Social support network factors associated with verbal fluency among vulnerable persons living with HIV.

Vulnerable persons living with HIV (PLWH) are at high risk of cognitive impairment and challenges accessing quality social support in later life. Impaired verbal fluency (VF), a cognitive domain linked to HIV, could impede social support associated with health and well-being for already vulnerable PLWH. We examined the structure of social support, using latent class analysis, and the associations among quantity, specific forms and quality of social support and VF among PLWH. Participants enrolled in the BEACON study (n = 383) completed the Controlled Oral Word Association test (COWAT) and a social support network inventory. Latent class analysis with count variables was used to determine the number of classes of PLWH based on their social network characteristics. The majority of PLWH were male (61.4%) and African American (85.9%). Two distinct latent classes, with a major distinction in the number of network members who were female, knew participants' HIV status and HIV medication usage. Fewer support network members (ß = -.13, p < 0.01), greater negative interactions (ß = -.16, p < 0.01), and less positive interactions with network members (ß = .15, p < 0.05) were significantly associated with lower COWAT scores. Comprehensive screening of high-risk PLWH and early intervention with those with cognitive impairment are important for addressing social support needs.

Exploring Rural-Urban Differences in the Association Between Internet Use and Cognitive Functioning Among Older Adults in China.

OBJECTIVES: We examine rural-urban differences between internet use and cognitive functioning among older Chinese adults and the mediating role of perceived social support networks across rural and urban areas. METHODS: Data were from the 2016 and 2018 waves of the Chinese Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (N = 9,591). Ordinary least squares regression and mediation analyses were used to examine the specific hypotheses. RESULTS: General internet use was significantly associated with improved cognitive functioning among older adults in the overall sample. Social support networks mediated the relationship between general internet use and cognitive functioning, but only for older adults living in rural areas. After disaggregating internet use into specific online activities, watching shows was associated with better cognitive functioning for older adults living in urban areas. For those in rural areas, chatting was positively associated with cognitive functioning, while playing games was negatively associated with cognitive functioning. DISCUSSION: We showed that social support mediates the relationship between internet use and cognitive functioning differently in rural and urban areas. Cognitive benefits derived from specific types of online activities also depend on their residence. These findings suggest that efforts aimed at improving internet use among rural older adults may be more fruitful if they focus on building social opportunities for older adults.

Redes sociales de apoyo formales e informales para la reducción de pobreza del adulto mayor y su familia

Introducción: El aumento en la esperanza de vida se ha convertido en una realidad, en una problemática y en un reto para los países en desarrollo como Colombia, marcado por determinantes sociales dentro de los cuales la población adulta mayor se ve ampliamente afectada. Objetivo: Describir la percepción del adulto mayor y su familia acerca de las redes sociales de apoyo formales e informales, que contribuyen en la reducción de la pobreza. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un estudio cualitativo con enfoque fenomenológico. Participaron 22 adultos mayores, 3 hombres y 19 mujeres entre los 60 y 89 años, dos cuidadores y un empleado administrativo de la institución en Neiva (Huila). Resultados: Los hallazgos se enmarcaron bajo tres cuatro categorías instauradas previa revisión teórica: precepción de envejecimiento, estructura de las redes sociales de apoyo, dinámica familiar y percepción de redes sociales de apoyo; además, se obtuvieron durante el estudio emergieron tres categorías emergentes: la pobreza más allá del concepto económico, entre lo espiritual y emocional como red de apoyo y la resignificación del trabajo en el adulto mayor como una opción. Conclusiones: Los adultos mayores perciben las redes sociales de apoyo formales e informales como necesarias para su bienestar físico, espiritual y emocional, además, identifican la resignificación del trabajo como una opción de vida desde sus capacidades instrumentales, junto con la espiritualidad, la cual se fortalece a lo largo de sus vidas y al interior de sus familias.

Introduction: The increase in life expectancy has become a reality, a problem, and a challenge for developing countries such as Colombia, marked by social determinants in which the elderly population is largely affected. Objective: Describe the perception of older adults and their families regarding formal and informal social support networks that contribute to poverty reduction. Materials and methods: A qualitative study using a phenomenological approach was conducted. Twenty-two older adults, three men and 19 women, between 60 and 89 years old; two caregivers, and an administrative employee at the institution in Neiva (Huila) participated. Results: The findings were framed under four categories established after a theoretical review: perception of aging, structure of social support networks, family dynamics, and perception of social support networks. Three categories emerged during the study: Poverty beyond the economic concept, between the spiritual and emotional as a support network, and the resignification of work in the elderly as an option. Conclusions: Older adults perceive formal and informal social support networks as something necessary for their physical, spiritual, and emotional well-being. In addition, they identify the resignification of work as a life option based on their instrumental capabilities, along with spirituality, which is strengthened throughout their lives and within their families.

An exploration of masculinity, social support and depression in new and experienced fathers.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore the relationship between masculinity, perceived social support and depression symptomology in the postpartum period in new and experienced fathers. DESIGN: Cross-sectional questionnaire study. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 118 first- and second-time fathers (N = 48) of infants aged under 12-months, currently residing in the United Kingdom. MEASUREMENTS AND FINDINGS: Questionnaires consisted of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, the Conformity to Masculine Norms Inventory, and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. Data were analysed through inferential statistics. KEY CONCLUSIONS: Masculine norms of self-reliance and primacy of work were positively related to depression symptomology in both father groups. Perceived social support was negatively related to depression symptomology. Further analyses revealed significant effects regarding partner health status and depression symptomology. No significant differences were found between presentation of first- and second-time fathers. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Main findings support partners as a part of the family unit. Findings have implications for midwives in that an increased understanding of these factors in early fatherhood could improve family outcomes.

Social networks, social support, and life expectancy in older adults: the Cardiovascular Health Study.

BACKGROUND: Social support and social networks have long been postulated to impact health outcomes but their impact on life expectancy and disability in older adults remains poorly quantified. METHODS: As part of the Cardiovascular Health Study, we followed 5,749 adults aged 65 years and older from 4 US field centers for 25 years. We assessed the Lubben social network score [range 0-50] and a social support score [range 0-24] derived from the Interpersonal Support Evaluation List (ISEL-12) in two consecutive years starting at study recruitment. We used remaining years of life (YOL) from study enrollment to death to approximate life expectancy. We defined years of active life (YAL) as the number of study years in which participants lived without any difficulties in activities of daily living. We used compression of disability to reflect the proportion of life lived able (YAL/YOL). We used linear regression to adjust for socio-demographics and comorbidity. RESULTS: The mean (standard deviation [SD]) scores were 32.3 ± 6.8 points for social network score and 8.3 ± 2.4 points for social support score. For every 1-SD increase in social network score, adjusted participant life expectancy was 0.40 years higher (95% CI 0.22-0.58; p<0.0001) and disability-free life expectancy 0.35 years higher (95% CI 0.18-0.53; p<0.0001). The association with life expectancy was modified by participant age (p<0.001), but it remained significant even among participants aged ≥75 years (3 months per SD; 95% CI 0.1-6 months, p = 0.04). Further adjustment for frailty did not attenuate the estimates. The social support scale was not significantly associated with YOL or YAL after adjustment for social network score, and neither measure was associated with compression of disability. DISCUSSION: In older adults, higher social network scores are significantly associated with longer life expectancy and disability-free life expectancy.

Overrepresentation of In-Home, Natural Deaths Among Individuals Treated for Mental Illnesses in New York State.

OBJECTIVE: The authors compared rates of in-home, natural death among individuals receiving treatment for mental illnesses with those in the general population. METHODS: Two data sets were used to determine the prevalence of in-home, natural deaths in the general population and among those receiving treatment for mental illnesses in New York State, outside New York City, for the period 2016-2018. RESULTS: Overall, 37% of natural deaths among individuals receiving mental health treatment occurred in the home, compared with 26% in the general population. Earlier death was also apparent; for example, 26.4% of in-home deaths among those receiving mental health treatment were among those ages 45-54 years, compared with 5.5% in the general population. In-home, natural deaths were also higher among non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic subpopulations. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest a need for programmatic and policy advances to reduce disparities in general health care for those living with mental illnesses. Additional analyses are warranted.

A HOPE Online Community Peer Support Intervention for Help Seeking: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: A 6-week study was conducted to test the effectiveness of the Harnessing Online Peer Education (HOPE) intervention on anxiety, help seeking (requests for electronic resources [e-resources] on anxiety reduction), and online engagement. METHODS: Three hundred participants with moderate to severe anxiety (i.e., seven-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale [GAD-7] scores ≥10) were randomly assigned to social media (i.e., Facebook) groups with or without peer leaders. The study was conducted from April 5 to May 17, 2020. GAD-7 scores, e-resource requests, and online engagement were measured at baseline and at weeks 2, 4, and 6. RESULTS: GAD-7 scores improved in both intervention and control groups, with no difference between conditions. Participants in the intervention group were more likely than those in the control group to request e-resources (OR=10.27, 95% CI=4.52-23.35) and engage online (OR=2.84, 95% CI=1.70-4.76). CONCLUSIONS: The HOPE intervention effectively promoted mental health help-seeking behavior and online engagement.

Improving knowledge, attitudes and beliefs: a cross-sectional study of postpartum depression awareness among social support networks during COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia.

BACKGROUND: Postpartum depression (PPD) is the most prevalent mental health disorder after childbirth, notably during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, PPD is known to have a long-term influence on the mother and the newborn, and the role of social support network is crucial in early illness recognition. This study aims to evaluate the social support networks' level of knowledge, attitudes and beliefs regarding PPD and examine their sociodemographic variables and exposure to the public information relating to PPD during the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted via an online Google Form disseminated to people in Klang Valley through WhatsApp, Email, Facebook, Instagram and other available social media among postpartum women's social support networks aged 18 years and living in the Klang Valley area (N = 394). Data were collected from 1 March to 5 July 2021 and analysed using the Mann-Whitney U-test and generalised linear mixed models. RESULTS: During the COVID-19 epidemic in Klang Valley, most participants had good knowledge, negative attitudes and awareness of PPD. Marital status, gender and parity all had significant correlations with the amount of awareness regarding PPD. Ethnicity, gender, parity and educational level showed significant association with attitude towards PPD. No significant relationship was noted between sociodemographic variables and PPD beliefs. Public awareness of PPD was also associated with knowledge and attitude towards it. CONCLUSIONS: A significant positive knowledge, negative attitude and negative awareness level of PPD exist among social support networks for postnatal women. However, no significant effect of belief on PPD awareness level was noted. IMPLICATIONS: Insight campaigns and public education about PPD should be conducted to enhance postnatal mothers' awareness and knowledge. Postnatal care, mental check-ups and counselling sessions for the new mothers are recommended. In future studies, a closer assessment of postpartum social support, variances and similarities across women from diverse racial/ethnic origins is critical. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS: This cross-sectional study is one of the early studies on the area of PPD in the Malaysian region during COVID-19. Numerous data have been collected using low-cost approaches using self-administered surveys through Google Forms in this research.

Impacto de la pandemia de COVID-19 en cuestiones de género, redes de apoyo social y salud mental: reflexiones y propuestas

Objetivo: El presente artículo analiza las redes de apoyo social y el efecto que pueden tener como soporte de la salud mental, el bienestar y estabilidad emocional de las mujeres durante la pandemia, subrayando sus dimensiones individuales, familiar y colectiva. Método: El enfoque metodológico de investigación que sigue es de tipo cualitativo desde la perspectiva explicativa del método bibliográfico, es decir, en un estudio y análisis sistemático y crítico a propósito de la crisis de salud producida por el virus COVID-19 y el conjunto de medidas políticas, económicas y sociosanitarias impuestas por los gobiernos a nivel latinoamericano. Discusión y conclusiones : El análisis realizado dirige a entender la situación actual de precariedad y vulnerabilidad en la que se encuentran diversos grupos de mujeres, lo que resalta la vital importancia de las redes de apoyo social en su situación presente y futura.

Objective: This article analyzes the social support networks and the effect they can have in support of the mental health, well-being and emotional stability of women during the pandemic, highlighting their individual, family and collective dimensions. Method: The methodological approach that follows is qualitative from the explanatory perspective of the bibliographic method, that is, in a systematic and critical study and analysis of the health crisis caused by the COVID-19 virus and the set of political measures, economic and social health imposed by governments worldwide. Discussion and conclusions: The analysis achieved leads to understanding the current situation of precariousness and vulnerability in which various groups of women find themselves, which highlights the vital importance of social support networks in their present and future situation.

Objetivo: este artigo analisa as redes de apoio social e os efeitos que podem ter no apoio à saúde mental, bem-estar e estabilidade emocional das mulheres durante a pandemia, destacando suas dimensões individual, familiar e coletiva. Método: A abordagem metodológica da pesquisa que se segue é qualitativa do ponto de vista explicativo do método bibliográfico, ou seja, em um estudo sistemático e crítico e na análise da crise de saúde produzida pelo vírus COVID-19 e do conjunto de aspectos políticos, econômicos e sociais. medidas de saúde impostas por governos em nível latino-americano. Discussão e conclusões: A análise realizada permite compreender a situação atual de precariedade e vulnerabilidade em que se encontram vários grupos de mulheres, o que evidencia a importância vital das redes sociais de apoio na sua situação presente e futura.

Impacto de la pandemia de COVID-19 en cuestiones de género, redes de apoyo social y salud mental: reflexiones y propuestas / mpact of the COVID-19 pandemic on gender, social support networks and mental health issues: reflections and proposals / Impacto da pandemia COVID-19 sobre questões de gênero, redes sociais de apoio e saúde mental: reflexões e propostas

OBJETIVO: el presente artículo analiza las redes de apoyo social y el efecto que pueden tener como soporte de la salud mental, el bienestar y estabilidad emocional de las mujeres durante la pandemia, subrayando sus dimensiones individuales, familiar y colectiva. MÉTODO: el enfoque metodológico de investigación que sigue es de tipo cualitativo desde la perspectiva explicativa del método bibliográfico, es decir, en un estudio y análisis sistemático y crítico a propósito de la crisis de salud producida por el virus COVID-19 y el conjunto de medidas políticas, económicas y sociosanitarias impuestas por los gobiernos a nivel latinoamericano. DISCUSIÓN Y CONCLUSIONES: el análisis realizado dirige a entender la situación actual de precariedad y vulnerabilidad en la que se encuentran diversos grupos de mujeres, lo que resalta la vital importancia de las redes de apoyo social en su situación presente y futura.

OBJETIVE: this article analyzes the social support networks and the effect they can have in support of the mental health, well-being and emotional stability of women during the pandemic, highlighting their individual, family and collective dimensions. METHOD: the methodological approach that follows is qualitative from the explanatory perspective of the bibliographic method, that is, in a systematic and critical study and analysis of the health crisis caused by the COVID-19 virus and the set of political measures, economic and social health imposed by governments worldwide. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: the analysis achieved leads to understanding the current situation of precariousness and vulnerability in which various groups of women find themselves, which highlights the vital importance of social support networks in their present and future situation.

OBJETIVO: este artigo analisa as redes de apoio social e os efeitos que podem ter no apoio à saúde mental, bem-estar e estabilidade emocional das mulheres durante a pandemia, destacando suas dimensões individual, familiar e coletiva. MÉTODO: a abordagem metodológica da pesquisa que se segue é qualitativa do ponto de vista explicativo do método bibliográfico, ou seja, em um estudo sistemático e crítico e na análise da crise de saúde produzida pelo vírus COVID-19 e do conjunto de aspectos políticos, econômicos e sociais. medidas de saúde impostas por governos em nível latino-americano. DISCUSSÃO E CONCLUSÕES: a análise realizada permite compreender a situação atual de precariedade e vulnerabilidade em que se encontram vários grupos de mulheres, o que evidencia a importância vital das redes sociais de apoio na sua situação presente e futura.

Family Conflict Non-negotiation and HIV Disclosure Associated With ART Adherence in a Disadvantaged Population.

Adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is vital for reducing racial and gender disparities in morbidity and mortality among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH). Little research attention has been given to aspects of family functioning affecting ART adherence among PLWH vulnerable to disparities. Data were from n = 313 participants (93% African American) in the BEACON study, which recruited injection-drug-using PLWH on ART. Using factor analysis and longitudinal structural equation modeling, we found that current substance use and negative family conflict tactics (i.e., non-negotiation) predicted PLWH's lower probability of ART adherence at 12-month follow-up; and greater HIV disclosure to support network members predicted a higher probability of adherence. These findings suggest the importance of family and other support network members in this vulnerable population's ART adherence. Social network-focused interventions promoting prosocial response to conflict and negotiation skills are important for improving vulnerable PLWH's HIV outcomes and reducing health disparities.

Manifestaciones de la resiliencia psicológica en atletas de alto rendimiento

La presente investigación se fundamentó en las teorías que exploran la resiliencia en el ámbito de la Psicología del Deporte, se planteó como objetivo analizar la manifestación de la resiliencia psicológica en atletas cubanos de alto rendimiento, específicamente en la exdeportista corredora de 800 metros Ana Fidelia Quiroz Moret y en deportistas de la categoría Juvenil y Mayores del equipo nacional de tenis de Mesa de Cuba. Se utilizaron métodos de investigación con predominio de la metodología cualitativa analítica como estudios de caso individual y de grupo, análisis-síntesis, entrevista, análisis de documentos y videos, observación, el cuestionario de Afrontamiento de estrés de Sandín y Chorot y la escala de Resiliencia de Wagnild y Young. Se utilizó el porcentaje como método matemático. Los resultados principales permitieron constatar la presencia de nivel alto de resiliencia en la exdeportista estudiada y niveles medio-alto y alto en los tenimesistas estudiados, se identificaron los factores protectores que influyen en el afrontamiento de eventos vitales y situaciones estresantes. Las conclusiones principales destacaron la necesidad de valorar en los deportistas de alto rendimiento estudiados, las manifestaciones de la resiliencia psicológica de manera particular: los factores protectores de la personalidad, la influencia de las redes de apoyo social así como las estrategias y estilos de afrontamiento al estrés que afloran ante situaciones adversas que se presentan en la vida deportiva, dificultades propias del entrenamiento y la competencia a las que se enfrentan con regularidad, que pueden constituir modelos a tener en cuenta para otros deportistas que se inician.

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi analisar a manifestação da resiliência psicológica em atletas cubanos de alto rendimento, especificamente na ex-corredora Ana Fidelia Quiroz Moret, de 800m, e em atletas da seleção nacional cubana de tênis de mesa, nas categorias jovem e sênior. Foram utilizados métodos de pesquisa com predominância de metodologia analítica qualitativa, como estudos de casos individuais e de grupo, análise-síntese, entrevista, análise de documentos e vídeos, observação, o questionário de Cópia de Estresse de Sandin e Chorot e a escala de Resiliência de Wagnild e Young. A porcentagem foi utilizada como um método matemático. Os principais resultados mostraram a presença de um alto nível de resiliência na ex-esportista estudada e níveis médios-altos e altos nos tenistas estudados. Os fatores de proteção que influenciam o enfrentamento de eventos da vida e situações estressantes foram identificados. As principais conclusões destacaram a necessidade de avaliar nos atletas de alto rendimento estudados, as manifestações de resiliência psicológica em particular: os fatores protetores da personalidade, a influência das redes de apoio social, assim como as estratégias e estilos de lidar com o estresse que surgem em situações adversas que surgem na vida esportiva, as dificuldades de treinamento e competição que enfrentam regularmente, que podem constituir modelos a serem levados em conta para outros atletas que estão começando.

The present research was based on the theories that explore resilience in the field of Sport Psychology. The objective was to analyze the manifestation of psychological resilience in Cuban high-performance athletes, specifically in the former 800-meter runner Ana Fidelia Quiroz Moret and in athletes of the Cuban national Table Tennis team in the Juvenile and Senior categories. Research methods were used with a predominance of analytical qualitative methodology such as individual and group case studies, analysis-synthesis, interview, analysis of documents and videos, observation, the Stress Coping questionnaire of Sandin and Chorot and the Resilience scale of Wagnild and Young. The percentage was used as a mathematical method. The main results showed the presence of a high level of resilience in the ex-sportswoman studied and medium-high and high levels in the tennis players studied. The main conclusions highlighted the need to assess in the high performance athletes studied, the manifestations of psychological resilience in particular: the protective factors of the personality, the influence of social support networks as well as the strategies and styles of coping with stress that emerge in adverse situations that arise in sports life, difficulties of training and competition that they face regularly, which may constitute models to be taken into account for other athletes who are starting out.

Estratégias resilientes de jogadores de futebol profissional atuantes no estado do Ceará / Resilient strategies of professional soccer players acting in the state of Ceará / Estrategias resistentes de jugadores de fútbol profesionales que actúan en el estado de Ceará

Esta pesquisa objetiva investigar a existência de comportamentos resilientes em jogadores de futebol profissional atuantes no estado do Ceará, bem como identificar estratégias de enfrentamento e redes de apoio social dos jogadores. O estudo é fruto de uma pesquisa descritiva exploratória, qualitativa, na qual foram entrevistados dez jogadores de futebol vinculados a clubes cearenses, entre 18 e 38 anos, nascidos no estado ou não. Para contatá-los foi utilizado as redes sociais, o método bola de neve e o auxílio das assessorias esportivas. Devido a pandemia, a coleta de dados ocorreu de forma online e estes foram analisados através de uma análise de conteúdo. Os resultados mostraram que os jogadores entrevistados são munidos de características da personalidade resiliente, tais como: crença em seu próprio potencial, o diálogo com pessoas de confiança, a religiosidade, as motivações individuais e o foco nos objetivos, e possuem uma forte rede de apoio social. Pôde-se concluir que os jogadores detêm um alto nível de resiliência, utilizando-se destas estratégias para superarem as dificuldades e se fortalecerem. Evidenciou-se que na percepção dos jogadores a atuação do psicólogo no esporte é crucial.

This research aims to analyze whether there is resilience in professional soccer players working in the state of Ceará, describe the resilient strategies used and identify whether players have a social support network. The study is the result of an exploratory, qualitative descriptive research, in which ten football players linked to Ceará clubs, between 18 and 38 years old, born in the state or not, were interviewed. To contact them, social networks, the snowball method and the help of sports advisors were used. Due to the pandemic, data collection took place online and these were analyzed through content analysis. The results showed that the interviewed players are equipped with resilient personality characteristics, such as: belief in their own potential, dialogue with trusted people, religiosity, individual motivations and focus on goals, and have a strong support network. Social. It can be concluded that players have a high level of resilience, using these strategies to overcome difficulties and strengthen themselves. It was evidenced that in the perception of the players the role of the psychologist in the sport is crucial.

Esta investigación tiene como objetivo analizar si existe resiliencia en futbolistas profesionales que actúan en el estado de Ceará, describir las estrategias resilientes utilizadas e identificar si los jugadores cuentan con una red de apoyo social. El estudio es resultado de una investigación cualitativa descriptiva, exploratoria, en la que fueron entrevistados diez futbolistas vinculados a clubes de Ceará, entre 18 y 38 años, nacidos en el estado o no. Para contactarlos se utilizaron las redes sociales, el método bola de nieve y la ayuda de asesores deportivos. Debido a la pandemia, la recolección de datos se realizó en línea y estos fueron analizados a través del análisis de contenido. Los resultados mostraron que los jugadores entrevistados están dotados de características de personalidad resilientes, tales como: creencia en su propio potencial, diálogo con personas de confianza, religiosidad, motivaciones individuales y enfoque en objetivos, y cuentan con una fuerte red de apoyo social. Se puede concluir que los jugadores tienen un alto nivel de resiliencia, utilizando estas estrategias para superar las dificultades y fortalecerse. Se evidenció que en la percepción de los jugadores el papel del psicólogo en el deporte es crucial.

Precarious Employment and Chronic Stress: Do Social Support Networks Matter?

Precarious employment has been identified as a potentially damaging stressor. Conversely, social support networks have a well-known protective effect on health and well-being. The ways in which precariousness and social support may interact have scarcely been studied with respect to either perceived stress or objective stress biomarkers. This research aims to fill this gap by means of a cross-sectional study based on a non-probability quota sample of 250 workers aged 25-60 in Barcelona, Spain. Fieldwork was carried out between May 2019 and January 2020. Employment precariousness, perceived social support and stress levels were measured by means of scales, while individual steroid profiles capturing the chronic stress suffered over a period of a month were obtained from hair samples using a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry methodology. As for perceived stress, analysis indicates that a reverse buffering effect exists (interaction B = 0.22, p = 0.014). Steroid biomarkers are unrelated to social support, while association with precariousness is weak and only reaches significance at p < 0.05 in the case of women and 20ß dihydrocortisone metabolites. These results suggest that social support can have negative effects on the relationship between perceived health and an emerging stressful condition like precariousness, while its association with physiological measures of stress remains uncertain.

Impact of COVID-19 on Peer Support Specialists in the United States: Findings From a Cross-Sectional Online Survey.

OBJECTIVE: Peer support specialists (PSS) are an integral part of the mental health workforce. The purpose of this study was to better understand how the COVID-19 pandemic affected their employment status and day-to-day work. METHODS: A cross-sectional, online survey was conducted (May-June 2020). Recruitment occurred through the National Association of Peer Specialists and additional snowball sampling. Closed- and open-ended questions sought information about employment status, work tasks, challenges faced by PSS and by individuals they supported, and positive impacts they experienced. RESULTS: A total of 1,280 surveys were analyzed. Nine percent of respondents reported having lost their job as a result of COVID-19. Of these, 65% reported a length of employment of 2 or more years, and 61% reported working 35 hours or less per week. Job tasks changed dramatically, with 73% reporting engagement in new tasks, including increased reliance on technology (N=717), increased coordination of resources (N=123), and COVID-19-related tasks (N=142). Engagement in some support tasks decreased significantly from prepandemic levels, including individual support provision (p<0.001) and group facilitation (p<0.001). Respondents reported significant challenges among individuals they supported, including increased isolation (92%), substance use (67%), housing instability (38%), and food insecurity (64%). Although respondents also reported challenges, satisfaction with organizational and supervisory support was high. Most respondents (73%) reported positive impacts or benefits from the pandemic. CONCLUSIONS: The changing roles and tasks identified in this study have implications for hiring, training, supervising, and supporting peer staff. The peer workforce demonstrated flexibility and commitment to meeting increasing needs.

Caregiver role strain in caring for vulnerable persons living with HIV: correlates of caregiver and care recipient reports.

Informal care of family and friends is important for the health and well-being of disadvantaged persons living with HIV (PLWH). Caregiver role strain may threaten the function and continuity of their main relationships and their health impacts. Data were from a disadvantaged, primarily African American, sample of PLWH care recipients. Caregiver role strain was operationalized as a latent factor measured by variables including PLWH's perceptions of their caregiver not wanting or complaining about helping them or wanting a break. We found that greater caregiver role strain was associated with higher levels of HIV-related stigma and depressive symptoms. Lower role strain was associated with more collaborative problem solving and shared medical treatment decision-making. Caregiver role strain was linked to disadvantaged PLWHs' worse stigma and mental health; collaborative engagement in care and coping assistance were protective of role strain. Caregiving relationship-focused research and interventions are needed for resourcing and sustaining disadvantaged African American communities' caregiving and health.

Contribuição da terapia ocupacional para a organização da rotina de mulheres submetidas a tratamento cirúrgico para câncer de mama: um enfoque nas Atividades Instrumentais de Vida Diária (AIVD) / Contribution of occupational therapy to the organization of the routine of women submitted to surgical treatment for breast cancer: a focus on Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL)

Resumo Introdução Mastectomia radical modificada e quadrantectomia são os principais tratamentos cirúrgicos para o câncer de mama; no entanto, podem ocasionar desordens físicas, mentais, sociais e ocupacionais à paciente e sua rede de apoio. Objetivo Analisar o efeito de orientações terapêuticas ocupacionais pré-cirúrgicas na rede de apoio de mulheres submetidas à cirurgia para tratamento de câncer de mama para organizar sua rotina pós-cirúrgica com foco nas Atividades Instrumentais de Vida Diária (AIVD). Método Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo, descritivo-exploratório e longitudinal realizado com 14 mulheres diagnosticadas com câncer de mama e indicadas à cirurgia eletiva, consistindo em orientações personalizadas a sua rede de apoio. Os dados foram coletados em dois momentos: pré- e pós-cirúrgico (após 30 dias) por meio de entrevista semiestruturada via videoconferência gravada e explorados por análise de conteúdo. Resultados As principais orientações fornecidas aos familiares incluíam estratégias para adaptação, graduação e delegação das atividades mais significativas para as participantes. Os achados da pesquisa foram divididos nas seguintes categorias: Família como rede de apoio e o processo de recuperação; Desafios do cuidado; Retorno ao desempenho das AIVD; Segurança da integridade física e emocional; e O terapeuta ocupacional como rede de apoio. As participantes destacaram a relevância do estudo e anseio por ampla cobertura assistencial da terapia ocupacional. Conclusão Os achados sugerem eficácia nas intervenções voltadas à organização da rotina de mulheres mastectomizadas a partir da instrumentalização da rede de apoio para o cuidado colaborativo.

Abstract Introduction Modified radical mastectomy and quadrantectomy are the main surgical treatments for breast cancer; however, they can cause physical, mental, social and occupational disorders to the patient and her support network. Objective To analyze the effect of preoperative occupational therapeutic guidance on the support network of women undergoing breast cancer surgery aiming to organize their postoperative routine with a focus on Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL). Method This is a qualitative, descriptive-exploratory, longitudinal study conducted with 14 women diagnosed with breast cancer and referred to elective surgery, consisting of personalized guidance to their support network. Data were collected at two moments: pre- and post-operatively (30 days after surgery) through recorded semi-structured interviews via videoconference, and explored by content analysis. Results The main guidance provided to family members consisted of strategies for adaptation, grading, and delegating of the activities most significant to the participants. The findings were divided into the following categories: Family as a support network and the recovery process; Care challenges; Resuming IADL performance; Assurance of physical and emotional integrity; The occupational therapist as a support network. The participants highlighted the relevance of the study and their desire for broad Occupational Therapy assistance coverage. Conclusion The findings suggest the efficacy of interventions aimed at the routine organization of women who have undergone mastectomy based on the instrumentalization of their support network for collaborative care.

Relações sociais e redes de apoio na adolescência: experiências mediadas pela música / Social relations and support networks in adolescence: reporting mediated experiences by music / Relaciones sociales y redes de apoyo en la adolescencia: relatando experiencias mediadas por la música

O presente artigo resulta de uma pesquisa intervenção de cunho qualitativo, realizada com quinze adolescentes de uma instituição localizada litoral norte de Santa Catarina. Para coleta de dados foram realizadas oficinas musicais, nas quais os participantes escolheram letras de músicas para abordar questões a respeito de sua condição de vida, discorrendo sobre o território onde vivem, a percepção que têm de si e do tempo e sobre as suas redes sociais de apoio. Em um corte temático para efeitos deste artigo, as redes sociais de apoio foram eleitas como a temática a ser analisada e discutida por meio da análise temático-categorial. Os resultados apontaram para um espaço escolar com uma função indefinida, pautado na contestação das regras e normas que são impostas, onde ocorrem brincadeiras e intrigas. Quanto à rede de amigos, observou-se que essa relação é baseada nos sentimentos de confiança e de lealdade, se configurando como uma rede essencial nesse ciclo da vida, assim como a família que se apresenta como um fator de proteção, mesmo perpassando situações conflituosas, de violência, mortes e separações.(AU)

The proposal of this paper is a result from a qualitative intervention research conducted with fifteen teenagers from an institution located north coast of Santa Catarina. For data collection, music workshops were made and the participants chose music lyrics that address questions about their life condition, talking about the place where they live, their perception of themselves, their perception of the time and of the social support networks. In a cutting theme for the proposes of this article, the social support networks were chosen as the theme to be analyzed and discussed by thematic-categorical analysis. The results pointed to a school area with an undefined function, based on the contestation of the rules and regulations that are imposed, where the games and intrigues happen. Referring to the friends network, observed that this relation is based on feelings of trust and loyalty, setting up as a essential network in the life cycle, as well as the family that presents itself as a protective factor, even through conflict situations , violence, deaths an separations.(AU)

El presente artículo es el resultado de una investigación de intervención con enfoque cualitativo, realizada con quince adolescentes de una institución localizada en litoral norte de Santa Catarina. Para la coleta de dados fueron realizados talleres musicales, en los cuales los miembros preferirán letras de canciones que enfoquen cuestiones con respecto a su condición de vida, disertando sobre los lugares donde viven, la percepción que tienen de sí propio, del tiempo y sus redes de apoyo social. En un tema de corte para los efectos de este artículo, se eligieron las redes de apoyo social como el tema para ser analizado y debatido por el análisis de temáticas-categóricas. Los resultados apuntaron para un espacio escolar con una función indefinida, pautado en la contestación de las reglas y normas que son impuestas, donde hay juegos y chismes. Cuanto a la rede de amistades, se ha observado que esta relación se basa en los sentimientos de confianza y de lealtad, se perfila como una red esencial en el ciclo de vida, así como la familia es presentada como un factor de protección, incluso impregna situaciones contradictorias, con violencia, muertes y separaciones.(AU)