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IntroductionThe use of psychotherapy is an important part of treating psychiatric disorders, in combination with medication taking. However, despite its importance, psychotherapy is still underused from individuals with psychiatric problems in Greece.ObjectivesTo examine the use of psychotherapy, among psychiatric outpatients, in the last four years.AimsTo investigate whether there are differences in the use of psychotherapy, in combination with medications, to treat psychiatric disorders, from 2012 to 2015.MethodsIn this study participated 5,551 patients, 2,760 males (49.7%) and 2,791 females (50.3%). The mean age was 45.54. Convenience sampling method was used and participants were recruited from the General Hospital of Nikaia, ‘Ag. Panteleimon’, in Athens, Greece, from 01/01/2012 to 31/12/2015. SPSS software was used to analyse the data.ResultsThere were significant differences between the four years (2012–2015) with regard to the use of psychotherapy, in combination with medications, from psychiatric patients as χ2 (21): 753.057, P < 0.001. More specifically, only 0.1% of psychiatric patients undertook psychotherapy in addition to taking medications, in 2012, and this increased to 2.7%, in 2013, 13.8% in 2014 and 18.6% in 2015.ConclusionsThere was an increase in the use of psychotherapy, in combination with medication taking, during the four last years, from 2012–2015. However, the percentage of patients undertaking both psychotherapy and taking medications is still low. This has important clinical implications as the use of psychotherapy plays a significant role in achieving optimal health outcomes of psychiatric patients.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

BackgroundTreatment adherence has a vital role in the patient's health outcome as poor adherence rates can reduce, even diminish, the effectiveness of the treatment as well as lead to a waste of the health care system's valuable resources. Previous research has shown that perceptions of treatment strongly affect adherence in psychiatric patients.AimTo investigate how the perceptions of treatment affect adherence during hospitalization in psychiatric patients.MethodFifty psychiatric patients participated in this research, 21 (42%) males and 29 (58%) females. Out of them, 25 (50%) had been diagnosed with depression, 15 (30%) with psychosis, 6 (12%) with psychosis and depressive symptomatology and 4 (8%) with bipolar disorder.ResultsThe findings showed a significant effect of psychotherapy on treatment adherence (χ2 = 4.915, P = 0.027), with 7 out of 11 patients who undertook psychotherapy reporting good adherence rates compared to 12 out of 39 patients who did not. Gender had a significant effect on adherence (χ2 = 5.96, P = 0.05), with females reporting better adherence compared to males. Perception of treatment did not correlate significantly with adherence (χ2 = 0.439, P > 0.05) and neither did education (χ2 = 2.22, P > 0.05). Also, neither age (F(2,47) = 1.535, P > 0.05) nor hospitalization time (F(2,47) = 1.131, P > 0.05) correlated significantly with adherence to treatment.ConclusionEven though there was no significant correlation between perceptions of treatment and adherence, psychotherapy seems to improve adherence to therapy during hospitalization and is also correlated with positive perceptions of treatment, something which will be valuable for the patient even after the hospitalization.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

IntroductionDifferences between the most frequently reported diagnoses of Greek people and immigrants in Greece are expected due to the different underlying factors which are associated with mental health issues.ObjectivesExamine differences in diagnoses between Greek people and immigrants.AimsTo investigate whether Greek people and immigrants had significant differences with regard to reported diagnoses in a Greek hospital.MethodsThe patients who participated in this study are 5551, among them 2760 (49.7%) were males and 2791 (50.3%) were females. The mean age of the sample was 45.54. The sample consisted of 455 (8.3%) immigrants and 5,042 (91.7%) Greek people. Convenience sampling method was used and the sample was collected at the General Hospital of Nikaia, “Ag. Panteleimon” in Athens, Greece, between 01/01/2012 and 31/12/2015.ResultsThere were significant differences between Greek people and immigrant with regard to diagnosis as χ2 (20): 136.875, P < 0.001. More specifically, among Greek people, the most frequently reported diagnosis was psychotic disorder (26.2%), followed by depression (24.7%), general anxiety disorder (9.9%) and substance abuse (8.4%). Among immigrants, the most frequently reported diagnosis was psychotic disorder (22.9%), followed by substance abuse (21.3%), depression (17.4%) and general anxiety disorder (12.1%).ConclusionsThe differences between Greek people and immigrants with regard to diagnoses showcase the different needs between the two populations with regard to mental health. Especially, the higher prevalence of anxiety disorders and substance abuse problems among immigrants highlight the need for protective measures to improve their well-being and reduce their risk of mental health issues.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

IntroductionAccording to previous literature, there are important differences, based on gender, on the external factors that affect psychiatric visits of individuals. Females are, in general, more likely to report being affected by family and emotional issues whilst men are less likely to do so.ObjectivesTo examine gender differences in external factors affecting psychiatric visits.AimsTo investigate whether females report different external factors, which impact on the decision to visit a psychiatrist, compared to males.MethodsIn this study, there were 1205 participants, out of them 685 were males (56.8%) and 520 females (43.2%). The mean age was 45.54. Convenience sampling method was used and participants were recruited from the general hospital of Nikaia, “Ag. Panteleimon”, in Athens, Greece, from 01/01/2012 to 31/12/2015. The data were analysed through the SPSS software.ResultsThere were significant gender differences in external factors reported for psychiatric visits, as Chi2 (8): 185.608, P < 0.001. More specifically, more women reported being affected by family problems (5.5%) compared to men (2.6%). Additionally, more females reported being affected by emotional issues (7%) compared to men (5.6%) and psychological issues were more important for women (13.9%) compared to men (7.5%), as well. However, more men reported addictions as the external factors impacting on psychiatric visits (23.1%) compared to women (6.6%).ConclusionsThere are significant differences in the external factors affecting psychiatric visits between men and women. Further investigating such differences could help us better understand the reasons affecting the individuals’ decision to seek psychiatric help.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

IntroductionStudies have shown that sport participation is connected with a more positive self-image and higher self-esteem in adolescents (Bowkers, 2006, Kirkcaldy et al., 2002), whereas sedentary behavior is associated with negative mental health characteristics (Primack et al., 2009).PurposeThe aim of this study was to investigate whether physical activity influences adolescents and young people's emotions, self-esteem and generally mental health.MaterialQuestionnaires were redacted by the research team investigating participants’ habits, emotions and health benefits concerning physical activities.MethodQuestionnaires were administered to 150 adolescents, aged 18–20 years old in Technological Educational Institutes, colleges and fitness centers in Patras, Southern Greece during 2015's spring.ResultsEighty-seven percent of the respondents worked out in fitness centers or in natural environment. Most of them answered that exercise contributed to revitalization and euphoria feelings (63%), stress relief (78%), better self-image, and better health (49%). According to 63% of the adolescents, exercise improved their school performance and 61% of them felt that exercise affected positively mental health.ConclusionsPresent study's results underline physical activities’ benefits in students’ mental health, self-esteem, feelings and school performance being in line with other studies’ results [Biddle et Asare (2011), Ekeland et al. (2005), Brown et al. (2013)]. Restrictions refer mainly to small size sample.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

BackgroundPatients with mental health disorders usually suffer from high stress levels. Trigger points therapy has been shown to be very effective in providing prompt relief from stress in these patients.AimTo investigate the effect of the combined use of relaxation techniques and trigger points therapy on stress levels of patients with mental health disorders.MethodThirty-one patients participated in this study, 14 (45.2%) males and 17 (54.8%) females, with a mean age of 39. Out of them, 10 (32.3%) suffered from anxiety disorders, 6 (19.4%) from obsessive compulsive disorder, 10 (32.3%) from depression and 5 (16.1%) from chronic condition stress. Data analysis was conducted with t-test analysis and ANOVA, using the SPSS software.ResultsThe findings revealed significant differences on stress levels before and after the use of relaxation techniques and trigger points therapy as t(30) = 18.316, P < 0.0001. Before the use of relaxation techniques and trigger points therapy, individuals reported higher stress levels (M = 6.129, SD = 1.087) compared to after the therapy (M = 1.741, SD = .889). Moreover, significant differences were found in stress reduction with regard to psychiatric illnesses (F(3,27) = 5.027, P = 0.007). More specifically, individuals with depression reported lower reductions in their stress levels after the therapy compared to both those with chronic condition stress (M = –2.1, SD = 0.61, P = 0.013) and anxiety disorders (M = –1.4, SD = 0.503, P = 0.05).ConclusionThe findings of this study highlight the importance of using trigger points therapy, combined with relaxation techniques, to reduce stress levels of patients with mental health disorders.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

BackgroundThe term Pseudodementia, as presented by Kiloh, is being used to describe the clinical image characterized by depression combined with impairment in cognitive functions which reacts positively in treatment with antidepressants.AimTo explore the aspects that make this condition unique, so that mental health professional will be able to use the proper psychometric tools when they face patients with confusing symptoms.MethodHundred and thirty-one participants were recruited from the B’ Psychiatric Clinic of G.H.N.P “Agios Panteleimon” and Day Center of Alzheimer's Disease in Amarousion, with 56 (42.7%) males and 75 (57.3%) females. All participants were administered the MoCA and the DASS21 questionnaires. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS21.ResultsThe findings reported a significant difference in the scores of MoCA done by patients with dementia (M = 13.9, SD = 5.4) and patients with depression (M = 20.5, SD = 4.9) while both groups scored below the accepted scores indicating cognitive impairment [CI]. However, analysis showed that in the following sectors of MoCA, depressive patients scored significantly higher than demented ones: visuospatial (MD = 0.651), clock (MD = 1.288), orientation (MD = 1.212) and delayed recall (MD = 1.329).ConclusionFindings shows a significant pattern in the difference between depressed and patients with cognitive impairment. These findings suggest that mental health professionals should use neuropsychological measurements like MoCA when evaluating such cases in order to be able to diagnose effectively cases of pseudodementia.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

BackgroundSocial interactions have an important effect on the subjective well-being of individuals. However, in periods of financial crisis these interactions are reduced, affecting thus the mental health of the individuals as well.AimTo investigate the effect of the reduction in social interactions, as a result of the economic crisis, on the subjective well-being of non-insurance health care seekers in Greece.MethodTwo hundred and sixty-six individuals participated in this study, 90 (35.6%) males and 163 (64.4%) females, with a mean age of 47. Analysis of data was conducted with Anova, using the SPSS software.ResultsThe findings showed that reductions in social interactions, caused by the financial crisis, led to significant reductions in the subjective well-being of individuals as well (F(1.259) = 13.276, P < 0.001 for social activities and F(1,258) = 14.531, P < 0.001 for peer socialization). More specifically, individuals whose social interactions were greatly affected by the financial crisis reported significantly lower subjective well-being than individuals who reported a medium effect (M = −2.952, SD = .764, P < 0.001). Furthermore, individuals who reported that the economic crisis had a great effect on their peer socialization reported significantly lower subjective well-being compared to both those who reported a medium (M = −1.868, SD = .658, P < 0.015) or low (M = −2.77, SD = .809, P < 0.001) effect of the crisis.ConclusionThe results of this research showed that the financial crisis reduced the well-being of affected individuals through reductions in their social interactions. Further research is needed to investigate appropriate interventions to reduce the negative impact that the financial crisis has on the well-being of affected individuals.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.

Introduction Death has always been a part of Greek culture and loss was treated among family and friends. This is something that recently has changed and more people are seeking psychological help when they experience loss. Aim of this study was to explore demographic differences in individuals referring for psychological help after loss. Method 113 individuals between 2010 and 2014 participated in the study. Chi-Square Test was used in order to evaluate significant differences among the sample variables with SPSS 21. Results 40(35,4%) males and 73(64,6%) females between 11 and 79 years old (M= 44,1 ±14,3). 73(64,6%) had just lost a close relative, 29(25,7%) in the last month, 9(8%) had preparatory grief while 2(1,8%) were about to lost a loved one. 25(21,2%) were refereed from the nursing staff, 60(53,1%) from the emergency room while the rest w ere refereed from the rest of the clinics. There was a statistical significant difference between the department of referee and the kind of treatment(x 2 =25,863 p=,001) with the majority of nurses referring for CISM(66,7%) while the clinics for support(73,1%). There was also a significant difference between gender and treatment(x 2 =11,675 p=,02) with women receiving support for children, husband and parents while men for siblings and friends. There was no significant difference between age and gender or between diagnose and relationship with the diseased. Conclusions It seems that women are seeking more easily help than men w hen they encounter loss while men are still accepting help in the form of CISM and are avoiding counseling.

Introduction Social support networks, with greater support from families, friends and communities are linked to better health. Also, due to the present economic condition they might be the only solution for rehabilitation in patients with lower income. Aim: To investigate the way that social support network can help patients with rehabilitation after hospitalization. Method All patients that were referred to the social workers network from 2012-2013 were assessed in order to find those who seek rehabilitation programmes. Analysis was performed with SPSS21. Results 143 patients, 100(69.9%) males, 81(71.7%) with lower education were referred for rehabilitation and poverty reasons. 117(81.8%) were Greeks 75(52.4%) single, 99(69.2%) had no insurance and 125(87.4%) unemployed. The referrals were made mostly from social hospices (N=71) and the hospital clinics(N=59), while the amount of patients was almost identical for the two years(47.6% for 2013 and 50.4% for 2012 respectively). The main reason for the referral was poverty(N=117 81.8%), poverty and health problems(N=22 18.4%), psychiatric problems(N=2 1.4%) and HIV(N=2 1.4%). In the majority of the cases(N=106 74.1%) there was a successful result in finding a rehabilitation hospice. Finally, there was a statistical significant difference between those that had family-support(N=47) and those that didn't(N=96) in the referrals amount (x2=10.894 p=.02). Conclusions Results indicates that family is a protective factor against social support need, but due to the economic condition and new family bonds, a growing number of people still needing help, even if they have a family that could support them, something that should be further investigated.

Introduction Economic crisis(EC) has a great impact in the life of people dealing with it. Especially chronic patients like psychiatric ones, have additional difficulties since they must pay for medication and sometimes stay unemployed due to their health condition. Aim To investigate the possible effect of the current economical condition in Greece in psychiatric patients. Method 71 psychiatric inpatients participated in the study, 23(32.4%) males and 48(67.6%) females, with a mean age of 48.2±13.1. Data were analyzed with T-test, Anova and chisquare with the use of SPSS. Results The majority of the sample were affected from the EC a lot (N=49(69%)), and moderate (N=11(15.5%) and only 12.7%(N=9) felt that they were unaffected since 25% had no reduction in their income while 75% had a reduction from 1-more than 1000 Euros/month. A positive result was that only 15,6% had to alter their medication since psychiatric patients are still covered from insurance policy. There was no difference between males and females in the effect of economic crisis(x2=.891 p=NS) income reduction(x2=.975 p=NS) and medication alteration due to low income (x2=1.689 p=NS). Anova revealed significant differences between income reduction and coping with medication(F=7.761 df=3.54 p=.001) between patients that had no income reduction(3.1±1.8) and all the other categories, more than 1000e reduction(1.2±1.2 p=.006), 500-1000e reductions (0.9±1.3 p=.001) and 1-500e reduction (1.4±1.1 p=.03). Conclusions Our results indicate that even though medication is still covered from insurance plan there is a negative impact of income reduction in the way that patients cope with their medication needs.

Introduction Fatigue is of great clinical and investigational importance. It is a prevalent symptom in general population and a central symptom in many diseases, for example, cancer, ischaemic heart disease and depression. Besides, it's a side effect of many medical treatments. Fatigue has been shown to have a substantial impact on patients' self care activities and, overall quality of life. Objectives To compare levels of the various aspects of fatigue in three different populations. Aims To see if diagnosis is a significant predictor for fatigue. Methods We conducted a survey in a random sample of 69 patients with diabetes Mellitus (DM), 114 psychiatric outpatients (PO) and 383 healthy adults (C), using the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI-20). ANOVA test was used to reveille the statistical significance between the groups in all levels of fatigue. Results The control group had a significant difference to the PO and DM patients in physical fatigue (MD PO =-3.835 p DM .=-2.745p PO =-3.719 p DM =-3.155 p PO =-3.569 p DM =-2.349 p C =-4.135 p DM .=-3.835 p C =4.638 p DM . =4.346 p Conclusions Analysis shows that both psychiatric outpatients and patients with DM experience fatigue in all aspects of the measurement as expected, in a statistical significant level compared to the general population.

Introduction Managing diabetes is an overwhelming task, particularly for the newly diagnosed patient. Many diabetics struggle to cope with the requirements of the disease and the complications that it causes. As a result, many diabetics suffer from depression which is the most common psychiatric disorder witnessed in the diabetic population. Objectives To compare the levels the emotional states of anxiety, depression and stress in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) to the general population and chronic patients with psychological problems. Aims To reveille the significant differences between those patients. Methods We conducted a survey in a random sample of 279 patients with diabetes Mellitus (DM), 109 psychiatric outpatients (PO) and 383 healthy adults (C), using the Depression Anxiety Stress scale (DASSI-42). Statistical analysis was conducted with SPSS 16 for windows. ANOVA test was used to reveille the statistical significance between the groups in anxiety, stress, depression and total Scale. Results Patients with DM had a significant difference to the PO patients and C in anxiety (MD PO = −12.251 p C = 1.303 p PO = −11.465 p PO = −15.751 p PO = −39.566 p Conclusions Analysis shows that patient with DM who are under medical treatment experience anxiety in a greater level than the general population, but in terms of stress and depression they are in the same level to the general population.

Introduction Gender has been found to be a significant factor in quality of life in patients with psychiatric disorders. Compliance on the other hand is something that psychiatric patients are usually not familiar with. Objectives To explore the way that gender effects compliance in patients with mental problems. Aims To see the influence of gender in readmissions, days of hospitalization and compliance to therapy. Methods 133 (60, 7%) males and 86 (39, 3%) females participated in the study. Chi square test and independent sample t test were performed with SPSS16. DASS42 and SRQ questionnaires were administered to all patients in admission and at the end of the treatment. Compliance to therapy required low scores to both of them at the end of the treatment and the consent of the psychiatrist who were responsible for each patient. Six months after the exit of the Department readmissions were explored. Results No significant difference was found in days of hospitalization with t test. The proportion of men who had a good compliance to therapy was 0.66 whereas the proportion from women was 0.86. The difference in proportions is significant, χ 2 (2, N = 219) = 17.43, p 2 (1, N = 219) = 4.76, p Conclusions It seems that women show better compliance to treatment so they have less readmissions than men.

Introduction The issue of quality of life (QOL) has received increased attention from the medical community due to its importance for patient rehabilitation. Measurement of QOL can be a comprehensive means of evaluating various aspects of care but research is still needed in terms of psychiatric patients. Objectives To compare the self evaluation of QOL and well being in patients with a psychiatric disorder. Aims To reveille the significant gender differences in QOL and well being. Methods 222 inpatients in a psychiatric department in Athens-Greece took part in the study 1 day before they left the department.134 of them were males and 88 females. The questionnaires that were used are the Short Form health questionnaire (12 questions; SF12) and the subjective well being scale (SWBC). Independent sample t test were performed with SPSS16. Results Women had a significantly higher mean score (MWB = 14.9 ± 6.6) in well being (T = -2.604 p Conclusions Analysis shows that gender is a significant factor that affects the self evaluation of quality of life and well being among patients with psychiatric disorders. More research is needed in order to find out significant differences between different diagnoses of DSM and gender.