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Collegiate athletes have demonstrated a need for social support to help cope with their daily responsibilities. The purpose of this research was to explore National Collegiate Athletic Association Division II athletes' perception of social support from friends, teammates, family, coaches, significant others, and athletic trainers following injury, illness, or other identified life stressors. There were 546 participants who completed a five-part survey using the University Stress Scale, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, the Athletic Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, the Perceived Stress Scale, and a demographic section. Of the participants, 352 (64.5%) stated that they experienced moderate stress levels, and all participants indicated experiencing an identified life stressor within the last 12 months. The results indicated statistically significant differences when comparing providers of social support: females preferred the support of friends, significant others, and athletic trainers, and freshmen and sophomores perceived more social support from friends than did juniors and seniors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Clinical practicum is crucial for strengthening nursing students' clinical competence. However, nursing students often experience considerable stress during clinical practicum, and so they employ coping strategies to alleviate it. There is almost no empirical evidence on the change trajectory of perceived stress, coping strategies, and clinical competence among nursing students during a one-year clinical practicum. This study aimed to investigate the trajectory of change in perceived stress, coping strategies, and clinical competence among undergraduate nursing students during a one-year clinical practicum. Methods: This study used a longitudinal cohort design. Undergraduate nursing students were recruited from a science and technology university in Taiwan to participate from February 2021 to January 2022. Perceived stress, coping strategies, and clinical competence among students in basic training practicum (T1), advanced training practicum (T2), and comprehensive clinical nursing practicum (T3) were surveyed by using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Coping Behaviour Inventory (CBI), and Clinical Competence Scale (CCS). PSS, CBI, and CCS in T1, T2, and T3 were compared using a generalized estimating equation (GEE) to deal with correlated data. The level of statistical significance was set at α = 0.05. Results: A total of 315 undergraduate nursing students completed the questionnaire. The study results show that the overall perceived stress of the students is the highest in T2 and the lowest in T3. The main source of stress of the students is 'taking care of patients' at T1 and 'lack of professional knowledge and skills' at T2 and T3. Students' perceived stress in 'taking care of patients' gradually decreases over time. The four coping strategies of CBI, which are 'stay optimistic', 'problem-solving', 'transference' and 'avoidance' in this order, remain the same ranking in three surveys.The main stress coping strategy used by students is 'stay optimistic', while the coping strategy 'avoidance' is used more frequently in T2 than in T1 and T3. Students' mean scores of the overall clinical competence and in the 'general nursing' and 'management' subscales in T3 are higher than those in T1 and T2. However, their mean scores in 'self-growth' and 'positivity' subscales are the highest in T1 and the lowest in T2. Conclusions: The results show that through experiential learning in clinical practicum at different stages time after time, students' overall perceived stress is the lowest and their overall clinical competence is the highest in T3. The main coping strategy used when students managed stress is 'stay optimistic'. According to the results, we suggest that clinical educators provide students with appropriate guidance strategies at different stages of stress and continue to follow up the clinical competence and retention rates of these nursing students in the workplace in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine and metabolic disorders in women of reproductive age. It is frequently comorbid with obesity and negative emotions. Currently, there are few reports on the relationship between obesity and negative emotions in patients with PCOS. Here we performed both basic and clinical studies to study the relationship between obesity and negative emotions in PCOS. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study including 608 patients with PCOS and 184 healthy participants to assess the mental health status of people with different body mass indices (BMI). Self-rated anxiety, depression, and perceived stress scales were used for subjective mood evaluations. Rat PCOS models fed 45 and 60% high-fat diets were used to confirm the results of the clinical study. Elevated plus maze and open field tests were used to assess anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in rats. Results: We observed overweight/obesity, increased depression, anxiety, and perceived stress in women with PCOS, and found that anxiety and depression were negatively correlated with BMI in patients with severe obesity and PCOS. Similar results were confirmed in the animal study; the elevated plus maze test and open field test demonstrated that only 60% of high fat diet-induced obesity partly reversed anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in PCOS rats. A high-fat diet also modulated rat hypothalamic and hippocampal luteinizing hormone and testosterone levels. Conclusion: These results reveal a potential relationship between obesity and negative emotions in PCOS and prompt further investigation. The interactions between various symptoms of PCOS may be targeted to improve the overall well-being of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Introduction Aim Method Results Discussion Implications for Practice Psychological flexibility is posited to aid individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) in managing stress and tolerating distress. However, the intricacies of this mechanism remain obscure.This study investigates the potential mediating role of psychological flexibility in the relationship between distress tolerance and perceived stress among individuals with SUD.This cross‐sectional study evaluated 187 individuals with SUD, selected through non‐probability convenience sampling, using the Introductory Information Form, the Perceived Stress Scale, the Distress Tolerance Scale and the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire—Substance Abuse. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 25 and further refined with Jamovi 2.4.14, employing advanced mediation analysis techniques.Significant relationships were found between distress tolerance, perceived stress and psychological flexibility. Mediation model analysis showed that psychological flexibility mediated the relationship between distress tolerance and perceived stress.This study revealed that higher distress tolerance, higher psychological flexibility and lower perceived stress were associated. As individuals adopt a more flexible and accepting attitude towards distressing situations, they perceive stressful events as less threatening and more manageable.The study suggests the need for psychiatric and mental health nursing practice and education to incorporate strategies to increase psychological flexibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies had found the effects of stress on eating behaviors. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of perceived stress on dietary quality by sexes in Chinese adults. Methods: The study population consisted of individuals aged 18 to 59 years participating in the China Health and Nutrition Survey. Perceived stress levels were measured using the 10-item Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), with scores ranging from 0 to 40. Dietary quality was evaluated by Chinese Dietary Guidelines Index (CDGI) ranging 0-110. Using a two-level mixed effects model with community as level 2 and individual as level 1, the study analyzed the impact of PSS-10 scores on CDGI. Additionally, a two-level mixed effects structural equation model was employed to explore the effects of distress factor scores and coping stressor factor scores on dietary quality among different sexes within the population. Results: This study involved in 2515 males and 3165 females, and the average age was 45.9 ± 9.6.The PSS-10 score and CDGI were 14.6 ± 5.1 and 44.8 ± 11.6, separately. After adjusting for confounders, there were no effects of PSS-10 score, distress factor score, and coping stressors factor score on CDGI in males. After adjusting for confounders, CDGI in the highest tertile of PSS-10 score group was 1.64 lower than that in the lowest tertile group in females(P = 0.001). The distress factor score was not associated with CDGI (standardized β=-0.164, P = 0.488), while the coping with stressors factor score was significantly negative with CDGI (standardized β=-0.834, P < 0.001) in females. CDGI in the highest tertile of coping with stressors factor score group was 4.36 lower than that in the lowest tertile group (P < 0.0001). Conclusions: There was no association between perceived stress and dietary quality in adult males. The perceived stress, especially the insufficient capacity to cope with stressors, was negatively associated with dietary quality in adult females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aims to explore the physiological effect of forest bathing on stress management. Methods: A total of 29 volunteers participated in this pre-post design, which lacked a control group. Several physiological parameters were recorded, including heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), electrodermal activity (EDA), blood pressure (BP), immunoglobulin A (IGA), and salivary cortisol (sCort). Additionally, the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) was administered before forest exposure. Measurements were taken before and after participants spent 2 days fully immersed in a forest environment. To further assess stress management, participants completed a Mental Arithmetic Task (MAT) before and after forest immersion, during which EDA, HRV, and HR were monitored using an Empatica E4 wristband. Measurements were taken at baseline, during MAT, and afterward (recovery). Results: Participants exhibited moderate perceived stress levels before forest immersion (mean PSS-10 = 21.22, SD = 3.78). Post-forest exposure, there was a significant decrease in sCort (p < 0.05) and EDA (p < 0.001), while HRV increased (p < 0.001), and diastolic blood pressure rose (p < 0.05). ANOVA results from the MAT showed a significant increase in parasympathetic activity across all conditions post-immersion (p < 0.05), except during recovery, while EDA decreased in all conditions post-forest exposure (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Shinrin-yoku significantly improved stress management at a physiological level and could be a valuable intervention for individuals experiencing stress. However, longitudinal studies with a control group are necessary to determine whether these effects are sustained over time. Nonetheless, this study highlights the potential benefits of forest immersion for stress reduction by enhancing sympathovagal balance and the adaptability of the stress response system. Created with biorender.com. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Stress‐sensitivity (SS) is considered a psychobiological trait possibly resulting from the interaction of genetic and environmental factors (GxE). This study examined whether the interaction of SS‐related genetic markers with interview‐based dimensions of childhood adversity predicted longitudinal trajectories of low versus high SS. Participants were nonclinically‐ascertained young adults comprising normative and elevated scores on schizotypy. SS trajectories were defined in a previous report based on three prospective assessments (23.5, 25, 28 years‐old) of both retrospective (Perceived Stress Scale; PSS) and momentary (Experience Sampling Methodology; ESM) stress ratings. A total of n = 177 and n = 165 participants with PSS and ESM stress‐sensitivity trajectories, respectively, as well as genetic data, were included in the study. GxE effects between a SS Polygenic Risk Score (PRS‐SS) and a Genetic Risk Score of the Hypothalamic Pituitary Adrenal axis (GRS‐HPA) with childhood adversity dimensions (Intrafamilial Adversity, Threat and Deprivation) on SS trajectories were examined. Threat was the most consistent predictor of persistently high SS. PRS‐SS moderated the association of Threat with high‐PSS. GRS‐HPA moderated the effects of all adversity dimensions on high‐PSS. The interaction of PRS‐SS with Deprivation and GRS‐HPA with Intrafamilial Adversity predicted trajectories of momentary social stress, but the effects were driven by those with lower genetic susceptibility. Genetic‐HPA‐axis moderates the effects of all adversity dimensions on persistent SS trajectories, as well as PRS‐SS and Threat, particularly for retrospective stress measure. The findings highlight the complex interplay between GxE factors and suggest that PSS may better capture SS trait. Including biologically‐meaningful GRS indexing SS and adversity dimensions in future studies using comprehensive stress measures would enhance our knowledge on high SS susceptibility and its relationship with diverse psychopathological outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent research indicates that paranormal belief, in the absence of allied cognitive-perceptual and psychopathology-related factors, is not associated with negative wellbeing outcomes. However, investigators have historically reported relationships between specific facets of belief (e.g., superstition) and stress vulnerability. These typically derive from the Revised Paranormal Belief Scale (RPBS), which has questionable psychometric integrity. The main issue being that several RPBS items perform poorly. Noting this, the present paper re-examined the relationship between paranormal belief and stress using the Rasch purified version of the RPBS. This comprises two dimensions, called Traditional Paranormal Belief (TPB) and New Age Philosophy (NAP). These are operationalised in terms of function. Specifically, whether belief provides a sense of control at the social (TPB) or individual level (NAP). Accordingly, this study examined whether TPB and NAP were differentially predictive of levels of perceived stress. In this context, stress served as an indicator of well-being. A sample of 3084 participants (Mage = 50.31, SD = 15.20, range 18–91) completed the RPBS alongside the 10-item Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10). Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling revealed that TPB was significantly predictive of higher Distress, and lower Coping. NAP was neither predictive of Distress nor Coping. These findings support the notion that TPB is attendant with external control, particularly the notion that unknown supernatural forces/powers influence existence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The escalating stress epidemic in modern society has raised concerns about its impact on physical and mental health, prompting the need for effective interventions. Yoga, a multifaceted mind–body practice, has gained recognition for its potential in mitigating perceived stress. Our meta-analysis aimed to estimate yoga’s impact on lowering perceived stress as measured by the Perceived Stress Scale. We identified 36 studies meeting inclusion criteria and found a statistically significant moderate effect of yoga on reducing perceived stress (g = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.29-0.66). Our analysis uncovered substantial heterogeneity (Q = 117.33, p < .001), with 74.90% of the variation in effect sizes attributed to study characteristics. In planned moderator analyses, we hypothesised that yoga with breathwork, relaxation, high stress symptoms, greater number of hours practiced, and studies conducted in India would yield larger effects. Stress severity was shown to be statistically significant. However, the remaining hypotheses were not supported. Additionally, we examined five exploratory moderator variables, which did not yield significant results. Further research is needed to elucidate the source of heterogeneity across studies and reveal recommendations for specific populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compares baseline clinical characteristics, physical function testing, and patient-reported outcomes for patients undergoing primary cytoreductive surgery versus neoadjuvant chemotherapy, with the goal of better understanding unique patient needs at diagnosis. Patients with suspected advanced stage (IIIC/IV) epithelial ovarian cancer undergoing either primary cytoreductive surgery or neoadjuvant chemotherapy were enrolled in a single-institution, non-randomized prospective behavioral intervention trial of prehabilitation. Baseline clinical characteristics were abstracted. Physical function was evaluated using the Short Physical Performance Battery, Fried Frailty Index, gait speed, and grip strength. Patient-reported outcomes were evaluated using Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System metrics and the Perceived Stress Scale. There were no significant differences in demographics or clinical characteristics between cohorts at enrollment, with the exception of performance status, clinical stage, and albumin. While gait speed and grip strength were lower amongst neoadjuvant chemotherapy patients, there were no significant differences in physical function using the Short Physical Performance Battery and Fried Frailty Index. Patients in the neoadjuvant chemotherapy cohort reported decreased perception of physical function and increased fatigue on Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System metrics. A larger proportion of patients in the neoadjuvant cohort reported severe levels of emotional distress and anxiety, as well as greater perceived stress at diagnosis. Our findings suggest that patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy for advanced ovarian cancer present with increased psychosocial distress and decreased perception of physical function at diagnosis and may benefit most from early introduction of supportive care. • Ovarian cancer patients undergoing NACT report decreased perception of physical function compared to those undergoing PCS. • NACT patients report increased emotional distress/anxiety and perceived stress when compared to those undergoing PCS. • NACT patients may benefit most from early initiation of supportive care services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Russian military's incursion into Ukraine sparked the largest refugee crisis in Europe since World War II. As Ukraine's neighboring country, Poland became the primary destination for these refugees. Ukrainians staying in Poland under the EU's Temporary Protection Directive receive humanitarian support similarly to asylum seekers, but the legal pathways, length of stay and integration processes differ significantly as the Directive provides for more immediate, collective protection without the complexity of individual asylum applications. The influx of war refugees generates extremely complex situations that health personnel, especially nurses, must face on a daily basis. Aim: Identify whether and to what extent the emergence of a large number of patients with war-related experiences constituted a source of stress for nurses, and how Polish nurses coped with this issue. Materials and method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in December 2022 in Białystok, Poland. It included 473 certified nurses working in hospitals affiliated with the District Chamber of Nurses in Białystok. Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) questionnaire and Mini-COPE inventory (Polish version of Carver'a BriefCOPE inventory were used in the study. Results: The average stress level among nurses was moderate, with nearly equal proportions of nurses experiencing low, medium, and high stress levels. Nurses who had contact with refugees in the last six months and/or helped them, did not present an increased level of stress - on the contrary, this level was lower. Nurses who helped refugees at work more often used a planning strategy in stressful situations, and less frequently reacted to stress using humour, religion, denial or venting. Conclusions: The greater workload and more frequent contacts between Polish nurses and Ukrainian war refugees were a factor increasing work fatigue, but, paradoxically, at the same time reducing the level of stress in a situation giving the feeling of a duty well fulfilled. Empowering nurses through greater autonomy and fostering supportive work environments, especially in crisis situations like the care of war refugees has a positive impact on coping with stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic stress causes harmful physiological responses that yield increased inflammation and subsequent health conditions. Stress is an important measure among minoritized populations who face social situations that predispose risk to developing mental health problems. Hair and fingernail cortisol have been studied as retrospective measures of chronic stress and to demonstrate biological response to social situations. Objectives: The objective of this study was to compare the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) with hair and nail cortisol concentrations and assess the risk factors associated with stress levels among heterosexual and sexual and gender-minoritized adolescent males. Methods:We recruited a cohort of adolescents who were assigned male sex at birth. Approximately half of our cohort consisted of sexual and gender-minoritized people, and half consisted of heterosexual cisgender males. Participants provided hair and nail samples and completed a survey that included demographic and hair hygiene questions and the PSS. Hair and nail samples were processed in a laboratory, and survey results were analyzed descriptively. Results: Several samples were not provided or received, and some survey data were missing. Hair and nail cortisol values were significantly associated. There was no significant relationship between the PSS and hair and nail cortisol values. No significant differences were found between the heterosexual and sexual minoritized groups. Black participants reported lower perceived stress scores compared to White participants. Participants whose gender was nonbinary or genderqueer had higher hair cortisol values compared to those who identified as male. Older participants had higher hair cortisol values compared to younger participants. Discussion: Previous researchers have similarly found no correlation between self-report stress scales and cortisol values, increased stress experience among nonbinary or genderqueer individuals compared to cisgender individuals, and a positive correlation between aging and stress. Yet, our finding that Black participants reported lower stress levels thanWhite participants is unexpected. Our study demonstrates a high correlation between hair and nail cortisol values, suggesting the potential to substitute these markers as needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We explored the relationship between perceived social support and life satisfaction with a convenience sample of 991 undergraduate nursing students. Participants completed the Perceived Social Support Scale, the Perceived Discrimination Scale, the Perceived Stress Scale, and the Life Satisfaction Scale. There was a positive correlation between perceived social support and life satisfaction among undergraduate nursing students, and perceived discrimination and perceived stress played a chain mediating role in this relationship. Our research results reveal the relationship mechanism between perceived social support and life satisfaction among undergraduate nursing students, providing a preliminary basis for studying the causal relationship of these variables. The results also provide a theoretical basis for improving the life satisfaction of undergraduate nursing students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the stress level and depression among orthopaedic surgeons in Saudi Arabia. In addition, to evaluate orthopedic training programs related factors that might have a critical role in the development of depression among orthopaedic surgeons. Methods: The study adopted a cross-sectional study design. Two validated questionnaires were utilized, the Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) for assessing depressive symptoms and stress levels. Data was collected by sending the survey to the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties so they could be distributed throughout all registered orthopaedic surgeons. Results: The study sample consisted of 325 participants. The results revealed that the severity of depression varied across the different groups. As per the PHQ-9 criteria, 74 (22.8%) were initially diagnosed with major depression. Among assistant consultants, 39.5% reported severe depression, while 34.9% reported mild depression. Consultants predominantly reported moderate perceived stress (82.9%) with a notable proportion experiencing high perceived stress (12.4%). Assistant consultants showed a balanced distribution, with 93.0% reporting moderate perceived stress and 4.7% reporting high perceived stress. Demographic variables gender, relationship status and having children revealed statistically significant relationship with PHQ-9 scores (p-value < 0.05) but not with PSS-10 scores. Conclusion: The study highlights pressing need to address mental health concerns within orthopaedic surgeons. To address these challenges, healthcare institutions should implement comprehensive mental health support programs offering resources for stress management, counseling services, and peer support groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Examine the predictors of food security and perceived stress among international students. Design: Cross-sectional Design. Settings: A public university in the Southwest United States. Subjects: Sample size of Seventy-three participants (≥18 years). Measures: Self-report measures of food insecurity and perceived stress. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Adult Food Security Survey Module (AFSSM) to assess food security status, and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) questionnaire to evaluate stress levels. Analysis: Logistic regression was performed to identify predictors of food security and perceived stress. Results: Duration of stay in the U.S. was a predictor of food security status, while gender was a predictor of perceived stress. International students in the U.S. for less than a year had a lower chance of being food secure [OR (95% CI) = 0.22 (0.05 - 0.74)]. Female international students had a lower chance of experiencing low perceived stress [OR (95% CI) = 0.07 (0.00 - 0.51)]. Conclusion: In supporting international students, targeted nutrition and stress management interventions should be emphasized, particularly for females and those who recently moved to the U.S. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis study aims to investigate the mechanism of relapse tendency in male drug abusers and provide empirical evidence for reducing relapse tendency of drug abusers. A survey was conducted on 310 male individuals with drug addiction using Chinese Perceived Stress Scale (CPSS), Simple Coping Style Questionnaire (SCSQ), the Regulatory Emotional Self-Efficacy Scale, and the Relapse Tendency Scale (RTS). (1) Stress is significantly positively correlated with the relapse tendency of individuals with drug addiction; (2) Stress indirectly affects relapse tendency through regulatory emotional self-efficacy; (3) Regulatory emotional self-efficacy can directly and negatively predict relapse tendency, and can also indirectly and negatively predict relapse tendency through coping style. Stress coping theory, tension elimination theory, and the self-administration hypothesis are applicable to explain the tendency to relapse due to stress among compulsory isolated drug abusers in China; Regulatory emotional self-efficacy and coping style play a chain mediating role between stress and relapse tendency of male individuals with drug addiction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With growing involution in contemporary China, academic stress and sleep quality have become two noticeable issues among Chinese college students. Amid this background, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between academic stress and sleep quality, and the potential mediating mechanisms and antecedents to this relationship. First, we developed a Perceived Academic Stress Scale for Chinese Undergraduate Students (PASSCUS) in the pilot study. Demonstrating satisfactory psychometric quality, this scale effectively distinguishes between academic stress caused by the (lasting) education involution and that caused by (episodic) academic workload. In the main study, we tested an integrated theoretical model on the relationship between perceived academic stress (using PASSCUS) and sleep quality to understand the mediating mechanism through which academic stress predicts sleep quality among a convenient sample of 466 participants. Consistent with our expectations, we found that academic stress predicted social comparison, which predicted bedtime procrastination, which further predicted worse sleep quality. Furthermore, our hypotheses were also supported that cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression emotion regulation strategies contributed to academic stress. Whereas cognitive reappraisal negatively predicted perceived academic stress, expressive suppression positively predicted perceived academic stress. Additionally, the relationship between expressive suppression and perceived lasting academic stress was stronger than that between expressive suppression and episodic academic stress. Taken together, this study introduces PASSCUS as a valuable tool for distinguishing between types of academic stress while also elucidating the specific pathways through which these stress types impact sleep quality. Moreover, our findings pointed to the potential for reducing college students' problems of academic stress and sleep quality by improving emotion regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Evidence for the longer-term benefits of online mindfulness training for medical students, including in the reduction of stress and improved wellbeing, is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a novel online mindfulness training program on trait mindfulness, wellbeing and study engagement of medical students at program completion and 6-month follow-up. Methods: This was a randomised waitlist control study of an 8-week, online, mindfulness-based intervention versus normal curriculum alone for medical students (N = 114). The primary outcome measures were the changes from baseline to program completion at Week 8 for self-reported trait mindfulness (Freiburg Mindfulness Inventory), perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale), self-compassion (Self-Compassion Scale) and study engagement scores (Utrecht Work Engagement Scale for Students). The secondary outcome measures were these score changes from baseline to 6-month follow up. Intervention and control students completed surveys at all three time points. Program adherence (Mindfulness Adherence Questionnaire) was also measured in the intervention group. Results: The intervention group experienced modest but statistically significant improvements in mindfulness (9%, p = 0.0002), self-compassion (5%, p = 0.026), and study engagement (4%, p = 0.035) from baseline to Week 8. They also reported a sustained improvement of 5% (p = 0.017) in mindfulness scores at 6 months. The control group reported no significant changes at Week 8 or 6 Months. Between-group comparisons showed that compared to the control group, the intervention group improved significantly more in mindfulness (p = 0.0076), and statistically marginally more in study engagement (p = 0.0534) at Week 8. No statistically significant between-group differences were observed at 6 months. Conclusions: These results add to the small but growing body of evidence suggesting that online mindfulness-based interventions with minimal contact can improve, albeit in modest magnitude, mindfulness and possibly study engagement in medical students for the duration of a mindfulness program. Further refinements to the program may be important to maintain improvements in the longer-term. Trial registration: Registration number ACTRN12624000783527. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Increased sick leave among educators can detrimentally impact students' productivity, and academic achievement. It remains unknown whether the number of sick days taken by educators in the preceding school year correlates with the prevalence or severity of psychological problems among educators in the subsequent school year. Objective: This study aimed to examine the number of self-reported sick days taken by educators in three Canadian provinces during the 2021/2022 academic year and its association with measures of stress, burnout, low resilience, depression, and anxiety during the 2022/2023 school year. Methods: Data was collected from educators in three Canadian provinces, Alberta, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland and Labrador, from September 1, 2022, to August 30, 2023. The Maslach Burnout Inventory-Educator Survey (MBI-ES), the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS), and the Perceived Stress Scale were used to assess burnout, resilience, and stress, respectively. Likely Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and likely Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) were assessed using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 scales, respectively. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 28. Results: A total of 763 subscribers completed all the demographic, professional questions, and clinical scales, giving a response rate of 39.91%. Of these, there were 94 (12.3%) males and 669 (87.7%) females. Educators who reported taking 11 or more sick days in the previous academic year were at least three times more likely to exhibit high stress, emotional exhaustion, likely GAD, low resilience, and likely MDD than educators with no sick days during the preceding year. Similarly, educators with 11 or more sick days had significantly higher mean scores on the GAD-7 scale, the PHQ-9 scale, the PSS-10, the MBI Emotional Exhaustion subscale, and the MBI Depersonalization subscale than those with zero sick days. Conclusion: This study demonstrates a significant association between sick days and the prevalence and severity of high stress, low resilience, burnout, anxiety, and depression among educators. Short-term sick leave can escalate into long-term absences without adequate support for teachers. Governments and policymakers in the education sector must foster a supportive environment that enables teachers to thrive and effectively perform their professional role without taking prolonged sick days, which can undermine student learning and achievement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To explore the relationship between social media addiction and anxiety among college students and the role of bedtime procrastination and stress perception. Methods A total of 15493 college students were selected by convenience sampling in September 2023 with using the Bergen Social Networking Addiction Scale, the Bedtime Procrastination Scale, the Chinese Perceived Stress Scales and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item Scale. SPSS25.0 macro program PROCESS was used to analyze the mediating effect of bedtime procrastination and the moderating effect of stress perception. Results The social media addiction was positively predicted college students' anxiety (β=0.307, P＜0.001). Bedtime procrastination partially mediated the relationship between social media addiction and anxiety in the college students. The mediation effect value was 0.060 (95% Bootstrap CI=［0.055-0.065］), the mediating effect accounted for 19.54% of the total. Stress perception moderated the relationship between bedtime procrastination and anxiety (β=0.094, P＜0.001). As the level of perceived stress increased, the positive association between bedtime procrastination and anxiety became stronger. Conclusion Social media addiction can directly affect anxiety in the college students, or indirectly affect it through bedtime procrastination, and perceived stress moderates the path from bedtime procrastination to anxiety in the mediation model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a study that examines the relationship between illness narratives and postoperative psychological states in patients recovering from surgery. The study identifies three types of illness narratives and explores their associations with depression, anxiety, perceived stress, illness perception, and quality of life. The study uses a mixed-methods approach and includes 140 patients with chronic illness or malignancy. The findings suggest that the way individuals narrate their illness experiences can impact their psychological well-being and perception of illness. Understanding patients' illness narratives can help support their psychological adjustment and coping with the disease. [Extracted from the article]

In India, tobacco (nicotine) addiction among youth has increased, leading to substantial socioeconomic burdens, mortality, and morbidity. While minimal short-term nicotine consumption may have antioxidant effects, chronic exposure results in various adverse health outcomes. This study examines the impact of chronic nicotine consumption on cellular oxidative stress and psychological stress, and their correlation with Homocysteine (Hcy) levels in unemployed tobacco consumers. This case-control study included 156 healthy, educated, unemployed male volunteers aged 20–40 years, divided into nicotine-addicted (n = 80) and non-addicted (n = 76) groups. Psychological stress was assessed using perceived stress scales (PSS) and coping self-efficacy (CSE) scales. Oxidative stress markers, including Malondialdehyde (MDA), Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), and Catalase, were measured. Hcy levels were quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Nicotine-addicted participants exhibited significantly higher perceived stress (p = 0.0001) and lower coping self-efficacy (p = 0.0001) compared to non-addicted individuals. MDA levels in erythrocytes were significantly increased (p = 0.0006), while SOD (p = 0.0001) and Catalase (p = 0.02) activities were significantly decreased in the addicted group. Nicotine intake influenced Hcy concentrations, with 55% of addicted individuals falling into moderate, 27.5% into intermediate, and 7.5% into severe Hcy categories. Chronic nicotine intake also reflected the hematological parameters (WBCs, RBCs, HGB, and Platelets). Chronic tobacco consumption induces oxidative stress and perceived psychological stress, leading to elevated Hcy levels in nicotine consumers. The study highlights the detrimental effects of nicotine addiction on cellular defensive mechanisms, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to address this growing health issue among unemployed Indian youth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The objective of the current study was to assess the effectiveness of stress management training, grounded in Lazarus and Folkman's stress management model, on reducing caregiving burden and perceived stress among family caregivers of patients on hemodialysis. Methods: This two-group clinical trial study was conducted in parallel design among 60 family caregivers of patients on hemodialysis in 2023. The participants were divided into two groups of training and control using a random quadruple block allocation method. The intervention took place over two months, in six online group sessions of 35–45 min. Zarit Burden Inventory (ZBI) and Cohen's Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-14) were used to collect information before and two weeks after the intervention. The study data were analyzed using and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), pair, and independent t-tests at a significance level of 0.05. Results: At baseline, the two groups exhibited homogeneity in terms of mean scores for caregiving burden (Training group = 50.8 ± 4.9; Control group = 49.1 ± 6.0; P = 0.264) and perceived stress (Training group = 32.8 ± 4.7; Control group = 31.5 ± 2.4; P = 0.192). Nevertheless, following the intervention, there was a significant decrease in caregiving burden (Training group = 45.9 ± 4.1; Control group = 49.0 ± 5.8; P = 0.017) and perceived stress (Training group = 28.0 ± 4.4; Control group = 30.7 ± 3.5; P = 0.01) scores within the training group compared to the control group. Conclusion: Based on the findings of the current study, given that family caregivers of patients on hemodialysis encounter psychological distress and contend with the negative aspects of care, it is advisable to implement psycho-educational interventions, such as stress management training. Incorporating these interventions into the care plan for hemodialysis could help mitigate these adverse consequences and provide valuable support for family caregivers. Trial registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT), IRCT20180728040617N6. Registered on 17/04/2023. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our study aimed to identify the mechanisms of stress-induced and post-stress recovery states by evaluating voxel type and the total number of voxels activated based on Perceived Stress Scale scores. Functional MRI (fMRI) was used to measure the brain activation patterns in participants grouped into moderate- and high-stress categories. The number of activation voxels in the parahippocampal gyrus of the limbic lobe was greater in the high-stress group than in the moderate-stress group. Moreover, only the high-stress group showed the characteristic activation of the left precuneus. The moderate-stress group showed a greater number of activation voxels than the high-stress group for the occipital, frontal, and limbic lobes, while the reverse was true for the parietal lobe. In the post-stress recovery phase, the left lingual, inferior frontal, and middle frontal gyri were activated, and the number of activation voxels in these areas was greater in the high-stress group than in the moderate-stress group. The characteristic activation of the declive in the left cerebellum was observed in the moderate-stress group, whereas the activation of the right cuneus was dominant in the high-stress group. Our findings suggest that perceived stress may play an important role in determining the neural mechanisms underlying stress and post-stress recovery, providing insights into the complex interplay between the psychological and neural processes occurring in response to stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subtle and asymptomatic nature of high blood pressure results in increase in mortality and morbidity. Dentists may play a vital role in identifying patients with suspected hypertension who are not yet diagnosed to refer them timely to physicians for diagnosis and management of the condition. The aim of this study was to compare the oral health status using decayed, missing, filled teeth (DMFT) index and perceived stress score using perceived stress scale (PSS-10) between systemically healthy dental patients, and patients with undiagnosed and known hypertension attending dental out-patient department of Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Lahore Medical College & Institute of Dentistry, Lahore, Pakistan. It is a cross-sectional descriptive study in which 108 patients participated selected through purposive sampling method, 36 in each group. According to Kruskal Wallis H test, there were significant associations seen among the three groups with age (p < 0.001), DMFT (p < 0.001), and PSS-10 scores (p = 0.003). According to Spearman's matrix correlations, moderate positive correlations were observed between mean arterial pressure (MAP) and DMFT (r = 0.46, p < 0.001), and MAP and age (r = 0.38, p = 0.001), DMFT and PSS-10 (r = 0.47, p < 0.001), and DMFT and age (r = 0.33, p = 0.004) in healthy and patients with undiagnosed hypertension. It may be concluded that patients with raised blood pressure have higher perceived stress and deteriorated oral health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a significant public health issue in India, where alcohol consumption is discouraged but often practiced excessively. In our country, with an emphasis on the family system, the spouses of individuals with alcohol dependence are also affected in many ways. The patients and their spouses are bound to affect each other, as spouses are usually the primary caregivers. Aim: To study the impact of AUD on the spouses of affected individuals, focusing on perceived stress, depression and anxiety. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 spouses of patients with AUD who visited the Psychiatry Outpatient Department (OPD) the Department of Psychiatry, ACS Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, a tertiary hospital in the Chennai suburban area over a period of two months. Data were collected between November 2021 and December 2021 using a socio-demographic proforma to record age, education, employment and the ages of children, among other factors. Assessment tools used included the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) for assessing depression, anxiety and stress, respectively. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 software. Independent t-tests and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were used for comparison. Results: The average age of the participants was 42.1±11.7 years, with moderate variability. Most participants were educated (81%), employed (84%) and residing in nuclear families (76%). The study revealed moderate levels of perceived stress (24.2), variable anxiety (19.2) and varying degrees of depression (16.4) among the spouses. Employed individuals had significantly lower anxiety and depression scores compared to non employed individuals. The correlations indicated positive associations between stress, anxiety and depression. Anxiety was positively correlated with the ages of male children (r=0.244, p=0.016) and female children (r=0.363, p=0.002). Similarly, depression was correlated with the ages of male children (r=0.258, p=0.011) and female children (r=0.292, p=0.014). Conclusion: The present study underscores the substantial impact of AUD on spouses, highlighting notable levels of stress, anxiety and depression. Employment status has emerged as a crucial factor influencing mental health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to examine the mediating role of stress in the relationship between 4th, 5th and 6th grade students' perception of family functionality and their attitudes towards bullying. The study group of the research consisted of 351 students, 180 girls and 171 boys, studying in the 4th, 5th and 6th grades in Eskişehir in the 2020-2021 academic year. Data were collected using the "Family Relations Scale for Children", "Attitudes towards Bullying Scale for Children" and "Perceived Stress Scale for Children". The data obtained was analyzed using SPSS and LISREL programs. When the relationships between variables were examined in the model established for the purpose of the research and tested with path analysis, significant relationships were found between the perception of family functionality, stress and attitudes towards bullying. According to the finding obtained as a result of the path analysis, the relationship between students' perception of family functionality and attitudes towards bullying is mediated by perceived stress. It was observed that the goodness of fit indices of the tested model were good and at an acceptable level. The results of the research were discussed in line with the relevant literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aims to measure, at two time points, the relationship between self-perceived global stress and the personality traits of the mothers of children who have central auditory processing disorder (APD) and compare it with the results from mothers of typically developing (TD) children. The comparisons were made before the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as late in the pandemic. Methods: The level of stress was assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), while the Short Big Five Markers (IPIP-BFM-20) were used to assess Big Five personality traits. The study used two independent samples: one evaluated before the COVID-19 pandemic and the other late in the pandemic. Each sample consisted of 108 mothers of children with APD and 79 mothers whose children did not have APD (TD children) as controls. Results: The average global stress levels were similar in mothers of children with APD and in mothers of TD children, both before and in the late stage of the COVID-19 pandemic. During the late stage, both sets of mothers scored similarly on all personality dimensions, but significantly, mothers of TD children exhibited lower emotional stability compared to during the pre-pandemic period. In both groups, emotional stability predicted global stress level at both time points; however, during the pandemic, conscientiousness also became a predictor of global stress level but only in the group of mothers of TD children. Conclusions: Mothers of APD children might be more resistant to additional stressors. It would be prudent to watch mothers of APD and TD children for signs of needing psychological intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Substance abuse is a widespread problem, with high rates of treatment dropout. Stress plays a crucial role in this problem, so innovative interventions with stressed patients can assist them in completing treatment. Methods: This study is a randomized controlled trial with 60 participants who have substance abuse disorder undergoing detoxification at a residency facility in Tehran, Iran. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: watching a 360° video of nature, a 360° video of a city environment, or no virtual experience. The intervention was performed only for one session. Psychological stress was measured using the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule and Perceived Stress Scale before and after the intervention. Physiological stress was assessed through respiratory rate, skin conductance, and heart rate recordings during the virtual reality (VR) experience. Data analysis was performed using R software (version 4.2). Results: Paired t‐test results indicated significant psychological differences before and after virtual nature experiences, but not in the control and city groups. The repeated measure ANOVA showed a significant reduction in skin conductance (p < 0.01) and respiratory rate (p < 0.01) scores in the nature group. Conclusion: The findings suggest that VR relaxation could be a potentially beneficial intervention for reducing stress in patients during detoxification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perceived stress in Italian coaches and sport mental health were investigated during the rebooting of sport activities following the first COVID-19 lockdown period. A sample of 237 coaches from various sports were asked to answer the Italian version of the Perceived Stress Scale and the Sport Mental Health Continuum, together with reporting of demographic information. Coaches’ perceived stress levels were compared with data collected during the lockdown period. Women showed a significant decrease in their perceived stress levels compared to the lockdown period, whereas this was not true for men. Hierarchical regression indicated that, during the rebooting phase, increased age of coaches and their psychological well-being experienced in sporting contexts (a sport mental health dimension) were predictive of decreased perceived stress levels. Practical implications for practitioners working in this field are discussed in the conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Perceived injustice is a relatively novel psychosocial construct starting to get some attention among researchers studying health and mental health outcomes. In the context of the widespread perception of being a victim of injustice in Bangladesh, a gap in instruments measuring perceived injustice was evident. The novelty of the construct and lack of similar instruments necessitated the development of a new Perceived Injustice Scale for Bangla speaking population. Method: A three-stage approach was used to develop the instrument. A thorough review of literature coupled with interviews with the general population as well as professionals contributed to the conceptualization of the construct. A rigorous process of expert evaluation and item analysis resulted in the identification of the most suitable items. Results: The scale demonstrated a single-factor structure with adequate evidence of its reliability and validity. Reliability of the scale was assessed using internal consistency method (Cronbach alpha =.931; p<.01) and test-retest method (r =.837; p<.01). While validity was assessed using criterion-related validity (correlation with the Steel Injustice Inventory at r =.428; p<.01) and construct validity (correlation with the Perceived Stress Scale at r =.332; p<.01; and with the WHO Wellbeing Index at r = -.361; p<.01). Conclusion: The strong evidence of reliability and validity suggests the suitability of the scale for measuring perceived injustice in Bangladesh. Researchers and clinicians can use this 10-item scale with confidence in assessing perceived injustice among the general population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STUDY QUESTION What is the prevalence of occupational stress, somatization, and burnout reported by UK and US, embryologists and the impact of work conditions on these well-being outcomes? SUMMARY ANSWER Surveyed UK and US embryologists reported moderate perceived stress, low somatic symptom severity, high levels of burnout, and overall stressful work conditions, but with differences that could be due to country-specific occupational and employment characteristics. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY? Spanish, UK, US, and international surveys have identified high levels of occupational stress, somatization, burnout, and occupational health issues among embryologists. These issues have been attributed to embryologists' occupational challenges and work conditions. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A cross-sectional web-based survey was sent to 253 embryologists working in UK ART/IVF clinics and 487 embryologists working in US ART/IVF clinics. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Participants self-reported their stress levels, somatization, burnout, and work conditions. Proportions across the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-15), Maslach Burnout Inventory-General Survey (MBI-GS), a single-item work unit grade (A–F), and customized occupational and sociodemographic questionnaires were calculated using descriptive statistics. Welch's t -test was utilized to compare PSS and PHQ-15 scores between groups. Risk ratios were calculated using log-binomial regression for all models except for levels of anxiety related to performing cryostorage tasks, for which Poisson models were used. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE In total, 50.6% (128) of the embryologists in the UK and 50.1% (244) in the US completed the survey. Both groups self-reported moderate PSS and low PHQ-15 scores, although fewer UK embryologists scored high on the MBI cynicism dimension than their US colleagues (43% UK vs 60% US embryologists, P  <   0.05). The UK and US embryologists did not differ on the MBI exhaustion dimension with both scoring high for exhaustion (59% UK vs 62% US). Although 81% and 80% of UK and US embryologists, respectively, reported working overtime, more embryologists in the UK reported being adequately compensated. Increasing levels of anxiety-related to cryostorage showed a dose-dependent increased risk of burnout on at least two MBI-GS dimensions only in the UK group, and, a dose-dependent likelihood of higher PSS and PHQ-15 scores in both groups. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Since the two groups were surveyed 9 months apart and were self-reporting, the study is limited by the differences in responsibilities, scheduling, and workload specific to the time of year. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Work-related health issues and occupational challenges shared by UK and US embryologists could be addressed by organizational enhancements and technology. Lower levels of stress and burnout among UK embryologists might be due to the HFEA-provided structure/certainty. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported without any external funding by TMRW Life Sciences Inc. which is developing and commercializing an automated platform for embryology. M.G.C. and M.S.L. are full-time employees and stockholders/shareholders with TMRW Life Sciences, and A.M. of Novavax, Inc. was an employee of TMRW Life Sciences. G.P. is a consultant for TMRW Life Sciences. The remaining authors declare no conflict of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT05326802; NCT05708963. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic stress alters reward sensitivity and contributes to anhedonia. Chemosensation is dominated by a hedonic dimension, but little is known about the association between chronic perceived stress and hedonic chemosensation in non‐clinical populations. In the current study, 325 participants (201 females) completed a questionnaire‐based survey measuring their chronic perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale; PSS), chemosensory pleasure (Chemosensory Pleasure Scale; CPS), and olfactory metacognitive abilities (odor awareness, affective impact of odor, importance of olfaction). For females, higher PSS scores significantly predicted lower CPS scores, which is mediated by the positive odor awareness. Moreover, negative odor awareness was identified as a moderator underlying the relationship between PSS and CPS scores in females but not in males. For females, higher PSS predicted lower CPS for those with lower, but not for those with higher levels of negative odor awareness. These results show that the link between chronic perceived stress and chemosensory anhedonia is pronounced in females, with olfactory perception playing a key role. The current study provides insights into the understanding of stress‐related anhedonia and into the development of effective treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal stress influences in utero brain development and is a modifiable risk factor for offspring psychopathologies. Reward circuitry dysfunction underlies various internalizing and externalizing psychopathologies. This study examined (1) the association between maternal stress and microstructural characteristics of the neonatal nucleus accumbens (NAcc), a major node of the reward circuitry, and (2) whether neonatal NAcc microstructure modulates individual susceptibility to maternal stress in relation to childhood behavioral problems. K-means longitudinal cluster analysis was performed to determine trajectories of maternal stress measures (Perceived Stress Scale [PSS], hair cortisol) from preconception to the third trimester. Neonatal NAcc microstructural measures (orientation density index [ODI] and intracellular volume fraction [ICVF]) were compared across trajectories. We then examined the interaction between maternal stress and neonatal NAcc microstructure on child internalizing and externalizing behaviors, assessed between ages 3 and 4 years. Two trajectories of maternal stress magnitude ("low"/"high") were identified for both PSS (n = 287) and hair cortisol (n = 336). Right neonatal NAcc ODI (rNAcc-ODI) was significantly lower in "low" relative to "high" PSS trajectories (n = 77, p =.04). PSS at preconception had the strongest association with rNAcc-ODI (r = 0.293, p =.029). No differences in NAcc microstructure were found between hair cortisol trajectories. A significant interaction between preconception PSS and rNAcc-ODI on externalizing behavior was observed (n = 47, p =.047). Our study showed that the preconception period contributes to in utero NAcc development, and that NAcc microstructure modulates individual susceptibility to preconception maternal stress in relation to externalizing problems. In the S-PRESTO population-based cohort study conducted in Singapore with 351 women and their children, higher levels of maternal perceived stress within the year before pregnancy were associated with increased dendritic complexity within offsprings' nucleus accumbens, indicative of a more advanced developmental profile. Variations in right nucleus accumbens microstructure significantly modulated the association between maternal perceived stress at preconception and externalizing behaviors in early childhood. Study findings suggest that maternal stress in the preconception period accelerates in-utero nucleus accumbens development, leading to differential risk to externalizing problems in later childhood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We aimed to estimate prevalence and incidence of stress, depression, and anxiety symptoms in Brazilians during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: We assessed 103 (54 women, 49 men) participants online in three periods of the pandemic: March 2020 (T1), April 2020 (T2), and June 2020 (T3). Estimates of prevalence and incidence were identified when mental health scores were two standard deviations above the mean compared to normative data. Mental health indicators were measured using the Perceived Stress Scale, the Filgueiras Depression Index, and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory – State Subscale. Results: At T1, 89% of individuals were below cut-off scores for stress, anxiety, and depression, which dropped to 35% by T3. Estimated stress prevalence was 1.9% at T1, 7.8% at T2, and 28.2% at T3. Estimated depression prevalence was 0% at T1, 23.3% at T2, and 25.2% at T3. Estimated state anxiety prevalence was 10.7% at T1, 11.7% at T2, and 45.6% at T3. Stress incidence increased by 7.8% from T1 to T2, and 23.3% from T2 to T3. Depression incidence increased by 23.3% from T1 to T2, and 15.5% from T2 to T3. Anxiety incidence increased by 9.7% from T1 to T2, and 39.8% from T2 to T3. Stress severity scores significantly increased from 16.1 ± 8.7 at T1 to 23.5 ± 8.4 at T2, and 30.3 ± 6.0 at T3. Depression severity scores significantly increased from 48.5 ± 20.5 at T1 to 64.7 ± 30.2 at T2, and 75.9 ± 26.1 at T3. Anxiety increased from 49.0 ± 13.4 at T1 to 53.5 ± 12.5 at T2 and 62.3 ± 13.4 at T3. Females had significantly higher anxiety scores than males by T3 (66.7 ± 11.8 vs. 57.4 ± 13.5). Conclusion: Prevalence and incidence of stress, depression, and anxiety significantly increased throughout the pandemic. The largest increase in stress and anxiety occurred between T2 and T3, and between T1 and T2 for depression. Severity of stress, depression, and anxiety increased throughout the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Musculoskeletal diseases are among the most common and costly illnesses across all age groups and various communities, leading to disability, incapacity, early retirement, and job loss. The present study aimed to develop a structural model of quality of life based on resilience with the mediation of perceived stress in women with rheumatoid arthritis. Methods: The research method was descriptive-survey with a structural equation modeling design. The statistical population included women with rheumatoid arthritis in the city of Isfahan. The women with rheumatoid arthritis referred to medical centers in Isfahan had at least one year of disease history. Data were collected using the Varni-Kazisnki and Keller Quality of Life Questionnaire (1996), the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, Antonovsky's Sense of Coherence Questionnaire (1993), Cohen, Kamarck, and Mermelstein's Perceived Stress Questionnaire (1983), and the Gratz and Roemer Emotion Regulation Difficulty Scale (2004). Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling and Amos26 software. Findings: The results showed that the direct effect of resilience on the quality of life of patients with rheumatoid arthritis was significant (β = 0.25; P < 0.01). The indirect effect of resilience through the mediation of perceived stress on the quality of life of patients with rheumatoid arthritis was significant (β = 0.16; P < 0.01). Additionally, the total effect of resilience through the mediation of perceived stress on quality of life was significant (β = 0.41; P < 0.01). Conclusion: It can be concluded that the structural model of quality of life based on resilience with the mediation of perceived stress was well-fitted, and perceived stress played a mediating role in the relationship between quality of life and resilience in women with rheumatoid arthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Transition to university, academic performance pressure, lack of sleep, personal relationships, and poor coping skills are the common sources of stress for undergraduate students. The health of students can be negatively impacted by high-energy, high-salt diets, irregular diets, and insufficient physical activity (PA), which can result in overweight and obesity. Aims and Objectives: To find out the relationship between PA and stress among male medical students. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 60 male undergraduate students in the age group 18-21 years of 1st professional MBBS. After taking a detailed history body mass index (kg/m2) was calculated. Then subjects were asked to fill out the perceived stress scale and global PA questionnaire to assess their stress and PA status. Results: In the present study there is a statistically significant relationship between the stress score and the PA. This shows that those students who were leading a more active daily or weekly schedule were exhibiting lower scores on the stress scale tool employed. Conclusion: The study revealed a highly significant (P < 0.001) correlation between the stress level and PA status of the students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the need to measure burnout, stress and mental health among pharmacy students has been emphasized in the literature, there is limited information on which validated scales should be used. The objective of this scoping review was to identify published studies that used validated scales for burnout, stress and mental health among pharmacy students to provide recommendations for implementation at schools/colleges of pharmacy. Thirty-two out of 153 articles published in the United States from 1 January 2000 to 30 September 2022 were included and categorized into studies measuring stress (20), burnout (4) and depression/anxiety (8). The most common validated scales used to assess stress and burnout among pharmacy students were the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and the Maslach Burnout Inventory and the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory, respectively. For mental health, anxiety was most commonly investigated using a variety of scales such as the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7; the Patient Health Questionnaire, 9-item was used to measure depression in two studies. Validity, ease of use, cost and generalizability are important considerations for selecting a scale. The PSS has been studied extensively in pharmacy students and has been correlated with other well-being domains. Studies that measured burnout and mental health (specifically, depression and anxiety) have less published evidence among pharmacy students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Human & Work / İş ve İnsan Dergisi is the property of Mugla Sitki Kocman Universitesi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: When evaluating the efficacy of mindfulness interventions, most studies take a linear approach to explore how an intervention impacts different outcomes for individuals, and rarely is the role of intention examined. This research takes a configural approach to consider how various elements of a participant's training expectations and their experience in the training condition combine to predict increases in psychological capital. Design/methodology/approach: Employees from hospital settings were randomized into three conditions (mindfulness training, active control (Pilates), and wait-list control group) and completed surveys at three time points (baseline, post-training and three months post-training). A qualitative comparative analysis was applied to see what combinations of motivational elements were associated with increases in psychological capital. Findings: We find that all three conditions can boost their psychological capital based on different configurations involving efficacy beliefs, baseline states of well-being (psychological capital and perceived stress) and changes in levels of mindfulness and perceived stress. Research limitations/implications: Individual characteristics, like motivation, expectancy and baseline needs, are an important consideration in addition to the training condition itself when determining whether a training is efficacious. Practical implications: It is of increasing importance that organizations find ways to support employee well-being. Offering a variety of psychological and physical interventions can improve psychological capital. Applying needs assessments that clarify the desires, needs and expectations employees hold may help with intervention efficacy. Originality/value: The current study offers an innovative methodology through which realist evaluation approaches can consider multiple factors to predict outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

BACKGROUND: Patients presenting for gynecologic surgery are a heterogeneous group. Preoperative quality of life may be a useful tool to guide postoperative management. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the key drivers of preoperative quality of life to improve counseling and postoperative management. STUDY DESIGN: This study analyzed preoperative survey results from 154 participants using the following surveys: National Institutes of Health Toolbox Global Health v1.2, Gastrointestinal: Gas and Bloating v1.1 13a, Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea v1.0 6a, and Sexual Function and Satisfaction Brief Profile (Female) v2.0, Perceived Stress Scale, the Vaginal Assessment Scale, and the Vulvar Assessment Scale. Survey results in the form of T-scores were compared in patients with endometrial cancer and patients with benign gynecologic conditions using the Kruskal-Wallis test. The multivariate analysis was performed using linear regression to adjust the comparisons for age, body mass index, and comorbidity. RESULTS: Of the 154 patients, preoperative diagnosis was benign in 66% (n=102) and endometrial cancer in 34% (n=52). Patients with endometrial cancer were more likely to be older, non-White, in lower income brackets, have higher body mass index, and be postmenopausal (P.05), when adjusted for age, the differences in global health quality of life between patients with benign gynecologic conditions and those with endometrial cancer became significant, because the endometrial cancer group was older than the benign group (P.05). Sexual interest was decreased in the patients with endometrial cancer both in the unadjusted and adjusted model; and vulvar complaints became significantly different between the groups when controlling for body mass index, age, and comorbidities (P

Introduction: Stress is an inherent part of the human experience, especially among medical students, due to academic pursuits and social commitments. The present study explores the intricate relationship of cognition with perceived stress levels, lung function, and Body Mass Index (BMI) in exercising and non exercising medical students. Aim: To find out and compare the levels of stress, cognition, BMI, and lung function in exercising and non exercising medical students. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Physiology, JSS Medical College, Constituent College of JSSAHER, Mysuru, Karnataka, India over a span of two months from February 2021 to April 2021. It included 110 participants categorised into an exercising group and a non exercising group. Stress and cognition were measured using the Perceived Stress Scale 10 (PSS-10) and the Modified Mini-mental State Examination (3MS), respectively. The BMI was calculated using Quetelet’s index. Pulmonary function was measured using a computerised spirometer. Associations were determined using a Student’s t-test, with p

Introduction: Psychosomatic diseases disrupt patients’ mental order, leading to chronic psychological injuries. Consequently, this study aimed to investigate the mediating role of health-promoting behaviors in the relationship between perceived stress and sense of coherence with psychosocial adaptation to the disease in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).Methods: The research method was descriptive-correlational and utilized Structural Equation Modeling. The study’s statistical population included patients with IBS referred to therapy centers and gastroenterologists in Isfahan in the autumn and winter of 2020-21. The statistical population comprised 340 patients with IBS, selected using a convenient sampling method. The applied instruments included the Psycho-Social Adaptation to Disease Scale (PSADS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) Sense of Coherence Questionnaire (SCQ) and Health Promoting Behaviors Questionnaire (HPBQ). Data analysis was conducted via Structural Equation Modeling and Bootstrap test using SPSS23 and AMOS23 statistical software.Results: The results showed that perceived stress, sense of coherence, and health-promoting behaviors directly affect psychosocial adaptation to disease. Furthermore, the results of the Bootstrap test showed that health-promoting behaviors have a significant mediation role in the relationship of perceived stress and sense of coherence with psychosocial adaptation to disease (P

To analyze the short-term (one month intervention and post-intervention) and long-term (six-month follow-up) effects of Jazz Dance on menopausal symptoms (somatic, psychological and urogenital), in addition to the psychological aspects in specific (anxiety, depression, mood, stress, and aging perspective), compared to the control group of menopausal women. Randomized clinical trial with early postmenopausal women divided into two groups: Jazz Dance Intervention Group (GIDJ) (n = 23), and control group (CG) (n = 24). The physical exercise group received interventions of two weekly sessions of 60 minutes each, for 16 weeks. The control group received monthly calls, educational lectures, and maintained their usual activities during the intervention period. Assessments with all participants occurred at baseline, after the 1st month, after the interventions, and at the six-month follow-up. The evaluations are assessed by questionnaires and include menopausal symptoms (Menopause Rating Scale), depressive and anxiety symptoms (Anxiety and Depression Scale), stress (Perceived Stress Scale), mood (Brunel Mood Scale), and aging perspective (Sheppard Inventory). There was a significant improvement in GIDJ outcomes post-intervention, such as menopausal symptoms (p = .001), psychological aspects (anxiety (p =  <.001), depression (p = .016) and stress (p = .030)); in the integrity domain (p = .011) for the aging perspective, and in the confusion (p = .028) and vigor (p = .044) domains for mood. Furthermore, the CG showed significant improvements in the happiness domain at one month of intervention (p = .043) from the perspective of aging. Jazz Dance is effective in treating symptoms of menopause, depression, anxiety and stress, especially with an intervention of at least 16 weeks duration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Chronic stress is a condition characterized by prolonged stimulation, leading to mental and physical weakness. It can have detrimental effects on individuals' mental health and cognitive function, potentially causing various health issues. This article explores the potential of non-invasive neuromodulation techniques, specifically transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS), in managing chronic stress and improving sleep quality. Methods: The study conducted a randomized, double-blinded, controlled trial with participants experiencing chronic stress. In total, 100 participants were randomly assigned to one of four conditions: the anodal tDCS group (n = 50), the sham tDCS group (n = 50), the taVNS group (n = 50), or the sham taVNS group (n = 50). Within each condition, participants received five sessions of either active treatment or sham treatment, with 20 min of tDCS over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (2 mA) for the tDCS groups, or taVNS on the left ear (20 Hz) for the taVNS groups. At baseline, post-intervention, and 4 weeks thereafter, we evaluated stress using the Lipp's Inventory of Stress Symptoms for Adults (LSSI), perceived stress through the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), and sleep quality via the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Results: The tDCS and taVNS interventions resulted in reduced stress levels, improved sleep quality, and enhanced perception of stress. Discussion: These findings suggest that tDCS and taVNS hold promise as effective treatments for chronic stress, offering a safe and accessible approach to improving individuals' wellbeing and overall quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The associations of suicidality with stress are poorly studied in schizophrenia. The study aimed to determine whether suicidality was correlated with perceived chronic stress and the cortisol fluctuations under stress tasks in schizophrenia. High suicidality was defined as a lifetime history of suicide attempts or suicidal ideation in the past 2 weeks. Individuals with schizophrenia and high suicidality (SZ‐HS, n = 59), with low suicidality (SZ‐LS, n = 207), and healthy controls (HC, n = 196) finished the Perceived Stress Scale. Then, they participated in an experiment that induced stress using the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Task and the Mirror Tracing Persistence Task. Negative affect was measured at baseline and after finishing each task. The salivary cortisol was collected before‐, after 20 min, and after 40 min of the tasks. SZ‐HS had elevated perceived stress than SZ‐LS and HC. Mixed effect models showed that stress tasks induced cortisol changes in all groups; cortisol of SZ‐LS was reduced more than HC, but SZ‐HS and SZ‐LS did not differ in cortisol fluctuations. SZ‐HS and SZ‐LS experienced similar negative affect changes during tasks and the difference in withdrawal rates was nonsignificant. SZ‐HS had an increased error rate than SZ‐LS. In conclusion, suicidality was correlated with high‐level perceived stress but did not result in differences in cortisol reactivities under stress tasks. It suggests the inconsistency between appraisal of stress and biological stress system disturbance among SZ‐HS compared to SZ‐LS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gynecological cancer patients face various stressors and suffer from severe psychological distress. The activation of family resilience supports patients to overcome daily stressors, yet the relationship between family resilience and psychological distress is poorly understood. The purpose of this study is to investigate the degree of psychological distress in patients diagnosed with gynecological cancer, and whether perceived stress mediate the relationship between family resilience and psychological distress. Methods: A cross-sectional study was undertaken on 358 gynecological cancer patients in China from September 2021 to November 2022. The participants completed surveys that included the Chinese Version of the Family Resilience Assessment Scale, the Perceived Stress Scale, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Distress Management Screening Measure, and socio-demographic questions. Using Pearson's correlation analysis to investigate the association between variables, and the bias corrected bootstrapping method was utilized to establish perceived stress as a mediator. Results: Chinese patients with gynecological cancer experienced a moderate psychological distress. In addition, psychological distress exhibited a negative correlation with family resilience and a positive correlation with perceived stress in gynecological cancer patients (both P < 0.01). Perceived stress partially mediated the correlation between family resilience and psychological distress (β=-0.182; 95% CI: -0.224 to -0.140; P < 0.001). The total indirect effect value was − 0.182, and the total effect value was − 3.060. Conclusions: The findings indicate that higher family resilience and lower perceived stress can reduce psychological distress in gynecological cancer patients, and family resilience also tends to reduce perceived stress in cancer patients. Clinical staff and psychologist should consciously cultivate patients' family resilience to reduce psychological distress. Meanwhile, identifying potential mediators between family resilience and psychological distress are able to promote the development and assessment of interventions in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global stress is widespread in today's post-pandemic world of political and economic uncertainty. Vibroacoustic technology is a vibrotactile intervention with multiple uses, but its impact on stress lacks interpretation. This research assessed if the vibroacoustic technology of a Vibroacoustic Sound Massage (VSM) can reduce psychological, physiological, and cognitive stress. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and electrocardiogram (ECG) and electroencephalogram (EEG) biosignals were used to quantify results. Participants were divided into Low-Stress and High-Stress groups. The ECG results show VSM increased parasympathetic activity for all participants, with the Low-Stress group being more affected. The EEG results indicate increased concentration, reduced arousal, and increased relaxation, with participant well-being non-significantly affected, though variability in this metric was homogenised after VSM. Together, these results validate VSM as an effective support tool for stress management; however, further research is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Perceived stress and depression were indirect effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in square-cabin hospitals. It was paramount to understand their mediating effects, which might detonate factors that led to mental illness. Materials and methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study to investigate perceived stress and depressive symptoms among patients with COVID-19 in Shanghai square-cabin hospitals from April 18 to May 19, 2022. The questionnaire included the Perceived Stress Scale 10, Patient Health Questionnaire 9, Perceived Social Support Scale, and the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale 10. Results: This study investigated the chain-mediating roles of perceived social support and resilience in the relationship between perceived stress and depression. Perceived stress positively predicted depression (r = 0.613, p < 0.01), negatively correlated with perceived social support (r = -0.318, p < 0.01) and resilience (r = -0.398, p < 0.01). In the chain mediating model, perceived stress had significant direct predictive effects on depression, and significant indirect predictive effects on depression through perceived social support and/or resilience. Conclusion: It showed that higher perceived social support and resilience were associated with lower perceived stress among COVID-19 patients, which might lead to symptoms of mild depression, and highlights the importance of resilience and perceived social support in reducing depressive symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]