◽  
Marina Danckaerts
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Systematic Review ◽  
Young Adults ◽  
Green Space ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Green Spaces ◽  
Adolescents And Young Adults ◽  
Developmental Problems ◽  
Mental Well Being

In recent years, the interest in the relationship between exposure to green spaces and children’s and adolescents’ mental health has risen. This systematic review aims to provide an overview of observational studies assessing the association between empirical green space exposure with standardized outcome measures of mental health problems, mental well-being and developmental problems in children, adolescents and young adults. The PRISMA statement guidelines for reporting systematic reviews were followed. A PubMed and Scopus search resulted in the inclusion of 21 studies. The evidence consistently suggests a beneficial association between green space exposure and children’s emotional and behavioral difficulties, particularly with hyperactivity and inattention problems. Limited evidence suggests a beneficial association with mental well-being in children and depressive symptoms in adolescents and young adults. These beneficial associations are resistant to adjustment for demographic and socio-economic confounders, which thus may represent independent links. Mediating factors and the variability of this association between different age groups are discussed. From a precautionary principle, evidence up to now demands the attention of policy makers, urban planners and mental healthcare workers in order to protect children’s and adolescents’ mental health in light of rapid global urbanization by providing sufficient exposure to green spaces.

scholarly journals Measuring Mental Wellness Among Adolescents Living With A Physical Chronic Condition: A Systematic Review of the Mental Health and Mental Wellbeing Instruments

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zaida Orth ◽  
Brian van Wyk
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Systematic Review ◽  
Chronic Condition ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Mental Wellbeing ◽  
Middle Income ◽  
Health And Wellbeing ◽  
Related Quality ◽  
Mental Wellness ◽  
Mental Well Being

Abstract Background: Globally, promoting mental health and wellbeing among adolescents has become a public health priority, especially for adolescents living with a chronic condition (CC) as research suggests they may be more at risk of developing mental health co-morbidities. Valid and reliable instruments are needed to measure and better understand mental health and mental wellbeing among adolescents living with a CC. To this end, we reviewed studies reporting on mental health and well-being instruments used in adolescent populations living with a chronic physical condition/disease globally.Methods: We used a systematic review method guided by PRISMA to identify assess mental health and mental wellbeing instruments used in adolescents living with a CC. In this instance, mental health instruments were defined as those representing negative domains of mental health (i.e. depression and anxiety) while mental wellbeing instruments included positive aspects of mental health (i.e. self-concept and resilience). Results: We identified 22 articles, which include 31 instruments that were used to measure either mental health (n= 8) or mental wellbeing (n= 15) or both (n=8) in adolescents living with a CC. Of these, thirteen studies used a Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) scale to measure mental health and/or mental well-being; and three studies used. The KIDSCREEN questionnaires and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire were identified as being frequently used across the 22 studies. Additionally, 7 out of the 31 instruments were disease specific, with 3 focusing on adolescents with diabetes. All the instruments were developed in high income countries and adapted for use in lower- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes (n=7) and HIV (n=4) were researched in 11 out of 22 studies. Only eight studies were conducted in LMIC, of which four were in Africa. Conclusions: The findings suggest that HRQoL instruments seem to be useful in measuring mental health - and wellbeing in adolescents living with a CC. Relatively few valid measures of mental health and mental wellbeing for adolescents living with a CC exist generally, which confirms the paucity of research on mental health and mental well-being of adolescents who are living with a CC. There is a need for measures to be developed in LMIC where cultural contexts differ greatly and affects well-being in unique ways.Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42020186707

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