Search

Aim Method Results Conclusion To explore perceived expressed emotion in the south Asian context for individuals with a first episode of psychosis (FEP).Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 16 service users experiencing a FEP to understand their experience of expressed emotion (EE) from their caregivers. Interviews were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.Four main categories were identified: connection and support, understanding and awareness, boundaries and independence and context and influence. Factors influencing perceived expressed emotion such as acceptance, acculturation, warmth and expressions of love, communication and family values were identified. Findings highlight south Asian's experiences of being cared for, and their perception of EE, including warmth and connection as a strength and resource.The findings shed light on culturally specific EE within the context of FEP that can be considered when working with south Asian communities within early intervention services. Findings highlight the impact of navigating and negotiating bicultural identities and generational differences in EE in the British south Asian context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies characterizing Orthostatic Intolerance (OI) have primarily focused on a specific subtype (e.g., Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, POTS) treated in tertiary care, yet many with impairing symptoms do not meet subtype criteria. Study 1 used structured coding of electronic medical records to explore symptoms and impairment among 226 youth with OI in a common care setting (outpatient cardiology) over a 1-year period. Impairment was evident for 54.7% of youth. Greater impairment was associated with female gender, higher number and frequency of symptoms, and specific symptoms of headache, weakness, or exercise intolerance. Study 2 examined symptoms, functional disability, and treatment interest in a subset of youth from Study 1 (n = 75); data were collected 1–2 years after initial visit via phone interview. Fifty-six percent of participants remained symptomatic, with mean disability exceeding "substantial impairment" and most (78.6%) expressing desire for treatment. Greater disability was associated with more symptoms and the symptom of weakness. Critically, disability was more than twice as high among racial and ethnic minority youth. Results suggest that OI impairment is common among youth in secondary care, and many experience symptoms warranting treatment 1–2 years later. Future studies should identify sources of health disparities and develop efficacious treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: 'Expressed Emotion (EE)' captures ways in which emotions are expressed within a family environment. Research has found that EE in families has an impact on psychiatric illness, in particular psychosis, such that it increases risk of relapse. EE was conceptualised by research conducted in the UK. Thus, behaviours defined as pathological were largely based on white samples adhering to UK norms. Cross-cultural variations have been found in EE and its relationship with clinical outcomes. A more culturally appropriate understanding of norms surrounding the EE across cultures is required. Aims: This study aims to use a bottom-up approach to provide a culturally specific understanding of family relationships and EE across 'non-clinical' UK-based South Asian families. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 South Asian participants to explore their relationships with a significant other. Interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Four main themes were generated: expression of love, setting boundaries, inter-generational differences and acceptance. Conclusion: The findings indicate considerable cultural variability within EE and highlight the need to interpret EE in the context of socio-cultural norms. Whilst certain domains of EE that are considered pathological in Western contexts are present in the UK-based South Asian diaspora, these are perceived as less problematic, indicative of varying cultural norms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emergency departments (ED) provide psychiatric assessments to approximately 4000 youth annually. While most are discharged home, they are not without risk. To improve safety, this study examined the distribution of medication lock bags (MLB) to caregivers of youth discharged following an emergency evaluation. The objective was to evaluate caregiver attitudes and behaviors related to the bag and perceptions of whether the MLB enhanced their youth's safety. MLB distribution was limited to patients who had presented with recent or current non-suicidal self-injurious behavior, suicidal ideation, or a suicide attempt. Caregivers were contacted for a phone survey and asked components of their MLB experience. Of the 119 caregivers offered the MLB, 114 accepted and 5 declined. Results indicate that caregivers found the most positive aspects of the bag to include the "Bag is Secure" (39%) and "Safety of Child and Family" (31%). Parents found the most negative aspects of using the bag to be "Nothing" (30%) and "Size" (21%). These results suggest most caregivers will accept and use MLBs when it is provided during a psychiatric ED evaluation. Further, data suggests caregivers find the bag to be easy to use and that it provides them with a sense of safety/security. • Pilot medication lock bag (MLB) study for pediatric patients • Most caregivers will accept and use MLBs when it is provided during a psychiatric ED evaluation • Results suggest that parents use the MLB, that they find it to be easy to use, and it gives parents a sense of security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]