Students and young trade workers neuropsychiatric maladjustment assessment under COVID-19 epidemic restrictions

Introduction. Since March 2020, the introduction of a self-isolation regime and significant restrictions on personal contacts at work and school in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic has led to an expansion of the introduction of information technologies and a sharp restriction of direct interpersonal communication. The introduction of these restrictions has had a stressful effect on the body of both workers and students of various age groups, including young people. For a successful analysis of the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on the psychophysiological state of these categories of young workers and students, it seems appropriate to assess the state of maladaptation, self-assessment of nervous and somatic well-being. The study aims to assess the impact on the adaptive psychophysiological parameters of young trade workers and students of the changed working and study conditions against the background of the COVID–19 epidemic situation (self-isolation). Materials and methods. The object of the study was two groups of people who have a wide range of communication with colleagues and people around them, but differ in the content of their activities: students and trade workers. Scientists have conducted the study in two stages: before the pandemic (2013) and during the pandemic (December 2020) due to drastic changes in the algorithm of existence and work/study. We have examined 119 students aged 20–24 years (RGSU). There were 61 people at the first stage of the study (2013), there were 58 people at the second stage (2020, December). The second group (trade workers): 66 people aged 20–29 years. At the first stage of the study (2013), 34 people were included, at the second stage — 32 people. Experts have carried out the assessment of the psychophysiological parameters of the examined according to the questionnaire of neuropsychiatric maladjustment (ONPD). The condition for inclusion in the groups in 2020–2021 is the absence of a history of transferred COVID-19. Results. During the tense epidemic situation (2019-2021), against the background of the spread of COVID-19 and forced self-isolation of all population groups, the lifestyle has radically changed. Face-to-face communication has been minimized, but communication using information technology in all spheres of life (daily life, study, work) has increased dramatically. The researchers found that among the surveyed population groups (students and sales workers), the spread of signs of mental discomfort increased. Limitations. The study was limited to a sample of age groups: 20–24 years for students, 20–29 years for trade workers (in both periods). Conclusion. The calculation of the odds ratio (OR) allowed us to establish with a high degree of confidence that signs of mental discomfort, including asthenic and depressive signals, were significantly more often recorded during the period of self-isolation in both study groups: for students who are on distance learning (December 2020 compared to 2013): the coefficient of OR=5.4, (χ2=14.7;p<0.001);for sales workers: coefficient OR=15.0;(χ2=9.5;p<0.001). Ethics. Questions whose content does not meet ethical standards were not included in the study, as a result of which the conclusion of the biomedical ethics committee or other documents was not required. © 2023, Izmerov Research Institute of Occupational Medicine. All rights reserved.

Students and young trade workers neuropsychiatric maladjustment assessment under COVID-19 epidemic restrictions

Introduction. Since March 2020, the introduction of a self-isolation regime and significant restrictions on personal contacts at work and school in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic has led to an expansion of the introduction of information technologies and a sharp restriction of direct interpersonal communication. The introduction of these restrictions has had a stressful effect on the body of both workers and students of various age groups, including young people. For a successful analysis of the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on the psychophysiological state of these categories of young workers and students, it seems appropriate to assess the state of maladaptation, self-assessment of nervous and somatic well-being. The study aims to assess the impact on the adaptive psychophysiological parameters of young trade workers and students of the changed working and study conditions against the background of the COVID–19 epidemic situation (self-isolation). Materials and methods. The object of the study was two groups of people who have a wide range of communication with colleagues and people around them, but differ in the content of their activities: students and trade workers. Scientists have conducted the study in two stages: before the pandemic (2013) and during the pandemic (December 2020) due to drastic changes in the algorithm of existence and work/study. We have examined 119 students aged 20–24 years (RGSU). There were 61 people at the first stage of the study (2013), there were 58 people at the second stage (2020, December). The second group (trade workers): 66 people aged 20–29 years. At the first stage of the study (2013), 34 people were included, at the second stage — 32 people. Experts have carried out the assessment of the psychophysiological parameters of the examined according to the questionnaire of neuropsychiatric maladjustment (ONPD). The condition for inclusion in the groups in 2020–2021 is the absence of a history of transferred COVID-19. Results. During the tense epidemic situation (2019-2021), against the background of the spread of COVID-19 and forced self-isolation of all population groups, the lifestyle has radically changed. Face-to-face communication has been minimized, but communication using information technology in all spheres of life (daily life, study, work) has increased dramatically. The researchers found that among the surveyed population groups (students and sales workers), the spread of signs of mental discomfort increased. Limitations. The study was limited to a sample of age groups: 20–24 years for students, 20–29 years for trade workers (in both periods). Conclusion. The calculation of the odds ratio (OR) allowed us to establish with a high degree of confidence that signs of mental discomfort, including asthenic and depressive signals, were significantly more often recorded during the period of self-isolation in both study groups: for students who are on distance learning (December 2020 compared to 2013): the coefficient of OR=5.4, (χ2=14.7;p<0.001);for sales workers: coefficient OR=15.0;(χ2=9.5;p<0.001). Ethics. Questions whose content does not meet ethical standards were not included in the study, as a result of which the conclusion of the biomedical ethics committee or other documents was not required. © 2023, Izmerov Research Institute of Occupational Medicine. All rights reserved.

Factors associated with falls during voluntary self-isolation among community-dwelling older people: a longitudinal study.

[Purpose] We aimed to explore the factors that predict falls in community-dwelling older people over 6 months during their voluntary self-isolation for the coronavirus disease (SARS-CoV-2). [Participants and Methods] In this longitudinal study, we surveyed older people aged ≥65 years living in Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture, using a questionnaire. We investigated the relationship between the frailty screening index and fall rate. [Results] A total of 588 older adults (response rate, 35.7%) filled and returned the questionnaire during the study period. Of these, 391 participants who had not applied for long-term care insurance and had completed the data on the response items were included in the study. Based on their responses in the survey questionnaire, 35 (8.95%) participants were grouped into the fall group and 356 into the non-fall group. Subsequently, the "no" response to "Can you recall what happened 5 minutes ago?" and "yes" response to "Have you felt tired for no reason (in the past 2 weeks)?" were identified as the significant factors associated with falls. [Conclusion] It is important to pay attention to the subjective evaluation of patients' cognitive decline and fatigue to prevent falls owing to the implementation of SARS-CoV-2 countermeasures.

Results of Adaptation of the Diagnostic Tool for Measuring Changes in the Eating Behavior of Russians during COVID-19 Pandemic

Against the backdrop of a biogenic threat (coronavirus infection), many people tried to strengthen control over their life, in particular, in eating behavior, or, on the contrary, turned it into uncontrolled autotherapy. To study changes in eating behavior and related lifestyle changes, a compact scaled questionnaire instrument by Indian colleagues was chosen (Kumari et al., 2020). To adapt the questionnaire and diagnose changes in the eating behavior of Russians, an empirical study was performed (827 respondents from 17 to 75 years old) against the backdrop of the second wave of the pandemic (November 2020 - January 2021). The research toolkit also included a modified (short) version of T.A. Nestik's "Attitude to the epidemiological threat", supplemented by the question of attitude to the requirements of self-isolation, and the technique "Time attitudes" by J. Nuttin modified by K. Muzdybaev. The results of the study allowed us to confirm the construct validity and reliability of the questionnaire on changes in eating behavior during the pandemic, as well as to identify the optimal (health, immunity, performance) and non-optimal behavioral strategies. In addition, it was shown that respondents with a behavioral strategy that has changed in favor of a healthy lifestyle have a more positive attitude towards their past and future, and a more meaningful attitude towards the present. They approach the demands of self-isolation more positively and more constructively, in particular by trying to reduce the threats of the situation at the level of eating behavior, which, in turn, contributes to their greater emotional stability.

Understanding Reference Information of Self Isolation Survivors for Coping COVID19

The goal of this study is to comprehend the information-seeking behaviours of COVID19 patients who were self-isolating or self-quarantine. This study used a qualitative approach where data were collected using interview technique. The findings imply that COVID19 survivors favour information accessed from official government sources. The COVID19 symptoms, as well as the health protocols and precautions to follow during self-isolation, were fully understood by the survivors. The study also showed that participants double-checked their information using various platforms. The study emphasizes how crucial it is for the relevant authorities to provide thorough and accurate information on how to handle COVID19.

Cardiovascular Risks Associated with Distance Learning in the Covid-19 Pandemic (Review Article)

Aim: the paper aims to analyze the new conditions of student self-isolation associated with the Covid-19 epidemic. Materials and methods. The paper is based on the theoretical analysis of domestic and foreign publications in the field of education with the use of information technologies over the past ten years and statistical data about morbidity and mortality of chronic non-communicable diseases (CNID) in Russia for the same period. Results. The features of distance learning are considered. The role of risk fac-tors in the development of CNID, including cardiovascular diseases, is indicated. Conclusions are drawn about the negative impact of the so-called "home schooling" on the health of university students, and op-tions are proposed to combat them and prevent the development of CNID with the use of information tech-nologies. Conclusion. The use of innovative methods for teaching physical education in universities (tele -medicine, Internet) will make it possible to attract more students to a healthy lifestyle (HLS) and develop their sports skills.

Distance education in physical education during COVID-19 quarantine in Ukraine

One of the major tasks of the social program of the state is to strengthen and maintain the health of youth. In the context of significant deterioration of the psychophysical readiness of young students, the issue of maintaining their health cannot be considered outside the context of physical education, which is of great social importance in this perspective. Moreover, the quality of higher education is equated with the quality of training of able-bodied professionals. This is ensured by the proper state of their health. In the period of quarantine, the students were forced to spend maximum time only on mental activity via distance mode of learning. An adequate and only possible response to the challenges of today is the use of distance learning technologies for students to effectively implement their physical education in quarantine. At the same time, one of the key problems is the proper organization of physical culture and health activities of students to maintain their health in conditions of extremely limited physical activity. © Copyright 2022: Publication Service of the University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.

Self-isolated but not alone: Community management work in the time of a pandemic

As the COVID-19 crisis forces individuals to self-isolate, work from home, and find new leisure activities, an increasing number are turning to online gaming. These online communities are often developed by community managers who work to engage communities and establish norms. Community management work, broadly, is considered the "soft-skilled" labor of communication, diplomacy, and empathy within an online community. Despite an obvious need for this work in mediating the myriad of personalities and sheer number of users, community management is often underpaid and precarious. Using early interviews with community managers, conducted during the COVID-19 crisis, I aim to highlight those who work promoting pro-social behavior in leisure spaces online. This work plays a vital role in community well-being, particularly for those who have not previously interacted extensively online. Community management is arguably an essential service during times of self-isolation, as they corral toxicity and shepherd users into positive online communities. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved)

ASSESSMENT OF THE QUALITY OF LIFE IN MOSCOW ATHLETES DURNING COVID-19 ASSOCIATED SELF-ISOLATION

Aim. The purpose of the study was to assess the quality of life in Moscow athletes during COVID-19 associated self-isolation in the spring of 2020. Materials and methods. A total of 363 athletes (185 males) aged from 14 to 36 years (M = 19.5) participated in the survey that involved the interview and questionnaire methods (the quality of life scale by N. Vodopyanova). Results. Moscow athletes found themselves in different training conditions during self-isolation. A positive relationship was found between the subjective well-being of Moscow athletes and their productivity during self-isolation/changes in their training schedule. Conclusion. The subjective well-being of Moscow athletes during COVID-19 associated self-isolation in the spring of 2020 was mediated by their productivity and the nature of changes in their training schedule. © 2022 South Ural State University - Institute of Sport, Tourism and Service. All rights reserved.

Results of Adaptation of the Diagnostic Tool for Measuring Changes in the Eating Behavior of Russians during COVID-19 Pandemic

Against the backdrop of a biogenic threat (coronavirus infection), many people tried to strengthen control over their life, in particular, in eating behavior, or, on the contrary, turned it into uncontrolled autotherapy. To study changes in eating behavior and related lifestyle changes, a compact scaled questionnaire instrument by Indian colleagues was chosen (Kumari et al., 2020). To adapt the questionnaire and diagnose changes in the eating behavior of Russians, an empirical study was performed (827 respondents from 17 to 75 years old) against the backdrop of the second wave of the pandemic (November 2020 — January 2021). The research toolkit also included a modified (short) version of T.A. Nestik's "Attitude to the epidemiological threat”, supplemented by the question of attitude to the requirements of self-isolation, and the technique "Time attitudes” by J. Nuttin modified by K. Muzdybaev. The results of the study allowed us to confirm the construct validity and reliability of the questionnaire on changes in eating behavior during the pandemic, as well as to identify the optimal (health, immunity, performance) and non-optimal behavioral strategies. In addition, it was shown that respondents with a behavioral strategy that has changed in favor of a healthy lifestyle have a more positive attitude towards their past and future, and a more meaningful attitude towards the present. They approach the demands of self-isolation more positively and more constructively, in particular by trying to reduce the threats of the situation at the level of eating behavior, which, in turn, contributes to their greater emotional stability. © 2022 National Research University Higher School of Economics. All rights reserved.

Results of Adaptation of the Diagnostic Tool for Measuring Changes in the Eating Behavior of Russians during COVID-19 Pandemic

Against the backdrop of a biogenic threat (coronavirus infection), many people tried to strengthen control over their life, in particular, in eating behavior, or, on the contrary, turned it into uncontrolled autotherapy. To study changes in eating behavior and related lifestyle changes, a compact scaled questionnaire instrument by Indian colleagues was chosen (Kumari et al., 2020). To adapt the questionnaire and diagnose changes in the eating behavior of Russians, an empirical study was performed (827 respondents from 17 to 75 years old) against the backdrop of the second wave of the pandemic (November 2020 — January 2021). The research toolkit also included a modified (short) version of T.A. Nestik's "Attitude to the epidemiological threat”, supplemented by the question of attitude to the requirements of self-isolation, and the technique "Time attitudes” by J. Nuttin modified by K. Muzdybaev. The results of the study allowed us to confirm the construct validity and reliability of the questionnaire on changes in eating behavior during the pandemic, as well as to identify the optimal (health, immunity, performance) and non-optimal behavioral strategies. In addition, it was shown that respondents with a behavioral strategy that has changed in favor of a healthy lifestyle have a more positive attitude towards their past and future, and a more meaningful attitude towards the present. They approach the demands of self-isolation more positively and more constructively, in particular by trying to reduce the threats of the situation at the level of eating behavior, which, in turn, contributes to their greater emotional stability. © 2022 National Research University Higher School of Economics. All rights reserved.

An investigation of patterns of association between anxiety symptom clusters and mask-wearing during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada

Several measures have been implemented to reduce the spread of the COVID-19, with mask-wearing among the most widely used measures. Yet, the barriers to mask-wearing are unclear. This study examined whether different types of anxiety symptom clusters (i.e., symptoms of claustrophobia, physical anxiety sensitivity, and social anxiety sensitivity) are associated with mask-wearing tendencies during the COVID-19 pandemic and investigated how anxiety symptom clusters relate to mask-wearing discomfort and self-isolation distress. A total of 556 Canadian adults were recruited online between January and February of 2021. The study was administered online via Qualtrics. Participants completed questionnaires measuring symptoms of claustrophobia, anxiety sensitivity, and isolation distress, along with a measure of mask-wearing behaviours. Linear regression analyses revealed that elevated anxiety symptoms across all symptom clusters predicted more physical and emotional discomfort related to mask-wearing, as well as reduced likelihood of leaving the home due to mask-related discomfort. Leaving home less often due to mask-related discomfort was significantly associated with more self-isolation distress and poorer coping overall. Differential patterns of mask-wearing behaviours across anxiety symptom clusters were not detected. These findings suggest that anxiety symptoms (i.e., including claustrophobia, physical anxiety sensitivity, and social anxiety sensitivity) are positively associated with mask-related distress. This, in turn, may lead people to avoid leaving their home and consequently experience increased self-isolation distress. Furthermore, these findings suggest that people with heightened anxiety symptoms tend to experience more discomfort with mask-wearing, which may perpetuate a cycle of avoidance and poorer coping overall. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved) (French) Plusieurs mesures ont ete mises en oeuvre pour reduire la propagation de la COVID-19, le port du masque etant l'une des mesures les plus utilisees. Pourtant, les obstacles au port du masque ne sont pas clairs. Cette etude a examine si differents types de groupes de symptomes d'anxiete (c'est-a-dire les symptomes de claustrophobie, de sensibilite a l'anxiete physique et de sensibilite a l'anxiete sociale) etaient associes aux tendances de port du masque pendant la pandemie de COVID-19 et a etudie comment les groupes de symptomes d'anxiete sont lies a l'inconfort du port de masque et a la detresse liee a l'isolement. Un total de 556 adultes canadiens ont ete recrutes en ligne entre janvier et fevrier 2021. L'etude a ete administree en ligne via Qualtrics. Les participants ont rempli des questionnaires mesurant les symptomes de claustrophobie, la sensibilite a l'anxiete et la detresse liee a l'isolement, ainsi qu'une mesure des comportements lies au port du masque. Les analyses de regression lineaire ont revele que des symptomes d'anxiete eleves dans tous les groupes de symptomes predisaient un plus grand inconfort physique et emotionnel lie au port du masque, ainsi qu'une probabilite reduite de quitter le domicile en raison de l'inconfort lie au port du masque. Le fait de quitter le domicile moins souvent en raison d'un inconfort lie au port du masque etait significativement associe a une plus grande detresse liee a l'isolement et a une moins bonne adaptation globale. Il n'a pas ete possible de detecter des comportements differents en matiere de port de masque selon les groupes de symptomes d'anxiete. Ces resultats indiquent que les symptomes d'anxiete (y compris la claustrophobie, la sensibilite a l'anxiete physique et la sensibilite a l'anxiete sociale) sont positivement associes a la detresse liee au port du masque. Cela peut conduire les personnes a eviter de quitter leur domicile et, par consequent, a eprouver une detresse accrue liee a l'isolement. De plus, ces resultats suggerent que les personnes presentant des symptomes d'anxiete eleves ont tendance a eprouver plus d'inconfort lie au port du masque, ce qui peut perpetuer un cycle d'evitement et une moins bonne adaptation globale. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved) Impact Statement The findings suggest that anxiety symptoms may interfere with engagement in this important public health measure, informing policy-makers of at-risk groups in the population. Moreover, those who experience higher mask-related anxiety are more likely to stay at home, leading to increased self-isolation and isolation-related distress. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved)

Depressive and anxious symptomatology in a Lebanese sample during the COVID-19 outbreak

This study explores the correlates of depressive and anxious symptomatology in a Lebanese sample during the COVID-19 outbreak. A convenience sample of 191 respondents participated in a cross-sectional survey and completed measures of fear of COVID-19, rumination about COVID-19, job insecurity, political trust, depression, and generalized anxiety. Results indicated that political trust was associated with greater wellbeing (manifested as decreased job insecurity, fear of COVID-19, depression, and anxiety). Respondents who reported no compliance with self-isolation measures reported less rumination about COVID-19 and less fear of COVID-19 than those who did. Multiple regression analyses showed that fear of, and rumination about, COVID-19 predicted depressive and anxious symptomatology while political trust was protective against depressive symptomatology only. This study provides a novel perspective on mental health in Lebanon, by focusing on its social and psychological predictors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to political and economic instability in Lebanon, the COVID-19 crisis may have deleterious effects on mental health in the Lebanese population. Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy is an evidence-based and cost-effective approach to enhancing mental health during the pandemic and may be beneficial in the Lebanese context.Copyright © 2021 The Author(s). Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.

Self-Isolation and Adolescents' Friendship Quality: Moderation of Technology Use for Friendship Maintenance

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the moderating effect of technology use for friendship maintenance in the associations between self-isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic and friendship quality, measured 6 months later (Time 2). Participants were 1,567 seventh and eighth graders (51% female;51% white;Mage = 13.47) from the United States. They completed questionnaires on friendship quality at Time 1, and self-isolation during COVID-19 and technology use for friendship maintenance and friendship quality at Time 2. The findings revealed that self-isolation during COVID-19 was related positively to technology use for friendship maintenance and negatively to Time 2 friendship quality. Higher technology use for friendship maintenance buffered against the negative impacts on friendship quality associated with self-isolation during COVID-19, while lower technology use had the opposite effects on Time 2 friendship quality.

Challenges to self-isolation among contacts of cases of COVID-19: a national telephone survey in Wales.

BACKGROUND: Self-isolation is challenging and adherence is dependent on a range of psychological, social and economic factors. We aimed to identify the challenges experienced by contacts of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases to better target support and minimize the harms of self-isolation. METHODS: The Contact Adherence Behavioural Insights Study (CABINS) was a 15-minute telephone survey conducted with confirmed contacts of COVID-19 (N = 2027), identified through the NHS Wales Test Trace Protect (TTP) database. RESULTS: Younger people (aged 18-29 years) were three times more likely to report mental health concerns (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 3.16, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.05-4.86) and two times more likely to report loneliness (aOR: 1.96, CI: 1.37-2.81) compared to people aged over 60 years. Women were 1.5 times more likely to experience mental health concerns (aOR: 1.51, 95% CI: 1.20-1.92) compared to men. People with high levels of income precarity were eight times more likely to report financial challenges (aOR: 7.73, CI: 5.10-11.74) and three times more likely to report mental health concerns than their more financially secure counterparts (aOR: 3.08, CI: 2.22-4.28). CONCLUSION: Self-isolation is particularly challenging for younger people, women and those with precarious incomes. Providing enhanced support is required to minimize the harms of self-isolation.

The Existence of Personality and Hikikomori State: a Socio-Philosophical Reflection on the Consequences of the COVID-19 Pandemic

The article is devoted to the problem of humans joining the ranks of hikikomori at the time of and after the introduction of strict quarantine measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. The lifestyle of the hikikomori, as a specific subcultural trend that focuses on the physical distancing of the individual from the space of social communication, is emphasised. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the hikikomori lifestyle became common to many people under a regime of enforced self-isolation. However, even when quarantine measures are relaxed and a return to familiar communication practices is allowed, not all people are willing to return to offline life. Attitudes towards temporality also change under conditions of pandemic and enforced self-isolation, where complex ethico-social dilemmas arise, bringing psychological discomfort to the individual on micro-and macro levels.

Results of Adaptation of the Diagnostic Tool for Measuring Changes in the Eating Behavior of Russians during COVID-19 Pandemic

Against the backdrop of a biogenic threat (coronavirus infection), many people tried to strengthen control over their life, in particular, in eating behavior, or, on the contrary, turned it into uncontrolled autotherapy. To study changes in eating behavior and related lifestyle changes, a compact scaled questionnaire instrument by Indian colleagues was chosen (Kumari et al., 2020). To adapt the questionnaire and diagnose changes in the eating behavior of Russians, an empirical study was performed (827 respondents from 17 to 75 years old) against the backdrop of the second wave of the pandemic (November 2020 - January 2021). The research toolkit also included a modified (short) version of T.A. Nestik's "Attitude to the epidemiological threat", supplemented by the question of attitude to the requirements of self-isolation, and the technique "Time attitudes" by J. Nuttin modified by K. Muzdybaev. The results of the study allowed us to confirm the construct validity and reliability of the questionnaire on changes in eating behavior during the pandemic, as well as to identify the optimal (health, immunity, performance) and non-optimal behavioral strategies. In addition, it was shown that respondents with a behavioral strategy that has changed in favor of a healthy lifestyle have a more positive attitude towards their past and future, and a more meaningful attitude towards the present. They approach the demands of self-isolation more positively and more constructively, in particular by trying to reduce the threats of the situation at the level of eating behavior, which, in turn, contributes to their greater emotional stability.

Knowledge of Self-Isolation Rules in the UK for Those Who Have Symptoms of COVID-19: A Repeated Cross-Sectional Survey Study.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate knowledge of self-isolation rules and factors associated with knowledge. METHODS: Repeated cross-sectional online surveys (n ≈ 2000 UK adults) between 9 November 2020 and 16 February 2022 (78,573 responses from 51,881 participants). We computed a composite measure of knowledge of self-isolation rules and investigated associations between knowledge and survey wave, socio-demographic characteristics (age, gender, UK nation, index of multiple deprivation), trust in government, and participants' belief that they had received enough information about self-isolation. RESULTS: In total, 87.9% (95% CI 87.7% to 88.1%, n = 67,288/76,562) of participants knew that if they had symptoms of COVID-19 they should 'self-isolate'. However, only 62.8% (n = 48,058/76,562, 95% CI 62.4% to 63.1%) knew the main rules regarding what that meant. Younger people had less knowledge than older people, and men had less knowledge than women. Knowledge was lower in people living in England versus in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The pattern of association between knowledge and trust in government was unclear. Knowledge was lower in people living in a more deprived area and those who did not believe they had enough information about self-isolation. Knowledge was lower in December 2020 to January 2021, compared with before and after this period. CONCLUSIONS: Approximately 63% of UK adults between November 2020 and February 2022 appeared to know the main rules regarding self-isolation if symptomatic with COVID-19. Knowledge was lower in younger than older people, men than women, those living in England compared with Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, and those living in more deprived areas.

Predictors of psychological distress during self-isolation.

OBJECTIVES: Global pandemics, such as the current COVID-19 pandemic, are predicted to increase in prevalence in the future. Transmission suppression techniques such as social distancing and stay-at-home restrictions have introduced an abundance of additional stressors while simultaneously reducing our capacity to cope with stress, thus increasing the collective burden of the pandemic. Numerous psychosocial factors have been identified to protect against distress in difficult circumstances. However, it is unknown whether these factors will continue to be protective in the pandemic context. DESIGN: The aim of the current study was to determine whether locus of control (LOC), coping style or self-compassion were debilitating or protective factors towards psychological well-being (depression, anxiety, stress and positive and negative affect) during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: In the current study, Australian adults (N = 176) completed a longitudinal online survey (two time points, 2 weeks apart) incorporating measures of demographics, locus of control, coping, self-compassion (measured at T1), depression, anxiety, stress and positive and negative affect (measured at T1 and T2) throughout June-August 2020, during the height of lockdown in Australia. RESULTS: Multiple regression analyses suggested that avoidant coping was predictive of increases in stress and negative affect across time points. Additionally, self-compassion was predictive of increased positive affect across time points. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that the pandemic context represents a unique stressor, demanding a distinctive set of strategies and psychosocial characteristics to cope. Interventions targeted at reducing avoidant coping behaviours and promoting self-compassion may contribute to improvements in psychological well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic as well as future pandemics.

Self-Isolation and Testing Behaviour During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Agent-Based Model.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, various models of virus spread have been proposed. While most of these models focused on the replication of the interaction processes through which the virus is passed on from infected agents to susceptible ones, less effort has been devoted to the process through which agents modify their behaviour as they adapt to the risks posed by the pandemic. Understanding the way agents respond to COVID-19 spread is important, as this behavioural response affects the dynamics of virus spread by modifying interaction patterns. In this article, we present an agent-based model that includes a behavioural module determining agent testing and isolation propensity in order to understand the role of various behavioural parameters in the spread of COVID-19.