Prevalence and correlates of social networking addiction and its association with adult ADHD and stress among students of a medical college

Introduction: Repeated use of social network is said to cause addiction. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is disorder found in childhood. Studies have shown that such children continue to have the symptoms of ADHD as adults. The aim of this study was to find the prevalence of social networking addiction and Internet addiction and their relationship with ADHD. Also, to assess the relationship between perceived stress and sociodemographic factors with social networking and internet addiction. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 undergraduate and postgraduate students of BMCRI after ethical clearance. Medical students who gave consent were included through stratified random sampling. Those who were taking treatment for psychiatric illness were excluded. Scales like the Young Internet addiction test (IAT); Bergen’s Facebook Reporting Scale, ADHD Self-Reporting Scale, and Wender Utah Brief Rating Scale for ADHD, and Cohen Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) for perceived stress have been used. Results: The mean age was found to be 21.56 ± 3 years. 62.6% were males and 37.33% of were females. The prevalence of Internet addiction was found to be 23.3% (n = 35), with 2% (n = 3) were having severe addiction, 6.6% (n = 10) were having moderate Internet and 14.6% (n = 22) having mild internet addiction according to modified Young’s criteria (2011). The prevalence of social networking addiction as per the Bergen Facebook Addiction Scale (BFAS) score was 4.66% and adult ADHD was 15%. There was a strong positive correlation (0.76) between Internet Addiction and Facebook addiction scores and between BFAS score and IAT score. A moderate positive correlation (0.46 and 0.47) between Internet addiction and Facebook addiction with perceived stress and ADHD and IAT score with PSS score and ASRS score, weak positive correlation with PSS score and ASRS score was observed. Conclusion: A significant proportion of medical students develop Internet addiction and minority develops social network addiction. Furthermore, perceived stress and ADHD scores are positively correlated with internet and social networking addiction.

Estresse percebido entre estudantes de graduação: fatores associados, a influência do modelo ENEM/SiSU e possíveis consequências sobre a saúde / Perceived stress among undergraduate students: associated factors, influence of the ENEM/SiSU model, and its possible consequences on health

RESUMO Objetivo: Medir os níveis de estresse percebido, os fatores associados, em especial o impacto da escolha e satisfação com o curso, bem como as possíveis consequências desse desfecho entre graduandos. Métodos: Estudo transversal conduzido em 2019 com 996 estudantes de graduação de uma universidade pública no Sul do Brasil. A amostragem foi realizada de forma sistemática por conglomerados em único estágio. O desfecho foi avaliado por meio da Escala de Estresse Percebido. As análises de fatores associados e possíveis consequências foram realizadas por meio de regressão linear múltipla e regressão de Poisson, respectivamente. Resultados: O escore médio de estresse percebido foi de 31,1 (DP = 9). Indivíduos do sexo feminino, de orientação sexual não heterossexual, mais pobres, com insegurança alimentar, com medo de violência no bairro, com percepção de difícil acesso a serviço psicológico e com menor suporte social foram os mais estressados. Participantes mais velhos e com algum nível de atividade física foram menos estressados. A insatisfação com o curso atual, e não o fato de ser o curso desejado no ingresso, foi associada ao estresse. Uso não médico de remédio prescrito, ansiedade generalizada, sintomas depressivos e pior qualidade de sono e de vida foram identificados como possíveis consequências do estresse. Conclusões: O modelo ENEM/SiSU parece não exercer efeito no estresse. Além disso, esse desfecho foi mais elevado entre indivíduos mais vulneráveis, tendo contribuído para diversos desfechos negativos em saúde mental. Recomenda-se o fortalecimento de serviços de assistência estudantil para que esses casos sejam identificados e manejados.

ABSTRACT Objective: To measure levels of perceived stress, associated factors, especially the impact of choice and satisfaction with the course, as well as the possible consequences of this outcome among undergraduates. Methods: Cross-sectional study conducted in 2019 with 996 undergraduate students from a public university in southern Brazil. Sampling was carried out systematically by single-stage clusters. The outcome was assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale. Analysis of associated factors and possible consequences were performed using multiple linear regression and Poisson regression, respectively. Results: Mean perceived stress score was 31.1 (SD = 9). Female individuals, with non-heterosexual orientation, poorer, with food insecurity, with fear of violence in the neighborhood, with perception of difficult access to psychological services and with less social support were the most stressed. Older participants with some level of physical activity were less stressed. Dissatisfaction with the current course, rather than the fact that it was the desired course prior admission, was associated with high levels of stress. Non-medical use of prescribed medication, generalized anxiety, depressive symptoms, and poorer quality of sleep and life were identified as possible consequences of stress. Conclusions: The ENEM/SiSU model seems to have no effect on stress. Furthermore, this outcome was higher among more vulnerable individuals, having contributed to several negative outcomes in mental health. It is recommended to strengthen student assistance services so that these cases can be identified and managed.

A study on assessment of sleep pattern and perceived stress among geriatric patients in Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata

Background: In addition to risk of developing different non-communicable diseases, chronic diseases, and disabilities with increases of age, elderly people are more likely to suffer from mental and psychological distress and sleep disturbances which are again very much related to other physical problems of elderly. However, these two issues are often neglected and also were not addressed by research work adequately. Aims and Objectives: In above backdrop, our present study was conducted to determine sleep pattern and perceived stress among elderly population and their relationship with sociodemographic parameters. Materials and Methods: An observational descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Geriatric Outpatient Department (OPD) of Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, from August to October 2022, among 161 geriatric OPD patients. A semi-structured questionnaire was used for eliciting sociodemographic information. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and perceived stress scale were used for assessing sleep quality and perceived stress of participants respectively. Data were analyzed in the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (version 20). Results: About 41.2% participants suffered from poor sleep pattern. About 41.2% of geriatric participants had low level of stress and rest had moderate stress. Age and marital status were significantly associated with both sleep pattern and perceived stress. Socioeconomic status was related to sleep score, whereas perceived stress was associated with education of elderly participants. Conclusion: Poor quality of sleep and stress has an impact on other physical health problems of elderly such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. Hence, awareness generation among general population and provision of adequate management in elderly health clinics regarding these two issues is required.

The chain mediating effect of mindfulness and perceived stress between childhood trauma and psychotic-like experiences among college freshmen / 中华行为医学与脑科学杂志

Objective:To explore the mediating effects of mindfulness and perceived stress between childhood trauma and psychotic-like experiences.Methods:In October 2021, 602 freshmen from a university in Guangdong Province were tested by childhood trauma questionnaire(CTQ), mindful attention awareness scale(MAAS), perceived stress scale(PSS), and community assessment of psychic experiences(CAPE). SPSS 21.0 and Mplus 8.3 were used for data analysis. Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the differences between groups, and Spearman correlation analysis was used to investigate the correlation among childhood trauma, mindfulness, perceived stress and psychotic-like experiences. Bias-corrected nonparametric percentile Bootstrap method was used to examine the mediating roles of mindfulness and perceived stress between childhood trauma and psychotic-like experiences. Results:(1) In the past one month, 59.5% of the freshmen had psychotic-like experiences, and 8.5% of them experienced the distress. (2)Childhood trauma was positively correlated with perceived stress( r=0.29, P<0.01), frequency ( r=0.14, P<0.01)and distress( r=0.17, P<0.01) of psychotic-like experiences, and was negatively correlated with mindfulness( r=-0.28, P<0.01). (2)Mindfulness and perceived stress played individual mediating effects and chain mediating effect between childhood trauma and frequency of psychotic-like experiences, with effect size of 0.08, 0.04, 0.03, accounting for 53.33%, 26.67%, 20.00% of the total indirect effect(effect size=0.15), respectively. Mindfulness and perceived stress played individual mediating effects and chain mediating effect between childhood trauma and distress of psychotic-like experiences, with effect size of 0.07, 0.04, 0.03, accounting for 50.00%, 28.57%, 21.43% of the total indirect effect(effect size=0.14), respectively. Conclusion:Childhood trauma can affect psychotic-like experiences and distress through the indirect effects of mindfulness and perceived stress, or through the chain mediating effect of mindfulness-perceived stress.

Correlation between anxiety and perceived stress among medical personnel in a tertiary specialized cancer hospital / 预防医学

Objective@#To examine the correlation between anxiety and perceived stress among medical personnel in a tertiary specialized cancer hospital, so as to provide the evidence for improving psychological health among medical personnel. @*Methods@#In-service doctors, nurses and technicians were sampled from a tertiary specialized cancer hospital, and their demographics, perceived stress and sources of stress were collected using self-designed questionnaires. Anxiety was evaluated using the Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), and the associations of anxiety with perceived stress and source of stress were examined using a multivariable logistic regression model. @*Results@#A total 800 questionnaires were allocated and 655 valid questionnaires were recovered, with an effective recovery rate of 81.88%. The respondents included 160 men (24.43%) and 495 women (75.57%), and 297 respondents (45.34%) were at ages of 30 to 39 years. There were 14 respondents with no or low level of stress (2.14%), 245 with general level of stress (37.40%), 289 with high level of stress (44.12%), and 107 with extremely high level of stress (16.34%). The prevalence of anxiety was 36.64% among respondents. Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified perceived stress at work (OR=2.205, 95%CI: 1.657-2.675), doctor-patient relationship (OR=2.259, 95%CI: 1.561-3.282) and interpersonal relationship (OR=2.272, 95%CI: 1.387-3.693) as a factor affecting anxiety among medical personnel. @*Conclusion@#The anxiety correlates with stress at work, doctor-patient relationship and interpersonal relationship among medical personnel in a tertiary specialized cancer hospital.

Relation of perceived social support to mental health in prison police： a moderated mediating analysis / 四川精神卫生

BackgroundThe mental health level of the prison police is relatively low， so finding innovative ways to improve the mental health of them is of great significance for the safety of prison supervision and the implementation of peaceful China initiative. ObjectiveTo explore the relationship between perceived social support， perceived stress and psychological resilience with mental health of prison police， and to provide references for improving their mental health. MethodsIn March 2022， 424 policemen working in a male prison in a western province were selected by cluster sampling method， and investigated with the Perceived Social Support Scale （PSSS）， Chinese Perceived Stress Scale （CPSS）， Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale （CD-RISC） and General Health Questionnaire 20 （GHQ-20）， then Process 4.2 was used employed to verify the mediating role of perceived stress as well as the moderating role of psychological resilience in the relationship between perceived social support and mental health. Results①Male subjects scored higher on GHQ-20 than female subjects （t=2.095， P<0.05）. ②CPSS score was negatively correlated with PSSS and GHQ-20 scores （r=-0.670， -0.703， P<0.01）， and GHQ-20 score showed a positive correlation with PSSS and CD-RISC scores （r=0.580， 0.693， P<0.01）. ③Perceived social support positively predict mental health （β=0.154， 95% CI： 0.133~0.175， P<0.01）. ④Perceived stress played a mediating role in the relationship between perceived social support and mental health， and the mediation effect size was 0.087， accounting for 88.78% of the total effect （95% CI： 0.064~0.112， P<0.01）. ⑤Psychological resilience played a moderating role in the second half （perceived stress→mental health） of the mediating path of "perceived social support→perceived stress→mental health"（β=0.074， 95% CI： 0.046~0.102， P<0.01）. ⑥Psychological resilience also regulated the mediation effect of perceived stress on the relationship between perceived social support and mental health ［three regression coefficients tested in turn are significant： a=-0.537 （95% CI： -0.594~-0.480， P<0.01）， b1=-0.162 （95% CI： -0.197~-0.127， P<0.01）， b3=0.074 （95% CI： 0.046~0.102， P<0.01）］. ConclusionPerceived social support of prison police has an impact on their mental health both directly and indirectly through perceived stress. In addition， perceived social support of prison police has a moderated mediation effect on mental health， and it is partially moderated by psychological resilience.［ Funded by General Project of Sichuan Prison Administrative Bureau in 2022］

Regulación emocional en la relación del mindfulness con el estrés percibido en el personal de salud

Introducción: A pesar de que varias investigaciones han demostrado que el mindfulness o atención plena influye en el estrés percibido, se ha evidenciado la carencia de estudios que hayan probado las relaciones entre la regulación emocional, la atención plena y el estrés percibido, específicamente en el personal de la salud que labora en unidades de cuidados intensivos. Objetivo: Probar la relación entre la atención plena y el estrés percibido en el personal de salud de hospitales públicos y privados de Santo Domingo de los Colorados, Ecuador, para identificar si esta relación es mediada por la regulación emocional. Método: Se realizó un estudio cuantitativo de alcance descriptivo correlacional y diseño transversal donde se aplicó un cuestionario conformado por 39 preguntas tomadas de tres escalas psicosomáticas a 382 trabajadores de la salud de unidades de cuidados intensivos de las instituciones antes mencionadas. Se midieron las variables: atención plena, regulación emocional y estrés percibido. Los análisis estadísticos fueron desarrollados a través de Excel y Statistical Package for Social Sciences 21. Resultados: Los análisis estadísticos evidenciaron que la atención plena influyó en el estrés percibido (β=0,428**) y, también, en la regulación emocional (β=0,488**), así mismo la regulación emocional influyó sobre el estrés percibido (β=0,417**). Conclusiones: Se corrobora que la regulación emocional tiene un efecto mediador entre el mindfulness o atención plena y el estrés percibido en los trabajadores de la salud de las unidades de cuidados intensivos. Este personal a menudo desarrolla actividades sin prestar atención plena, sin embargo, tienen control sobre sus actividades laborales y están en la capacidad de regular y ocultar emociones que se les pueda presentar dentro de los contextos laborales de la salud y, de esta manera, disminuir los riesgos de padecer estrés.

Introduction: While a number of research studies have shown that mindfulness influences perceived stress, there is a lack of research that have tested the relationship between emotional regulation, mindfulness and perceived stress, specifically in those health workers who work in intensive care units. Objective: Test relationship between mindfulness and perceived stress in health workers of public and private hospitals in Santo Domingo de los Colorados, Ecuador, in order to identify whether this relationship is mediated by emotional regulation. Method: A quantitative study of descriptive correlational scope and cross-sectional design was carried out, where a questionnaire consisting of 39 questions taken from three psychosomatic scales was applied to 382 health care workers in intensive care units of the aforementioned institutions. Variables used were as follow: mindfulness, emotional regulation and perceived stress. Statistical analyses were structured using two specialized softwares Excel and Statistical Package for Social Sciences 21. Results: Statistical analyses showed that mindfulness influenced perceived stress (β=0.428**), and also emotional regulation (β=0.488**), at the same time, emotional regulation influenced perceived stress (β=0.417**). Conclusions: It was corroborated that emotional regulation played a mediating effect between mindfulness and perceived stress felt by the health care workers who work in intensive care units. Frequently, these personnel develop activities without mindfulness, however, they have control over their work activities and are able to regulate and hide emotions that may arise in their work environment and, in this way, reduce the risks of suffering stress.

Introdução: Apesar de várias investigações mostrarem que mindfulness ou atenção plena influenciam o estresse percebido, faltam estudos que comprovem as relações entre regulação emocional, mindfulness e estresse percebido, especificamente no pessoal de saúde que trabalha em unidades de terapia intensiva. Objetivo: Testar a relação entre mindfulness e estresse percebido em trabalhadores de saúde de hospitais públicos e privados de Santo Domingo de los Colorados, Equador, para identificar se essa relação é mediada pela regulação emocional. Método: Estudo quantitativo, de alcance descritivo correlacional e delineamento transversal, onde foi aplicado um questionário composto por 39 questões extraídas de três escalas psicossomáticas a 382 trabalhadores de saúde de unidades de terapia intensiva das referidas instituições. As variáveis foram medidas: atenção plena, regulação emocional e estresse percebido. As análises estatísticas foram realizadas usando o Excel e o Statistical Package for Social Sciences 21. Resultados: As análises estatísticas mostraram que a atenção plena influenciou o estresse percebido (β=0,428**) e também a regulação emocional (β=0,488**), da mesma forma que a regulação emocional influenciou a percepção tensão (β=0,417**). Conclusões: Corrobora-se que a regulação emocional tem efeito mediador entre mindfulness ou atenção plena e estresse percebido em trabalhadores de saúde em unidades de terapia intensiva. Esses profissionais muitas vezes realizam atividades sem total atenção, porém, possuem controle sobre suas atividades laborais e são capazes de regular e ocultar emoções que possam surgir nos contextos de trabalho em saúde e, assim, reduzir os riscos de estresse.

The Effect of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Counseling on Blood Glucose and Perceived Stress in Women with Gestational Diabetes / O efeito do aconselhamento para redução do estresse baseado na atenção plena sobre a glicose no sangue e o estresse percebido em mulheres com diabetes gestacional

Abstract Objective Gestational diabetes can cause maternal and neonatal morbidity. Psychological factors, especially stress, play a meaningful role in diabetes management. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction counseling on blood sugar and perceived stress in women with gestational diabetes. Methods The present quasi-experimental interventional study was performed on 78 women with gestational diabetes. In the intervention group, a Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction counseling program was conducted by the researcher in 8 sessions of 90 minutes twice a week. The Cohen stress questionnaire was filled in both groups. Also, fasting blood sugar and 2-hour blood sugar levels were measured in both groups. Statistical analysis was performed using the independent T-Test, the paired T-Test, the Mann-Whitney and Wilcoxon Tests using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows version 20 version (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Results The mean age of pregnant women in the intervention group was 28.84 ± 6.20 years old and 29.03 ± 5.42 years old in the control group. There was a significant mean difference between the fasting blood sugar score (p= 0.02; - 6.01; and - 11.46) and the 2-hour fasting blood sugar score (p< 0.001;12.35; and - 5.3) and the perceived stress score (p< 0.001; 35.57; and - 49.19) existed between the intervention and control groups after the intervention. Conclusion The results of the present study showed that mindfulness-based stress reduction counseling is effective in reducing blood sugar levels and reducing perceived stress in women with gestational diabetes treated with diet.

The impact of chronic comorbidity in elderly people on relatives’ physical and mental health during the nursing home confinement:A multiple mediator analysis / 西安交通大学学报(医学版)

【Objective】 To explore the relationship between chronic comorbidity and the physical and mental health of relatives of elderly people during the nursing home confinement, and to analyze the mediating effects of perceived stress and intolerance of uncertainty in this context. 【Methods】 A total of 568 family members of elderly people in nine elderly institutions in Shaanxi Province were selected. The survey included the short version of the Perceived Stress Scale, Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale, and The World Health Organization-5 Well-being Index. The data were analyzed with Stata for correlation and mediation effects. 【Results】 ① The comorbidities of chronic diseases was positively correlated with the perceived stress (r=0.16, P<0.001) and intolerance of uncertainty (r=0.11, P=0.006) of the family members, but negatively correlated with the physical and mental health of the family members (r=-0.13, P=0.002). ② The mediating effect of perceived stress between chronic disease co-morbidity and physical and mental health of family members in older adults was -0.023, accounting for 18.8% of the total effect; the mediating effect of intolerance of uncertainty between chronic disease co-morbidity and physical and mental health of family members in older adults was -0.041, accounting for 33.5% of the total effect. 【Conclusion】 During closed management in a nursing facility, the physical and mental health of family members of older adults with chronic co-morbidities is poorer than that of family members of non-chronic co-morbidities. And it can lead to a decline in physical and mental health of family members through increased perceived stress and intolerance of uncertainty.

Relationship of graduate students’ psychological stress and perceived stress with their mental health / 西安交通大学学报(医学版)

【Objective】 To explore the relationship of graduate students’ psychological stress and perceived stress with their mental health, and analyze the mediating effect of perceived stress. 【Methods】 We investigated 705 graduate students by Chinese College Student Mental Health Scale (CCSMHS), Chinese College Student Psychological Stress Scale (CCSPSS), and Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS). Correlation and structural equation model analysis was made. 【Results】 The graduate students’ psychological stress and perceived stress had significant correlation with their mental health. SEM analysis showed that perceived stress served as a partial mediation variable between psychological stress and mental health. Psychological stress had direct effects (0.216) for mental health and indirect effects (0.126) through perceived stress. 【Conclusion】 Graduate students’ psychological stress can influence their mental health directly, and can also reduce mental health level by increasing perceived stress. Perceived stress has partial mediating effect between psychological stress and mental health.

Path analysis of mediating effect of perceived stress affecting impact of event in rehabilitation patients with traumatic injury / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo explore the effect of perceived stress on the impact of event in rehabilitation patients with traumatic injury, and the mediating role of difficulties in emotion regulation, rumination and sleep. MethodsFrom March, 2022 to March, 2023, using the convenient sampling method, a questionnaire survey was conducted on 192 rehabilitation patients with traumatic injury from Southwest Hospital, Xinqiao Hospital and Daping Hospital. Assessment tools included Perceived Stress Scale, Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale, Brief Ruminative Response Scale, Self-Rating Scale of Sleep, and Impact of Event Scale-revised. ResultsPerceived stress, difficulties in emotion regulation, rumination, sleep and the impact of event were correlated with each other in rehabilitation patients with traumatic injury (r = 0.447~0.684, P < 0.01). Perceived stress significant positively predicted the impact of event (β = 0.49, P < 0.001), as well as difficulties in emotion (β = 0.70, P < 0.001), rumination (β = 0.21, P < 0.05) and sleep (β = 0.29, P < 0.001). The direct effect of perceived stress on the impact of event was not significant, but it affected the impact of event through seven mediation paths, among which the independent mediation effect size of difficulties in emotion regulation, rumination and sleep accounted for 24.41%, 11.91% and 24.82%, respectively; the chain mediation effect size of difficulties in emotion regulation and rumination accounted for 13.88%, the chain mediation effect size of difficulties in emotion regulation and sleep accounted for 18.08%, the chain mediation effect size of rumination and sleep accounted for 3.17%, and the chain mediation effect size of difficulties in emotion regulation, meditation and sleep accounted for 3.70%. ConclusionPerceived stress affected the impact of event in rehabilitation patients with traumatic injury through the independent mediation and chain mediation of difficulties in emotion regulation, rumination and sleep.

Association between dietary quality and perceived stress based on the CHNS database / 公共卫生与预防医学

Objective To explore the association between dietary quality and perceived stress among adult Chinese. Methods The China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS) was used to investigate the association between dietary quality and perceived stress in Chinese adults. The Chinese Perceived Stress Scale (CPSS) was used to assess the perceived stress in Chinese adults. Binary logistic regression models were utilized to explore the relationship between diet quality and perceived stress. Restricted cubic splines (RCS) were utilized to clarify the dose response relationship between diet quality and perceived stress. Results Binary logistic regression models revealed that adults with CHEI score ranged from P25 to P50 and higher than P75 had 15.1% (OR=0.849，95%CI：0.738-0.977) and 23.0% (OR=0.770，95%CI：0.666-0.891) reduced risk of high perceived stress after multivariable adjustment when compared with adults with CHEI score less than P25. RCS results showed that the OR value of high perceived stress risk decreased gradually with increasing CHEI score in the overall population, but this association was not statistically significant in adults with lower CHEI score. Conclusion High dietary quality is associated with a reduced risk of high perceived stress. This study provides a theoretical reference for the health effects of high dietary quality on high perceived stress risk reduction.

Psychological impact of Covid-19 pandemic: Exploring the mediating role of age, gender and type of occupation

Background: The Covid 19 outbreak has been one of its kind in terms of the far reaching and widespread impact. The mental health effects of Covid 19 may shape the psychological framework of the population for many years. The present study aims to investigate the demographic determinants of age, gender and occupational type on the psychological impact of Covid 19 outbreak. Methodology: Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) & Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) were used to study the psychological impact. Role of gender, age & type of occupation in perceived stress was also studied. Independent sample t test and Pearson correlation coefficient were performed to derive inferences from the data. Results: Age, gender and type of occupation did not have much impact on the perceived stress level however the participants perceived stress level directly strongly correlates with experience of symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. Conclusion: Perceived stress was low in the initial phases of the pandemic and was not mediated by age, gender and type of occupation. The measures undertaken to curb the pandemic had a positive influence on mental health as it helped to keep perceived stress to be low. Perceived stress is directly correlated to actual experience of stress, depression & anxiety and hence avoiding sharing of stress inducing information is important. In this context, media coverage can play a part by focusing on positive news of recovery and discouraging stress triggering messages in order to keep perceived stress factor low

COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND UNIVERSITY RESEARCH STUDENTS : THE ANALYSIS OF STRESS AND COPING STRATEGIES

The present study has assessed the perceived stress and coping strategies, among the research students amid the Covid-19 lockdown in Bundelkhand University, Jhansi. Objectives: The objectives of the study were to assess perceived stress and coping strategies of the research students of different discipline in Covid-19 lockdown, and to determine the association, if any, of stress and coping with selected demographic variables. Material and Method: This was conducted online from April 2021 to June 2021. Third, 4th & 5th year of PhD research students (N=72) participated, whose perceived stress and coping strategies, due to Covid-19, were assessed through an online questionnaire. The tool used was comprised of three sections- demographic data, as part-A; Perceived Stress Scale, as part-B; and Coping Strategies Scale, as part-C. Results: It highlights perceived stress among the research students who were earlier active in daily routine and overall lifestyle. Mean coping strategies score was measured to 73.18+13.12and perceived stress score was 20.44+6.21 with maladaptive coping strategy being the highest in the participants. Conclusion: Study observed perceived stress in research students during Covid-19 lockdown, who previously showed a hectic daily routine and lifestyle. The mean coping strategies score was measured as 73.18+13.12among the participants and perceived stress score was 20.44+6.21 with maladaptive coping strategy being the highest in the participants. The amplified understanding about Covid-19 may help to diminish its fear and reduce Covid-19 related stress.

Validación de la Escala de estrés percibido por COVID-19 en estudiantes universitarios peruanos

El objetivo de este estudio fue validar y estudiar el desempeño psicométrico, consistencia interna y dimensionalidad de la Escala de Estrés Percibido relacionada con el COVID-19 (EEP-10-C) con una muestra de un total 343 estudiantes, quienes completaron la encuesta voluntariamente. La validez se determinó mediante un análisis factorial exploratorio y confirmatorio y su consistencia interna fue calculada con los coeficientes de alfa de Cronbach (0.859) y omega de McDonald (0.887). Los resultados mostraron que se establecieron dos dimensiones para EEP-10-C: el distrés general explicó el 44.2 % de varianza acumulada y la capacidad de afrontamiento, el 55.8 %. El AFC de la propuesta bidimensional señaló adecuados índices de ajuste (X2/gl = 2.590, GFI = 0.949, TLI = 0.936, CFI = 0.952 el SRMR = 0.0435 y el RMSEA = 0.068). El EEP-10-C tuvo una consistencia interna aceptable y dos dimensiones que desarrollaron el instrumento psicométrico de estrés percibido por COVID-19 aceptables para estudiantes universitarios peruanos.

This study aimed to validate and study the psychometric performance, internal consistency and dimensionality of the Perceived Stress Scale related to COVID-19 (EEP-10-C) with a sample of a total of 343 students, who completed the survey voluntarily. Validity was determined by exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis and its internal consistency was calculated with Cronbach's alpha (0.859) and McDonald's omega (0.887) coefficients. The results showed that two dimensions were established for EEP-10-C: general distress explained 44.2% of cumulative variance and coping ability, 55.8%. The AFC of the two-dimensional approach indicated adequate fit indices (X2/gl= 2.590, GFI=0.949, TLI=0.936, CFI= 0.952 the SRMR=0.0435 and the RMSEA=0.068). The EEP-10-C had an acceptable internal consistency and two dimensions that developed the psychometric instrument of perceived stress by covid-19 acceptable for Peruvian university students.

Perceived stress in medical students and correlation of perceived stress levels with self-directed learning readiness

Background: Medical students are exposed to increased stress due to factors such as academic pressure, high expectations from parents, peer pressure, reduced leisure time, and ambitions of higher studies. Students in professional courses are expected to have skills for self-directed learning. It is the process of learning, in which the student frames his own learning goals, who chooses appropriate strategies for learning. The present study aims to look for level of perceived stress among medical students, readiness for self-directed learning and to correlate readiness for self-directed learning with level of perceived stress. Aims and Objectives: The aims if this study were to assess perceived stress and readiness for self-directed learning in medical students and to correlate stress levels with readiness for self-directed learning. Materials and Methods: The study was done by online survey using Google forms which were shared among medical students. Two hundred students participated in this study. The online survey consisted of Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) to assess the level of stress, Fisher’s Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale (SDLRS) to assess readiness for self-directed learning. Results: Among the 200 students, who participated in the study, about 127 (63.7%) had PSS >28. The mean PSS was 31.6 (SD 6.79) and mean SDLRS was 145.22 (SD 18.5). Between SDLRS and PSS, there was a significant negative correlation (r = ?0.417), suggesting inverse relationship. Scatter plot showed presence of linear relationship between SDLRS and PSS scores. Regression analysis showed significant association between SDLRS and PSS with P < 0.001. Conclusion: Significant proportion of medical students was found to have moderate perceived stress. Students with higher SDL readiness had significantly lower perceived stress.

An interprofessional interventional approach to improve the mental well-being of medical students for better academic performances

Background: Medical students are the future doctors who are the primary caregivers for the society. High level of stress can obstruct the learning of medical students by impairing their concentration, problem solving, and decision-making skills. Improving mental well-being of medical students will ensure community safety. The stakeholders need to realize positive role of mental well-being on academic performance of students. This will not only benefit the students as well as the society as a whole. Aim and Objective: The present study was innovatively planned to determine the impact of the motivational sessions on relieving perceived stress and anxiety of the students along-with impact of such sessions on motivation for learning. Materials and Methods: An interventional cross-sectional study was designed for 2nd year MBBS students. A module comprising of eight sessions for improving mental well-being of undergraduate students was designed by an interprofessional team comprising a medical teacher, clinical phycologist, psychiatrist, and medical students. The pre-validated scales used were Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) to assess anxiety level, Perceived Stress Scale to assess perceived stress, and Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire to measure the types of learning strategies and academic motivation of college students. Results: About 64% (n = 46) of the participants were male and 36% (n = 26) were female students. The present study showed no significant association between the gender and stress. It was seen that number of students with high perceived stress before the session were reduced by as much as 72.41% and that of students with highest motivation for learning strategies doubled from 18 to 36 (100% improvement).The difference in means of HAM-A scores in post-test and pre-tests is highly significant (P = 0.01). The students were very much satisfied with the mode and content of the module. They expressed that these sessions made them feel thought of and cared for. Conclusion: It is strongly recommended to apply this interprofessional interventional approach to improve the mental well-being of medical students for better academic performances.

Comparison of physical fitness and mental stress in exercising and non-exercising medical students

Background: Both physical fitness and mental fitness are essential to achieve success, especially in medical college students, where the academic pressure is high. Studies have shown that exercise helps to reduce mental stress as well as to maintain the fitness. Aims and Objectives: The present study was aimed to compare the level of physical fitness and level of mental stress in exercising and non-exercising medical students. Materials and Methods: A study was done on 60 medical students of age group of 18–20 years with 30 in the exercise group and 30 in the non-exercise group. Modified Harvard step test was used to assess physical fitness index and perceived stress scale questionnaire to assess mental stress. Descriptive analysis and independent t-test were used for statistical analysis. Results: The study demonstrated higher physical fitness (P < 0.01) and lower mental stress levels (P < 0.01) in the exercising group when compared to the non-exercising group. Conclusion: There was better physical fitness and lower mental stress levels among the exercising group when compared with the non-exercising group.

Respuestas psicológicas a la cuarentena por pandemia de COVID-19 en población colombiana / Psychological responses to the COVID-19 pandemic quarantine in Colombian population

Resumen Introducción: el presente estudio analiza el estrés percibido, las estrategias de afrontamiento, su regulación emocional, impacto y malestar psicológico, durante la cuarentena por la pandemia de COVID-19 en la población colombiana. Método: muestra no probabilística de 356 adultos que respondieron un cuestionario en línea. Resultados: se encontraron puntuaciones medias y altas en estrategias de afrontamiento y regulación emocional activas y puntuaciones bajas en estrés, malestar psicológico e impacto de la cuarentena. El 38.76 % presentó puntuaciones que indican riesgo de trastorno por estrés postraumático. Las mujeres, los menores de 35 años, los bachilleres, los estudiantes y las personas que viven solas presentan mayores afectaciones. Se encontraron relaciones estadísticamente significativas de estrés con todas las variables, excepto con apoyo social y convivientes durante la cuarentena. Por último, se encontró asociación positiva del estrés con desahogo, supresión expresiva, impacto de la cuarentena y malestar psicológico; y asociación negativa con planificación, aceptación, revaluación cognitiva y edad mayor de 25 años. Conclusiones: los resultados contribuyen a comprender las respuestas ante la cuarentena e identificar factores de vulnerabilidad para diseñar programas de prevención e intervención.

Abstract Introduction: The aim of this study was to analyze the perceived stress, coping strategies, emotional regulation, impact of the event, and psychological distress during quarantine due to COVID-19 pandemic in the Colombian population. Method: Non-probabilistic sample made up of 356 adults who answered an online questionnaire. Results: It was found medium and high scores in active coping strategies and emotional regulation, and low scores in stress, psychological distress and impact of quarantine. The 38.76 % presented scores that indicate risk of post-traumatic stress disorder. Women, people under 35 years of age, high school graduates, students, and living alone during the quarantine showed higher affectation. Statistically significant correlations of stress with all variables except with social support and cohabitants during quarantine were found. Finally, it was found a positive association of stress with venting, expressive suppression, the impact of quarantine, and psychological distress, and negative association with planning, acceptance, cognitive reappraisal, and age over 25 years. Conclusions: These results contribute to understanding responses to quarantine and to identify vulnerability factors to design prevention and intervention programs.

Status of mental stress among medical students: Experience from medical colleges in Bihar

Background: Admission in medical colleges exposes students to a new educational environment. Then, they encounter the pressure of huge syllabus, language hurdles, peer stress, stress of hostel life, etc. The coping capability in these stressful conditions varies student to student. Aim and Objectives: In this study, we aimed to ascertain the level of stress assessed by a validated questionnaire among first-year medical students. Materials and Methods: This was an online survey-based study. A validated questionnaire Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) was used to ascertain the level of perceived stress. The questionnaire assesses the perceived stress for the past 1 month period. Questionnaire link was distributed among 200 students. Data were tabulated and presented by descriptive statistical tests such as mean, standard deviation, and percentage. The inferential statistical test – Chi-square test and ANOVA were conducted in Microsoft Excel 2010. Results: A total 103 student submitted completed questionnaire (survey response rate 51.5%). Among the students, 27.18% was in “no stress” category and 72.82% was among different level of “stress” category. Among the stressed students, 39.81% was in “mild stress,” 18.45% was in “moderate stress,” and 14.56% was in “severe stress.” Mean score of these four groups showed statistically significant (P < 0.001) difference when tested by ANOVA. Conclusion: The majority of medical students have mild stress. A significant percent also suffers from moderate-to-severe stress. Teacher and the stakeholders should take necessary steps to help those students in coping up with stress related to studies by counseling and other interventions.