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While climate change affects millions of people in South and Southeast Asia, women and girls are disproportionately impacted, largely due to pre-existing vulnerabilities given their traditional gender roles and intensified adaptive capacity and sensitivity to climate change. They have often less representation and decision-making power in governance processes and structures involved in the development and implementation of climate change adaptation and mitigation policies. Moreover, they face mental health and psychosocial problems due to various climate-related stressors.
Objectives
The study aimed at exploring the perceptions of people living in contexts affected by climate change in order to better understand the impact on the psychosocial conditions of women and girls.
Methods
In 2023, online and in situ interviews were conducted with 30 individuals (15 women, 15 men) from the government, international and national organisations as well as academic and research institutions in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan. Moreover, eight focus group discussions were conducted in Bangladesh (Kurigram and Sathkira districts) and Nepal (Rasuwa and Udayapur districts) with 71 community members, including 40 women and girls (aged 14 to 54 years old) and 31 men and boys (aged 15 to 70 years old).
Results
In Bangladesh, both districts face extreme weather like drought and floods, which leads to the migration of men. An increased involvement of women in farming, alongside their household responsibilities. This has transformed the family dynamic and women, as household head, have become the primary decision-makers. In Nepal, there has been a lack of awareness among women and men on the impact of climate change on their living conditions. The significant shift in the traditional gender divisions of labour has not brought an equitable transfer of assets and resources that could help women to cope after a climate-related event. Ultimately, women suffer from mental health issues.
Conclusions
This study shows some causal links between climate change and the psychosocial conditions of women and girls which confirm the necessity to develop gender-responsive climate change strategies, to improve access to mental health services and to prevent long-term changes within communities.
The impact of migration on cardiovascular risk factors have been reported to be gender-specific. Obesity and cardiovascular disease are increased in those who migrate to Western countries.
Objectives
Our aim is to investigate changes in the dietary habits of women after migration, especially in schizophrenia women.
Methods
A systematic review was performed in PubMed, Scopus and PsycINFO databases from inception to October 2024 according to the PRISMA statement. Search terms: (diet OR food OR “dietary acculturation”) AND migration AND women. Studies were included if they were focused on dietary changes after migration in women. In a second step, we conducted electronic searches to find additional papers on schizophrenia.
Results
A total of 2046 records were screened, of which 36 studies were included.
(1) Socio-clinical scenarios of migration: a)Latin-American (n=5), b)African (n=7), c)Asian (n=17), Europe (n=2). Results: Weight gain after migration to developed countries, reduced dietary diversity and limited access to culturally appropriate foods are common (poor traditional-food trajectories). Early stages of migration are critical. Model of dietary transition during pregnancy (3 stages) and risk of gestational diabetes.
(2) Transnational migration (rural-urban, n=5). Indian women had higher intakes of both fruit and vegetables and fat. Migration from rural-to-urban and urban-to-urban areas was associated with obesity risk. Exception: rural migrants to Mongolia’s capital maintaining traditional lifestyles. Few studies focus on women with schizophrenia.
Conclusions
The dietary habits of migrant women may have implications for future chronic disease risk, particularly for those with schizophrenia. Early culturally sensitive weight-loss interventions for migrant women are recommended.
Clinically derived approaches take the different psycho-social and biological conditions into regard and thus render more homogeneous groups, than the current diagnostic criteria, like ICD-11 or DSM 5. Precision medicine, moreover, shows that the amount of drinking, the reason for drinking and thereby also gender seems to be relevant for testing different anticraving drugs. Precision medicine indicates the necessity for more homogeneous subgroups, in order to find differences in the effects of anticraving substances. Many typologies in AUD render more homogeneous subgroups (Lesch et al, 2020). They could increasingly be used for testing anticraving drugs. After presenting these basics in anticraving research, the results of two trials will be presented. First, some genetic results could only be defined in Lesch type 3 female patients (Procopio et al, 2013). Second, in a treatment trial of ondansetron the genetic conditions lead to better sobriety rates only in the not very high drinking group (less than 10 drinks per day) but not in the very high drinking group (Addolorato et al, 2024). Summarizing these research results we see that for anticraving trials we need even more carefully defined subgroups of AUD patients. References: Lesch OM, Walter H, Wetschka Ch, Hesselbrock MN, Hesselbrock V, Pombo S: Alcohol and Tobacco. Medical and Sociological Aspects of Use, Abuse and Addiction. Springer Verlag, 2nd Edition, 2020. Addolorato G, Alho H, Bresciani M, DeAndrade P, Lesch OM, Liu L, Johnson B.: Safety and compliance of long-term low-dose ondansetron in alcohol use disorder treatment. Eur.J.Intern Med, Sept. 127: 43-49; 2024. Procopio DO, Saba LM, Walter H, Lesch O, Skala K, Schlaff G, Vanderlinden L, Clapp P, Hoffman PL, Tabakoff B. Genetic markers of comorbid depression and alcoholism in women. Alc Clin Exp Res. Jun. 37 (6): 896-904, 2013.
Mental health stigma remains a significant challenge in Moldova despite ongoing progress in mental health services. The negative perception and stereotypes about mental disorders have been socially ingrained, resulting in negative attitudes, fear, or even humor directed towards affected individuals. Addressing this stigma is essential to improve mental health outcomes and integrate services effectively.
Objectives
The study aimed to evaluate public perceptions and attitudes towards mental health stigma in Moldova, identify common stereotypes, and suggest actions to reduce stigma.
Methods
The research employed a comparative study design using a structured questionnaire across two different time points: 2018 and 2022. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews utilizing the Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) method, ensuring data accuracy and consistency. The study covered eight districts, with a total sample of 2973 participants stratified by geographic region and demographic characteristics.
Results
The findings highlighted that the level of acceptance towards individuals with mental health issues was moderate, with participants showing more acceptance at a distance, indicating persistent stigma. Notable differences between urban and rural areas were observed, with urban areas showing a higher level of openness. Furthermore, stigma was significantly influenced by the level of education and age of the respondents.
Conclusions
Mental health services are currently available across all districts of Moldova, but there remains a need for ongoing improvements to ensure equal access to high-quality care and to minimize both geographical and stigma-related barriers. Ongoing training programs for healthcare professionals are vital for effectively reducing stigma and improving the quality of care for those facing mental health challenges, with a specific focus on non-discriminatory practices and empathetic approaches. To achieve successful mental health care, a collaborative approach that involves healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community stakeholders is essential. This multidisciplinary coordination is key to establishing a supportive and comprehensive care environment. Additionally, public awareness campaigns and educational initiatives targeting both the general population and healthcare providers are critical in reducing stigma and changing attitudes towards mental health, thereby encouraging more people to seek care. Finally, integrating mental health services into primary healthcare should be prioritized to enhance accessibility and continuity of care. This integration will also facilitate early diagnosis and timely intervention, leading to improved outcomes for patients.
Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) remains a major clinical challenge, necessitating novel and more effective therapeutic approaches. The BRIGhTMIND study is the largest transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) clinical trial conducted in the UK. This multicentre, randomised controlled trial compares the efficacy of connectivity-guided intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) with standard repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in patients with TRD. This talk will present key findings from the study, including response and remission rates, reported side effects, and key differences between the novel iTBS protocol tested and the conventional rTMS protocol used as the control condition. Additionally, we will explore the clinical implications of using functional connectivity to optimise stimulation targets. The results contribute to the growing evidence supporting TMS as an effective intervention for TRD and offer insights into the future of precision psychiatry in brain stimulation.
Discriminatory and abusive behaviors may strongly affect older LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, asexual, and more) adults, and poorer health is linked to discriminating practices. Shame is associated with ageism and sexual orientation-based discrimination and may be a significant impediment to aging well by undermining older adults’ sense of agency, health, and well-being. However, little is still known about older LGBTQIA+ adults who encounter double stigmatization.
Objectives
This study aims to explore the dimensions of shame and double stigmatization of older LGBTQIA+ adults.
Methods
The significant psychological challenges and relevant themes experienced by older LGBTQIA+ adults, as related to shame and double stigmatization, were illustrated by semi-structured interviews with 329 older adults in a qualitative study through content analysis.
Results
The results highlight four themes of shame and double stigmatization among older LGBTQIA+ adults, encompassing (1) ageism (86.5%), (2) sexual orientation-based discrimination (81.1%), (3) stereotyping (76.8%), and (4) social exclusion (72.3%).
Conclusions
The study reveals the profound negative effects of shame and double stigmatization on older LGBTQIA+ adults, emphasizing the need for inclusive policies and interventions to address multiple forms of discrimination and promote equitable treatment in aging populations.
Myoclonus-dystonia syndrome (MDS) is a rare childhood-onset movement disorder characterized by the combination of myoclonus and dystonia. It is caused by loss of function of the epsilon-sarcoglycan gene (SGCE) due to mutations, although the pathogenic mechanism is not fully understood. Deep brain stimulation is used in patients that are refractory to pharmacological treatment. A higher prevalence of psychiatric disorders has been observed in MDS patients, especially obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) (Timmers et al. Parkinsonism Relat Disord. 2019; 69 85-90). A dysfunction of cortico-basal ganglia-thalamo-cortical (CBGTC) loops is present in both conditions, but the mechanism by which they display high comorbidity is unknown.
Objectives
To determine the presence of OCD comorbidity in pediatric and young adult patients that are candidates for DBS treatment for motor disorders, and the effects that the treatment may have on OCD symptoms.
Methods
This study is part of an ongoing cohort (n = 34) of children and adolescents (at the time of diagnosis) receiving internal globus pallidus DBS as treatment for motor disorders in Vall d’Hebron Hospital. The candidates go through a psychiatric evaluation before the procedure, including the diagnostic interview K-SADS, to diagnose psychiatric comorbidity. Long-term evaluation is performed by subsequent visits to the specialist.
Results
Of the seven patients with SGCE+ MDS that underwent DBS treatment, four of them presented OCD symptoms before the procedure, two did not, and one did not receive an evaluation. Of the patients with OCD symptoms, all four of them showed significant improvement in motor function after DBS but had worsening of OCD symptoms. Some of the patients also had a worsening of other psychiatric symptoms, such as anxiety, mood and behavioral symptoms.
Conclusions
OCD symptoms are present in a significant proportion of our patients with SGCE+ MDS. OCD and other psychiatric symptoms worsened during follow-up in our patients, although it is not clear if this is due to DBS treatment or due to the natural course of the disorder. Further studies are needed to explore this observation.
People with a severe mental illness (SMI) have a higher prevalence of obesity than the general population. Weight gain is one of the main adverse side effects of antipsychotic treatment, leading to health complications, higher mortality and low treatment adherence in people with SMI. E-Health programs are increasingly used for weight loss.
Objectives
This systematic review aims to analyze target groups and the inclusion and exclusion criteria in evaluation studies of such programs, with a focus on the exclusion of individuals with SMI and the resulting gap in healthcare.
Methods
The systematic search consisted of studies in English using the databases PUBMED, PsychInfo and Cochrane Database, published between January 1, 2003 - February 29, 2024. Exclusion criteria were studies with a focus on programs other than weight loss or combined interventions. Further, we used the search terms: web-based, app* OR artificial intelligence* OR software OR online OR machine learning* OR digital* OR Internet AND weight loss OR body mass index OR weight reduction* OR body weight OR waist circumference OR obesity* OR BMI OR weight. The database search identified 4560 records, of those 633 duplicates were removed. The remaining 3927 records were further screened and 3584 were excluded, 343 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility. 117 full text articles were excluded with reasons and finally 226 studies were included in qualitative synthesis.
Results
Preliminary results showed that app recommendations were reported in only 44 out of 226 studies. Additionally, analysis of target groups for recommended apps indicated that most were designed for individuals with diabetes, closely followed by apps targeting maternity, hypertension or cardiovascular diseases and corporate health management. Notably, none of the apps were specifically designed for people with a mental illness. Moreover, a comparison of the frequency of exclusion criteria for mental vs. somatic vs. chronic illnesses in general resulted in: 77:54:105. The terminology used for exclusion specifically for people with a mental illness was often general (e.g. “mental impairments”, “any psychological problem”, “unstable emotional condition”).
Conclusions
The results point to deficits in the area of app recommendation and in sample selection. Specifically, people with a mental illness were most frequently excluded using vague terminology. Furthermore, there is an enormous lack of such programs for people with SMI. Knowledge about such gaps is crucial in order to avoid inadequate care for vulnerable groups. Excluding people with SMI from the development and subsequent evaluation of such programs may not adequately address their challenges and may lead to additional frustration experienced by this group due to inadequate app recommendations. The results suggest a potential stigmatization.
Disclosure of Interest
N. Khorikian-Ghazari: None Declared, A. Hasan Consultant of: Rovi, Recordati, Otsuka, Lundbeck, AbbVie, Teva and Janssen-Cilag, Speakers bureau of: Janssen-Cilag, Otsuka, Recordati, Rovi, Boerhinger-Ingelheim and Lundbeck, J. Grimmer: None Declared, I. Papazova: None Declared
Absenteeism is a significant issue affecting various professional sectors, and its increase within healthcare institutions is a major concern. This phenomenon is complex and multidimensional, involving numerous factors.
Objectives
To determine the rate of absenteeism among healthcare personnel, describe the socioprofessional characteristics of employees on long-term sick leave due to psychiatric disorders, and identify the main factors associated with this absenteeism.
Methods
This is a retrospective descriptive study conducted on all healthcare personnel in a Tunisian governorate who took long-term sick leave for psychiatric reasons between 2015 and 2020. Data were collected from medical and administrative records through the Regional Long-Term Sick Leave Commission and via a questionnaire conducted by phone
Results
Among the 5067 employees in healthcare facilities in the governorate, 388 (7.65%) had taken at least one period of sick leave due to psychiatric issues. The average age of absent personnel was 45 ± 9 years, with a range of 30 to 65 years. A significant majority of the absentees were female, accounting for 85.8%. Additionally, 78.8% of the absent employees were married. University hospitals (UHs) accounted for 75.6% of absenteeism cases, with nurses being the most affected professional group (40.5%). The duration of sick leave ranged from 1 to 60 months, with an average of 8.5 months. Depression was the most frequent psychiatric cause, accounting for 82.34% of cases. The analysis showed that depression was significantly associated with several factors, notably age (p=0.021), job position (p=0.049), and employment in UHs (p=0.027).
Conclusions
The results indicate high levels of absenteeism, emphasizing the urgent need for a comprehensive intervention plan. This plan should prioritize preventive measures, targeting both individuals and workplace organization.
Altered brain functional connectivity (FC) of patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) has been observed in the acute phase of the disorder, but it remains unclear to what extent these alterations recover during weight normalization.
Objectives
In this study, we used resting-state functional imaging data collected during hospitalization and six months post-treatment to investigate longitudinal changes in FC patterns in patients with AN during weight normalization. Since a core feature of AN is the disconnect between body signals and the brain, we aimed to elucidate whether treatment led to changes in the FC of the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), a part of the brain’s limbic system that plays a crucial role in integrating visceral, attentional, and emotional information.
Methods
Seventeen women with restricting type AN underwent MRI scans and assessments to measure BMI and eating disorder symptomatology (Eating Disorder Inventory- EDI) upon hospital admission and six months after discharge. Functional imaging data were processed using seed-based connectivity analysis with ACC as a seed.
Results
Longitudinal analyses showed a significant (p<0.05 FDR corrected) increased FC post-treatment between the ACC and the precuneus, specifically Brodmann area 7. Participants demonstrated significant BMI increases, although no significant changes were observed in clinical symptomatology assessed by EDI.
Conclusions
The findings indicate greater FC between the ACC and the precuneus as patients with AN complete treatment and undergo weight normalization. The precuneus is integral to one’s sense of self, perceived information integration, and reaction to cues. Therefore, increased FC between the ACC and precuneus might improve proprioception, body awareness, and frequency of body image disturbances—all abnormalities central to AN.
Sexuality is a central aspect of human life, encompassing its complexities and diversities. In the field of Psychiatry, Paraphilic Disorders remain a subject of ongoing controversy, including debates over the definition of paraphilia itself.
Objectives
The present work aims to present a review of the current state of the art regarding the evolution of Paraphilic Disorders, analyzing the evidence that supports this diagnosis, and promote the importance of evolution, understanding and non-stigmatization of sexualities.
Methods
Evidence-based review, using a PubMed research and selection of the most relevant studies on this topic, published in the last decade.
Results
An evolution was evident in the classification systems, where initially a pathologization of non-normative sexual practices predominated. Homosexuality and masturbation were understood as diseases, and as such susceptible medical and social control.
In DSM III, the concept of paraphilia, sexual arousal outside normal activity patterns, was introduced in an attempt to reduce stigmatization. But only in DSM V was the distinction made between Paraphilia and Paraphilic Disorder, the latter as causing suffering or dysfunction to the individual or others. This distinction marked a change in paradigm.
Conclusions
The definition and categorization of Paraphilic Disorders in the main classification systems has been influenced by changes in sexual and social norms over time, highlighting their influence on the recognition and treatment of paraphilias.
The view of human sexuality continues to be deeply marked by heteronormativity and reproduction as a social and cultural model, causing sexual practices outside this standard to be labeled as pathological. These diagnoses tend to focus on specific behaviors rather than considering the complexity of each person’s sexual experiences, and to be based on prejudices and stereotypes rather than robust scientific evidence.
The use of recreational drugs for sexual intercourse (chemsex) is a widespread practice in certain subgroups of the population in recent years. There is documentation of chemsex in men who have sex with men (MSM) but less data on its use in other populations (men who have sex with women, women, transgender women, transgender men) and its effects on mental health.
Objectives
Evaluate the use of chemsex in the population attended in a sexually transmitted infection (STI) consultation.
Methods
To evaluate the use of chemsex in the population attended in a sexually transmitted infection (STI) consultation, a survey was carried out on all patients who attended the STI consultation of the U. Ramón y Cajal Hospital between January and April 2022. The degree of anxiety and depression was assessed using the HADS scale.
Results
A total of 148 surveys were distributed, with 82 being completed. Among those surveyed, 56% had used drugs at some time in their lives, the vast majority of times associated with sexual relations. The most consumed drugs were alcohol, cannabis and poppers. There were no differences between MSM and non-MSM in this consumption (p= 0.073), but there were in the substances consumed: MSM consumed more gamma hydroxy-butyrate acid (GHB/GBL) (p= 0.031), mephedrone (p= 0.031) and poppers (p= 0.019). Using the HADS Scale, 34 patients suffered from anxious (41%) and 11 depressive symptoms (13%), with no significant differences between MSM and non-MSM.
Conclusions
Chemsex is a frequent phenomenon among patients attending in an STI consultation, both in the MSM and non-MSM population. It negatively impacts mental health, being associated with anxiety and depression. It is necessary to improve information to reduce drug use in this context.
Individuals with autism and intellectual disability encounter numerous challenges as they transition into adulthood. By analyzing case studies of students in both specialized and mainstream educational settings, I aim to highlight their perspectives and experiences.
These individuals grapple with a myriad of hurdles, from difficulties in communication and social interaction to challenges in academic and vocational pursuits. Through case studies, we witness the personal and societal barriers they encounter, highlighting the need for tailored interventions and support systems.
Early intervention and specialized education play crucial roles in empowering these individuals to thrive. By providing nurturing environments and equipping them with essential skills, we can foster independence and enhance their overall well-being. Additionally, community resources offer ongoing support beyond the school setting, further facilitating their transition into adulthood.
Central to our discussion is the importance of fostering an inclusive society that embraces neurodiversity. When individuals with autism and intellectual disability are valued for their unique perspectives and talents, they can contribute meaningfully to society. Through acceptance and understanding, we can pave the way for a more equitable future for all.
As global internet usage continues to expand, concerns regarding its effects on adolescent mental health have gained prominence. Cyberaddiction and anxiety-depressive disorders are increasingly recognized as interconnected among adolescents. Excessive use of digital platforms, social media, and online gaming can contribute to heightened stress, social isolation, and emotional instability. Understanding these dynamics is essential for developing effective mental health strategies and encouraging healthier online behaviors among adolescents.
Objectives
This study aimed to investigate the relationship between cyberaddiction and anxiety-depressive disorders among adolescents in Tunisia.
Methods
This is a cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study, that was conducted on adolescents aged 12 to 18, enrolled in three educational institutions in Sousse, Tunisia. Data were collected using the Young Internet Addiction Scale and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). A pre-established data collection form was used to gather additional demographic and behavioral information.
Results
Our study included a population of 416 adolescents, with a mean age of 15.05 ± 1.724 years. The majority of the participants were female (56.7%). Among the participants, 41.6% were high school students, and 58.4% were middle school students. Our results showed that 83.2% of participants exhibited problematic internet use, with potentially adverse effects on their daily lives. Additionally, 11.3% managed to maintain control over their internet usage despite occasionally exceeding planned time, while 5.5% experienced severe internet addiction, significantly impacting their personal and social lives Regarding internet usage patterns, the majority (64.9%) reported that social media was their primary online activity, while 35.1% preferred online gaming. The HADS revealed that 43% of the participants experienced varying degrees of anxiety disorders, and more than half (50.7%) showed symptoms of depressive disorders. Notably, 88.5% of the participants displayed symptoms of both anxiety and depression. A statistically significant correlation was observed between anxiety-depressive disorders and cyberaddiction (p = 0.008).
Conclusions
Our study highlights a concerning prevalence of both cyberaddiction and anxiety-depressive disorders among adolescents. These findings emphasize the urgent need for preventive measures and targeted interventions. Addressing these issues through education, mental health support, and regulated internet use could mitigate the negative impacts on adolescents’ well-being.
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a neurosurgical procedure in which thin electrodes connected to a neuro-pacemaker are implanted into deep brain structures to modulate pathological neuronal activity with electrical current. DBS is used for symptom relief in Parkinson´s disease (Groiss et al. TAN Disord 2009; 2 79–91) and is under investigation for several psychiatric conditions (Naesström et al. NJP 2016; 70 483–91). Severe and treatment-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) may be treated with DBS to achieve reduced OCD symptoms, ultimately aiming for an improved quality of life.
Objectives
Our objective is to present preliminary data on OCD patients’ self-reported quality of life related to the development of OCD symptoms, before DBS surgery, and up to two years after surgery.
Methods
Patients with severe OCD (n=12) were enrolled in an open-label clinical trial on DBS delivered into the brain area of the bed nucleus of stria terminalis (BNST), as previously described (Naesström et al. W Neurosurg 2021; 149 e794-e802). The patients completed the EuroQOL five dimensions questionnaire (EQ-5D-3L) and were assessed with the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (YBOCS) before DBS surgery and after six, 12, and 24 months. The paired t-test was used to analyze for group differences.
Results
The mean age at DBS surgery was 39.2 years (standard deviation [SD] 15.5) and the baseline YBOCS score corresponded to severe to extreme OCD (mean 33, SD 3.0). The mean EQ-5D index score was 0.62 (SD 0.11) at baseline and had improved to 0.74 (SD 0.13) at the two-year follow-up and the difference was statistically significant (t = 2.8, df = 7, p-value = 0.025). The EQ-5D VAS scores measured pre-surgery were low (mean 35.9, SD 22.2) and had increased two years post-surgery (mean 54.4, SD 21.0), but with no statistically significant difference (t = 1.9, df = 8, p-value = 0.093).
Conclusions
Quality of life in OCD patients two years after DBS surgery measured with the EQ-5D-3L showed an improvement two years following surgery for the EQ-5D index but not for the VAS scale. These preliminary data show that self-assessment with the EQ-5D-3L scale may be used to follow up on patients’ quality of life after DBS and longer follow-up periods are warranted.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by the abnormal accumulation of amyloid-β and tau proteins. Previous studies have demonstrated that early-onset AD (EOAD) has more rapid and significant tau accumulation compared to late-onset AD (LOAD). Particularly, postmortem analyses have shown greater tau accumulation in the nucleus basalis of Meynert (nbM) in EOAD. However, there is a lack of clinical studies that directly compare tau pathologies in EOAD and LOAD or explore their associations with clinical symptoms.
Objectives
To evaluate the tau accumulation patterns in the nbM and other brain regions defined by Braak stages (I/II, III/IV, V/VI) in EOAD and LOAD using 18F-florzolotau PET imaging. Additionally, to analyze the relationship between tau accumulation in the nbM and cognitive function.
Methods
The study included 38 amyloid-positive AD patients (15 EOAD, 23 LOAD) and 46 healthy controls (HCs). PET scans with 18F-florzolotau were performed, and the standardized uptake value ratios (SUVRs) of tau accumulation in the nbM and Braak stage regions were calculated using the cerebellum as the reference. Cognitive assessments were conducted using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and other neuropsychological tests. Postmortem brain tissue from six AD patients and two HCs was histologically analyzed to validate PET findings.
Results
EOAD patients showed significantly higher tau accumulation in the nbM than LOAD patients (p = 0.004). The SUVRs in Braak stage regions also tended to be higher in EOAD (I/II: p = 0.244, III/IV: p = 0.120, V/VI: p = 0.079). Correlation analysis revealed no significant relationship between nbM SUVR and Braak stage SUVRs in EOAD, whereas LOAD patients exhibited positive correlations in Braak stages I/II (r = 0.50, p = 0.014) and III/IV (r = 0.43, p = 0.043). In LOAD, nbM tau accumulation correlated negatively with MMSE scores (r = -0.55, p = 0.006). In EOAD, higher Braak stage tau was associated with a stronger negative trend in MMSE (III/IV: r = -0.37, p = 0.178; V/VI: r = -0.41, p = 0.126). Histopathological examination confirmed the presence of ghost tangles in advanced AD and intracellular tau in early-stage AD, supporting the PET imaging results.
Conclusions
The study highlights distinct tau pathology differences in the nbM and their impact on cognitive function between EOAD and LOAD. The findings suggest that while nbM tau pathology in LOAD is linked to disease severity, EOAD is influenced more by cortical tau pathology. PET imaging of tau provides a promising approach for enhancing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer’s disease.
Adolescent suicidal behaviors have seen a marked increase in incidence, particularly following the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic (Revet et al. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2023; 32 249–256). This surge has presented challenges for emergency and psychiatric services. It highlighted the need for improved understanding of predictive and protective factors linked to recurrent suicide attempts.
Objectives
This study aims to analyze the clinical trajectories of adolescents admitted to emergency departments for suicide attempts between 2019 and 2021 and to identify predictors of recurrence, with a particular focus on conditions that may elevate the risk of repeat attempts (Tomaszek et al. Front Psychiatry 2024).
Methods
We conducted a retrospective cohort study at the Montpellier University Hospital, examining pediatric emergency visits related to suicide attempts over three consecutive years (2019–2021). The dataset included patient demographics, psychiatric diagnoses, treatments prescribed, and hospitalization metrics such as duration and readmission frequency. Statistical analyses employed a multivariate linear regression to identify significant predictors of recurrence.
Results
The incidence of emergency visits for adolescent suicide attempts rose elevenfold from 2019 to 2021, reflecting the global trends in mental health deterioration post-Covid-19 (Lespes-Hislen et al. 2023). Recurrence rates were notably higher among patients initially admitted in 2021, with 54% of these adolescents re-presenting for subsequent suicide attempts, indicating a persistent crisis in mental health among this demographic. The selected model identified ADHD diagnosis, the use of mood stabilizers, and prolonged hospitalization as significant predictors of recurrence. In the regression model, each additional day of hospitalization was associated with an estimated increase in recurrence risk of 0.16 additional attempts per 1-day of hospital stay.
Conclusions
This study confirms an increase in suicidal behaviors after the pandemic and highlights the importance of personalized care, especially for adolescents with ADHD. The association between hospitalization duration and recurrence raises questions about the effectiveness of prolonged hospital stays in this population.
Mental illness stigma continues to be a significant challenge in healthcare. Trainees in different medical fields may have varying levels of exposure and understanding, which can shape their attitudes towards patients with mental health conditions.
Objectives
To examine differences in stigmatizing attitudes towards people with mental illness between Family Medicine trainees and psychiatry trainees.
Methods
A comparative study was conducted. Psychiatry trainees affiliated with the faculties of medicine in Tunisia (n=120) and Family Medicine trainees affiliated with the faculty of medicine of Sousse (n=206) were invited to respond to a survey comprising the Attribution Questionnaire (AQ-27), a measure that evaluates nine stigma factors, blame, pity, anger, help, dangerousness, fear, segregation, avoidance, and coercion. Higher scores indicated more endorsed stigma. Self-report measures of affirming attitudes were also used, including the Self-Determination Scale (SDS), the Empowerment Scale (ES), and the Recovery Scale (RS). Higher scores represent enhanced views of these concepts.
Results
In total, 94 psychiatry trainees and 66 Family Medicine trainees responded to the survey, with respective response rates of 78% and 32%. The two groups were comparable in terms of age, gender, family and personal psychiatric histories.
Family Medicine trainees reported significantly higher AQ-27 total scores (p=.042). Additionally, they reported significantly higher scores for blame (p=.025), dangerousness (p=.006), fear (p=.048), and segregation (p=.005) stigma factors.
No significant differences between the two samples were found in avoidance (p=.525), coercion (p=.379), pity (p=.741) and help (p=.092).
Concerning affirming attitudes, there were no significant differences between the two groups in SDS (p=.148), RS (p=.552), and ES (p=.727) scores.
Conclusions
Results revealed that psychiatry trainees endorse less stigmatizing attitudes towards patients with mental illness, particularly regarding the dangerousness of these patients. Nevertheless, they still endorse negative attitudes regarding the concept of recovery and affirming attitudes towards patients with mental illness. Anti-stigma interventions should promote not only increased contact but also other strategies that will promote believing in recovery and social inclusion.
Mental health of higher education students is a relevant topic, especially for students in the health field. The development of relaxation techniques in this population is increasingly recognized as crucial to promote psychological well-being and reduce distress.
Objectives
1) Study the associations between mental health and lifestyle in Portuguese college students in the health field; 2) Evaluate the effectiveness of a Yoga-based relaxation techniques on mental health and physiologic variables.
Methods
Study 1 had a cross-sectional design, with 107 participants, 76,6% females, average age of 21,33 years (SD=4,88).Study 2 employed a pretest-posttest design, with 3 timepoints: T0, T1, T2, with T2 being a follow-up after 3 months. Participants: 11 students, 81,8% females, average age of 26,82 years (SD=11,59).
Measures: 1) Mental Health Inventory (MHI-38); 2) Lifestyle questionnaire. In study 2, the intervention consisted of six face-to-face sessions, lasting 60 minutes each, with practical training of Yoga-based relaxation techniques and evaluation of heart and respiratory rate, and blood pressure before and after each session.
Results
Study 1 – 32,7% presented Distress, and we found significative correlations between sleep quality perception, global health perception and Mental Health (p<.001); male students who practice physical activity have more Positive Affect. Study 2 – In all sessions, the physiologic variables decrease in T1, and Distress and Anxiety decrease significantly in T1 (p=0,037; p=0,031, respectively). After the follow-up, the improvement in mental health remains significative (p<0,001).
Conclusions
The results suggest a relevant percentage of students with distress, and that the intervention program with Yoga-based relaxation techniques contribute to decrease heart, respiratory and the blood pressure rate. After the intervention and the follow-up, there is a decrease in distress in Portuguese college students. Suggestions for future studies would be to replicate the intervention with a control group and a larger sample.
Open-door policy is a WHO-recommended framework to maximise safety, prevent coercion, and enhance recovery-based practices during admission to mental health wards. This talk will describe the open-door policy intervention, present results from our 1-year RCT and preliminary 5-year results from the Lovisenberg Open Acute Door Study (LOADS). LOADS is a 5-year in-clinic dual RCT study of open-door policy co-created with user representative and staff in our inner-city acute mental health wards in Oslo, Norway. By combining random allocation, effectiveness outcomes and implementation research, LOADS aims to address the need for faster development of clinically relevant knowledge in mental health.