ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: Fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and irritable bowel syndrome are highly prevalent conditions and part of the functional somatic syndromes (FSS) diagnosis, that are classified under the unifying umbrella term functional somatic disorder (FSD). Multiple factors are associated with FSD symptom development; However, few studies have explored these associations in relation to the diagnosis status. This study aims to examine associations with a previously received FSS diagnosis from a physician in participants fulfilling the FSD diagnostic criteria in a population-based sample. METHODS: This research employs a comprehensive observational approach using a cross sectional design with data from the DanFunD part two cohort. Information about received FSS diagnoses was obtained from self-reported questionnaires. Participants fulfilling the FSD diagnostic criteria were identified with both self-reported questionnaires and diagnostic interviews. Validated questionnaires were used to assess the examined factors. RESULTS: 1704 cases fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for an FSD according to questionnaires or interviews in the DanFunD study. In participants fulfilling the diagnostic criteria, having previously received an FSS diagnosis by a physician was strongly associated with female sex, negative illness perceptions and poor health-related quality of life for questionnaire and interview-based diagnoses. Less consistent associations were observed for lower socioeconomic status, anxiety, and adverse life events. CONCLUSION: Previously received FSS diagnoses showed associations with multiple factors with a particular strong association with female sex and poor health related quality of life.
Subject(s)
Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic , Fibromyalgia , Irritable Bowel Syndrome , Quality of Life , Humans , Fibromyalgia/diagnosis , Fibromyalgia/psychology , Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/diagnosis , Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/psychology , Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/epidemiology , Female , Cross-Sectional Studies , Irritable Bowel Syndrome/diagnosis , Irritable Bowel Syndrome/psychology , Male , Middle Aged , Adult , Surveys and Questionnaires , Somatoform Disorders/diagnosis , AgedABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore the mental well-being of Syrian refugees and identify their coping mechanisms and pathways towards integration into new communities. DESIGN: Qualitative study using in-depth semi-structured interviews. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: Adult Syrian refugees (>18 years old) currently residing in South East of England. RESULTS: 12 participants (3 women and 9 men) took part in the study, all were born in Syria and the majority (n=9) were over 45 years of age. Our findings show that Syrian refugees face constant challenges as they try to integrate into a new society. Loss of and separation from loved ones as well as the nostalgia for the homeland were often cited as a source of psychological distress that created an overwhelming sense of sadness. Participants reported that they struggled for connectedness due to cultural difference and the problematic nature of rapidly formed migrant communities in their new setting. They believed in 'being their own doctor' and turning to faith, ritual and nature for healing and comfort. Taboo and stigma around mental health and language barriers were cited as barriers to accessing mental healthcare services. CONCLUSION: Past experiences and present challenges frame Syrian refugees' sense of well-being, impact use of healthcare and risk future mental health problems. It is hoped that this study will act as a catalyst for further research on this vulnerable group to promote integration, community support and culturally sensitive mental health services.
