Work-related quality of life (WRQoL) is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, particularly for medical interns who face unique challenges in their demanding environment.

This study aims to assess factors associated to work-related quality of life in a population of Tunisian Medical Interns.

A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to September 2024 among Tunisian medical interns using a Google Form’s questionnaire. They were asked about their sociodemographic characteristics and their working conditions such as number of working hours per day, number of night shifts per month, and number of patients seen per day. Quality of working life was measured using the the Work-Related Quality of Life (WRQoL) Scale which covered six domains: General Well-Being (GWB), Home-Work Interface (HWI), Job and Career Satisfaction (JCS), Control at Work (CAW), Working Conditions (WCS) and Stress at Work (SAW).

Our study included 141 interns with a mean age of 27.28 ± 2.42 years. Among them, 31 (22.1%) were married. The average working hours per day was 6 .42 hours, and the average number of patients seen per day was 12 patients. The average nightshifts done per month was 6. Age was statistically positively associated with all WRQoL’ domains. However, GWB and HWI were negatively associated with number of working hours per day (p=0.022 and 0.026 respectively) and number of night shifts per month (p=0.001 and 0.000 respectively). Moreover, JCS, CAW and WCS were negatively associated with number of night shifts per month (p=0.007, 0.002 and 0.000 respectively).

This study highlights the significant factors influencing work-related quality of life among Tunisian medical interns such as working conditions. By addressing these factors, it is possible to enhance the overall quality of life for medical interns, thereby promoting their well-being and improving their capacity to provide quality patient care.

None Declared

Personality encompasses stable traits, behaviors, thoughts, and emotions that shape how individuals interact with their environment. It stands to reason that personality can influence how a person responds to life’s challenges, essentially defining their level of resilience. Tunisian women, who frequently face a range of daily struggles, represent a significant group for exploring the dynamics of resilience. Understanding how their personality traits impact their ability to adapt and thrive amidst adversity provides valuable insights, making this an important area of study.

To examine the relationship between personality traits and resilience among Tunisian women.

This cross-sectional study surveyed Tunisian women aged 18 and above using an online questionnaire between June and August 2024. Personality traits were assessed using the 10-item Big Five Inventory (BFI-10), while psychological resilience was measured using the 25-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC 25).

Data were collected from 695 Tunisian women, with a mean age of 36.72 ± 12.23 years. Among participants, 24.7% were students, 56.5% were employed, 49.2% were married, and 50.6% had children. Regarding sexual orientation, 93.4% identified as heterosexual, 0.4% as homosexual, 3.3% as bisexual, and 2.9% as undefined. The average resilience score was 68.26 ± 14.09, with 26.3% of participants exhibiting low resilience. Mean scores for personality traits were as follows: agreeableness: 6.8 ± 1.86, extraversion: 6.1 ± 1.79, neuroticism: 6.33 ± 2.01, conscientiousness: 7.16 ± 1.94, and openness to experience: 8.03 ± 1.71. Resilience was positively associated with age (p < 10⁻³, r = 0.143), marital status (p = 0.022), sexual orientation (p = 0.001), and education level (p < 10⁻³), with 80% of those with only primary education showing low resilience compared to 24.2% of those with a university education. Personality traits showed significant correlations with resilience: agreeableness (p < 10⁻³, r = 0.165), extraversion (p < 10⁻³, r = 0.207), conscientiousness (p < 10⁻³, r = 0.367), and openness to experience (p < 10⁻³, r = 0.278) were positively correlated, while neuroticism was negatively correlated (p < 10⁻³, r = -0.482).

Personality traits are significant determinants of resilience in Tunisian women. Positive traits like agreeableness, openness, extraversion, and conscientiousness enhance resilience, while neuroticism has the opposite effect. Considering that personality is influenced by factors such as early childhood experiences and parenting styles, future interventions could focus on fostering these positive traits to strengthen resilience.

None Declared

An estimated 10% of children in the United States carry a diagnosis of ADHD (Li et al. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6). Parents, caregivers, and children themselves utilize search engines to better understand their diagnosis and treatment options as well as discover other resources such as finding providers or support groups. Furthermore, evaluating search trends may elucidate individual and societal barriers towards accessing treatment. (Zhao et al. Adm Policy Ment Health 2022; 49 357–373)

This study examines Google search trends for the term “ADHD” from 2019 to 2023 to shed light on public interest and awareness patterns.

A Google Trends search was performed for the term “ADHD” in the global search database from 2019 to 2023. Weekly absolute search volumes were exported for each year. A one-way ANOVA calculation including Tukey HSD was conducted using Social Science Statistics’ calculator, which was cross referenced with AAT Bioquest’s calculator.

The ANOVA analysis revealed significant differences in the number of searches across the five different years. The f-ratio value is 689.19733. The p-value is < .00001. Post hoc comparisons using the Tukey HSD test indicated that search results differed significantly from among all years except between the years 2019 and 2020. The average number of searches steadily increased from M2019 = 278201.4839, SD2019=38184.594 and M2023 = 642020.8824, SD2023 =33099.9021. There is a relatively steady level of interest in the search term throughout the year with slight fluctuations. Seasonal trends were examined, showing an increased number of searches in February, October, and June, and decreased searches in December.

Both the overall and temporal trends described in this study have important clinical ramifications. The general increase in search trend frequency suggests increased awareness not due to a significant change in prevalence. The seasonal trends noted above suggest that the increased search frequency is related to school-related activities, particularly year-end exams in June, while the decrease in December may reflect the shift in focus from academics during the holiday break. This study highlights the importance of having evidence-based resources be accessible and understandable to the general public

None Declared

Hypomentalizing may contribute to heightened social withdrawal and it has been related with an increased risk of and suicide attempt (SA). Although certain studies have identified a relationship between hypomentalizing and suicidal behavior, research on follow-up remains limited.

This study aims to examine the relationship between suicide reattempt and the progression of mentalizing within 12-months.

Our study included a cohort of 1,374 patients who committed a SA. We conducted assessments at the baseline and at a 12-months follow-up. We measured mentalizing using the RFQ-8, and evaluations of suicidal ideation and behavior employing the CSRSS. Demographics, clinical characteristics, and mentalizing were subjected to comparative analysis using the T-student and Chi-square tests.

A total of 310 participants committed a suicide reattempt in the follow-up period. Our results showed that reattempt group were significantly younger, more presence of female gender, suicidal ideation and planning, more previous SA, and higher hypomentalizing means.

Image 1:

Social cognition may play a crucial role in the suicide reattempt risk. Future research on the association between social cognition and suicidal behavior could help elucidate the associated factors and identify potential therapeutic actions.

None Declared

The significance of intimate life in a person’s personal and social experience cannot be overstated. This aspect is intricately woven into the clinical and internal picture of intentional (suicidal or non-suicidal) self-harm (SX), making it a crucial area of study.

Study of position on the issue of sexual problems and SX among participants of an open forum.

We conducted interviews with forty participants (90% women) with a mean age of 27 (range 17-43) years, using an original semi-structured questionnaire. This approach allowed us to delve into the issue of sexual problems and SX among participants of an open forum.

Тen thousand people were interested in the survey during two months of posting on the site, but < 0.5% participated. All questions were answered by 95%. The sample comprised young women, like most of our online polls. For almost 70% of respondents, issues of sexual life are burning and pressing questions, but only ¼ discuss «this» with a psychiatrist and only in terms of drug side effects. During routine visits, the doctors were not interested in the sexual life of about 80% of patients; ¾ of the women were not interviewed about the menstrual cycle or (all men) about erections or galactorrhea. Only ¼ of doctors are interested in the intent of SX. >70% indicate that forced abstinence «worsens» their mental state (makes them irritable), >¾ of singles and ½ family people masturbated 1-3 times a week («to feel alive»). >½ of married women are afraid of pregnancy, but refuse birth control as «harmful». >80% of family problems were associated with apathy and irritability and are considered the main obstacle to regular sex. > ½ report «habitual» weakness, lack of interests (including sexual), and suicidal thoughts for more than three months. <½ respondents link treatment to impotence and frigidity. ½ had SX experience (indistinguishable from suicide attempts) due to the loss of a loved one during their life. Patients considered SX to be a «natural» reaction to shame and mental pain and allowed repetition in a similar situation. Doctors do not regularly assess a patient’s risk of suicide.

The findings of this study underscore the need to bring sex and SX topics into the focus of routine psychiatric practice. The passive role of psychiatrists in clarifying patients’ problems that influence treatment adherence, well-being, and undertreatment of depression is a significant issue that needs to be addressed. The survey highlights two subtopics of greatest interest to patients: indestructible sex drive and micro social problems as ‘reasons’ for depression and SX. The ‘gray zone’ of therapeutic contact and satisfaction with care is an area that warrants further exploration.

None Declared

The Porto Municipal Health Plan for 2022-2024 prioritized initiatives targeting addictions within the community. Built in the collaboration between the Public Health Unit, the Faculty of Psychology (FPCEUP), and the Drug Addiction Intervention and Reduction Division (DICAD), Porto aimed to comprehensively address addiction-related challenges. This includes developing monitoring tools, identifying areas lacking intervention, and promoting innovative social programs.

To define and implement a plan from prevention to treatment of addictive behaviors and addiction within the Porto Municipal Health Plan.

After defining priorities within this scope, tasks were defined together with the different institutions of the Municipality, including disseminating information on tobacco and alcohol legislation and improving community literacy on health-conscious environments. Additionally, integrated projects focus on evaluating existing interventions, identifying best practices, and fostering collaboration among entities to address addiction effectively were listed as main steps.

By aligning with strategic objectives outlined in the Porto Municipal Health Plan, such as building citizen and professionals’ capacity, improving prevention strategies, and facilitating access to resources, Porto is addressing addictive behaviors comprehensively. Initiatives include capacity building, implementing intervention strategies, and promoting harm reduction approaches in recreational settings.

Porto’s efforts to combat addiction highlight its commitment to public health. Through targeted communication, integrated projects, and resource optimization, Porto aims to mitigate the impact of addictive behaviors and promote a healthier community, aligning with the Municipal Health Plan.

None Declared

Psychiatric assessment of psychotic disorders has traditionally relied on categorical classification systems, but there is a shift towards a dimensional approach in DSM-5 and ICD-11. Schizophrenia is increasingly viewed as a spectrum disorder, with genetic studies indicating shared risk factors among schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorder. However, there is currently no widely used transdiagnostic dimensional assessment tool in clinical practice. At Semmelweis University we have developed a scale which takes into account four major symptom groups (catatonia, affective-, positive and negative symptoms) and several important “specifiers” (disorganisation, bipolarity, prodromal symptoms, childhood onset, etc.). Clinicians should assess their patients with CPAN based on the long-term clinical presentation, contrary to PANSS and other cross-sectional tools, since our theory is that long-term traits represent underlying “biology” in a more precise manner than the rapidly changing status of patients, and therefore should show higher correlation with biomarkers like genetic and imaging data.

We aimed to test the clinical usability of CPAN and its alignment with DSM-5 diagnostic categories and medication correlations in outpatient settings. Additionally, we planned a validation process to assess the tool’s validity, interrater reliability, and test-retest reliability.

In our pilot study, six clinicians assessed 104 outpatient patients using CPAN, analyzing DSM-5 diagnoses and medications. Patients were clustered into four groups based on leading symptoms. In the validation study, 100 inpatients with severe psychotic symptoms will be assessed three times by two raters—one from the clinical team and one independent. We will compare CPAN’s validity to PANSS results and assess test-retest reliability with three assessments.

The pilot study demonstrated that CPAN is user-friendly, taking 1-2 minutes for familiar clinicians to complete. Four symptom clusters were identified: 1) schizophrenia with catatonic symptoms, 2) schizophrenia without catatonic symptoms, 3) schizoaffective disorder with negative symptoms, and 4) schizoaffective disorder without negative symptoms/bipolar disorder. Prescription patterns were correlated with symptom groups, but detailed analysis was limited due to the small sample size. Validation results are pending.

CPAN is a practical tool for assessing long-term symptom presentation in patients with psychotic disorders. Widespread use of this scale could provide valuable real-life data linking symptoms to medication use and clinical outcomes. The ongoing validation study will further establish the scale’s validity and reliability

None Declared

Informal caregivers are essential in supporting individuals facing mental health challenges, yet the demanding nature of their role can lead to significant distress and long-term psychological strain. International guidelines consistently highlight the critical importance of early caregiver support and identify psychoeducation for caregivers as one of the most effective interventions to support them. However, psychoeducational programmes for caregivers remain significantly underutilised. To address this pressing gap in mental health support, Rey et al. (2020), in collaboration with Unafam, the French national family association, developed the BREF programme. This innovative psychoeducational intervention is designed to provide early and systematic support for caregivers of people with severe mental disorders.

This study investigated the impact of the BREF programme, focusing on its potential to mitigate depressive symptoms and alleviate the psychological burden experienced by caregivers.

This study used a single-group pre-post design. It included family caregivers who participated in the BREF programme from November 2020 to March 2022. Changes in caregiver depressive symptoms (CES-D) and burden (ZBI) measured pre-, post- and 3 months after intervention. Caregivers’ satisfaction and perceived usefulness were also assessed.

Data from 206 family caregivers were analysed. The depression and burden scores significantly decreased immediately after the intervention (p<0.001) and at the 3-month follow-up (p<0.05). Additionally, 98% of participants reported being satisfied to very satisfied, 95% of them deemed it very to extremely useful.

The BREF programme demonstrated significant benefits, notably reducing caregivers’ depressive symptoms and burden. Designed for early systematic implementation this standardized, time- and resource- efficient intervention, offers à promising foundation for a structured and graduated support pathway for caregivers.

None Declared

Studies on the psychological impact of a vegan diet and its effect on mental health are still, although the interdisciplinary literature points to significant diet-related cognitions associated with the active choice of a plant-based diet. This study addresses this research gap by framing veganism as an identity-associated aspect of self-concept in young vegans and examines the influence of self-esteem resulting from the vegan diet on symptoms of unipolar depression in a biopsychosocial framework model.

veganism as an identity-associated aspect of self-concept

influence of self-esteem resulting from the vegan diet on symptoms of unipolar depression

alternative perspective on the connections between psyche and nutrition

In a representative sample of n = 659 students from German universities, the absolute and additional influence of diet-related self-esteem on depressive symptoms was investigated using hierarchical regression, taking biopsychosocial covariates into account.

It was found that the self-esteem experience of the test subjects specifically gained from the vegan diet exerts a statistically significant influence on depressive symptoms (B = - 37, SE(B) = 0.02, p <.001) and can also explain a statistically significant additional proportion of the total variance in a biopsychosocial model of depression (ΔR2 = .18, F [1,649] = 272.34, p <.001). Together, the model of eight covariates and nutrition-related self-esteem can explain 57% of depressive symptoms (R2 = .57, F [9,649] = 94.81, p < .001¸ f2 = 0.13). This statistically significant influence of diet-related self-esteem also persists in an exploratory study of different severity levels of depressiogenic distress

The results provide evidence of a psychological impact factor in relation to a vegan diet and identify psychological consequences and thus open up a new research perspective in clinical psychology.

None Declared

Tobacco smoke exposure(TSE) is a significant public health issue, children and adolescents, who are often involuntarily exposed through secondhand or thirdhand smoke.This exposure has been linked to a range of neuropsychiatric conditions and can negatively impact mental and physical well-being. In the U.S., TSE is prevalent among certain sociodemographic groups, including those with lower income and specific racial backgrounds.The goal of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of TSE and its association with neuropsychiatric comorbidities.

Assess TSE prevalence among U.S. children and adolescents

Examine sociodemographic factors influencing TSE

Analyze the link between TSE and neuropsychiatric conditions’ prevalence and severity

This cross-sectional study used data from the 2020-2021 National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH), a survey conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.Parent-proxy responses were collected in English and Spanish through mail and web-based surveys.A total of 91,404 children aged 0-17 were included for the analysis of TSE prevalence, while 79,182 children aged 3-17 were analyzed for neuropsychiatric comorbidities.The primary measures were TSE, assessed through household smoking behavior, and the presence of neuropsychiatric conditions. Statistical analyses included t-tests, Chi-Square tests, and multivariate regression models to identify associations between TSE, socio-demographic factors, and neuropsychiatric comorbidities, providing adjusted odds ratios and confidence intervals. Statistical analyses were carried out using Stata version 17.

TSE was identified in 12.9% of the sample population. The likelihood of TSE was higher among males and adolescents aged 11-17 years. Children from lower-income households and American Indian/Alaska Native backgrounds had a greater risk of TSE. Among children exposed to tobacco smoke, 36.4% had at least one neuropsychiatric comorbidity, with anxiety (15.7%), ADHD (15.5%), and conduct problems (13.7%) being the most common. Females had lower odds of anxiety and autism spectrum disorder(ASD)compared to males, and Asian children exhibited lower odds of ADHD and other conditions. TSE was associated with increased severity of neuropsychiatric conditions. Figure 1.

Image 1:

TSE is a significant concern among U.S. children and adolescents, particularly affecting males and those from lower-income families. Exposure to tobacco smoke notably elevates the risk and severity of neuropsychiatric conditions, with ADHD, behavioral and conduct problems, and learning disabilities being the most common co-occurring issues. These findings highlight the importance of early screening and intervention for youth exposed to tobacco smoke. Addressing sociodemographic disparities in exposure and implementing prevention strategies could play a critical role in reducing these negative health outcomes.

None Declared

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition which is underdiagnosed and undertreated in women. For decades, the ADHD field has called for more insight into female-specific therapy. Preliminary findings postulate that changes in sex hormones during the menstrual cycle may influence the effectiveness of psychostimulant medication. Yet, pharmacotherapeutic interventions tailored to women with ADHD remain scarce. Previously, our group showed an increase in mood symptoms in the premenstrual week in women with ADHD. Premenstrual worsening of depressive and ADHD symptoms represent a treatment challenge.

In our adult ADHD clinic, we noted several women describing exacerbation of their ADHD and depressive symptoms in the premenstrual week and/or insufficient effect of their established dosage of psychostimulant. We responded to the need expressed by these women by increasing their stimulant dosage in the premenstrual week, while monitoring the response and side effects.

This community case study of nine consecutive women being treated for ADHD and co-occurring conditions (including depression and premenstrual dysphoric disorder), reports our local experience of increasing the individually prescribed psychostimulant dosage during the premenstrual period. We methodically monitored the effect of this increased dosage on ADHD symptoms, mood and somatic symptoms for the following 6-24 months.

With premenstrual dose elevation, all nine women experienced improved ADHD and mood symptoms with minimal adverse events. Premenstrual inattention, irritability and energy levels improved, and now resembled the other non-premenstrual weeks more closely. All women decided to continue with the elevated premenstrual pharmacotherapy.

Our preliminary results demonstrate potential benefits of increasing premenstrual psychostimulant dosage in women with ADHD, experiencing premenstrual worsening of ADHD and mood symptoms. The results concur with previous findings of diminished response to amphetamines in the late luteal phase. Increased dosage may help combat premenstrual worsening of cognitive and emotional symptoms in women with ADHD, with significant clinical implications. Better management of premenstrual ADHD and mood symptoms in vulnerable women can improve treatment outcome and meet an unmet need. However, implementation should be individually explored. Further investigation of luteal phase psychostimulant dose adjustment is required for safe, optimal and individualised treatment for women with ADHD. Specifically, we are currently applying for funding to set up the ADAPT-trial (Adjusting Premenstrual Psychostimulant Dosage for Women with ADHD: Enhancing Efficacy).

None Declared

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by social interaction challenges, repetitive behaviors, and behavioral issues such as irritability, aggression, and hyperactivity. These symptoms lead to significant functional impairments, placing emotional and financial burdens on caregivers. Current treatment options include second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), but direct comparisons of their efficacy in managing ASD-related behaviors are limited.

This review aims to compare the efficacy and safety of SGAs and SSRIs in reducing behavioral symptoms in children and adolescents with ASD.

A comprehensive systematic review by Lamy et al. (2020) evaluated over 50 studies on pharmacotherapy for ASD, including randomized clinical trials (RCTs) of SGAs like risperidone and aripiprazole. Other studies focused on specific SSRIs, such as citalopram, in ASD populations. Additionally, two notable trials were included: Ghanizadeh et al. (2014), which compared aripiprazole and risperidone, and King et al. (2009), a placebo-controlled study on citalopram.

Lamy et al. reported that SGAs, particularly risperidone and aripiprazole, significantly reduced irritability scores on the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC) and Clinical Global Impression (CGI) scales (p<0.05), aligning with their FDA approval for ASD treatment. Ghanizadeh et al. (2014) also found that aripiprazole and risperidone reduced ABC scores (12.6 points for aripiprazole and 9 points for risperidone), though both were associated with side effects, such as increased appetite (34.5% for aripiprazole and 40% for risperidone) and drooling.

In contrast, King et al. (2009) found no significant improvement with citalopram over placebo (CGI-I improvement: 32.9% for citalopram vs. 34.2% for placebo) and noted more adverse effects in the SSRI group, including impulsiveness and insomnia. The review highlighted limitations, including methodological heterogeneity, lack of direct comparisons between SGAs and SSRIs, and variability in treatment duration.

In conclusion, SGAs appear more effective than SSRIs in managing ASD-related behavioral symptoms, particularly irritability. Despite limitations, SGAs show consistent benefits with a manageable safety profile. Future research should prioritize direct SGA vs. SSRI trials and longer treatment durations to inform clinical decision-making in ASD pharmacotherapy.

None Declared

Religious content often shapes the nature of psychotic delusions, particularly those involving guilt or grandiosity. Patients may interpret their faith as direct communication from a divine source, influencing both their thoughts and actions. This case report presents a 27-year-old male with a strong Evangelical background who experienced a sudden onset of manic and psychotic symptoms, including messianic delusions. He believed God gave him a divine ultimatum: either fast for 28 days or his mother would die. His response to this delusion—self-imposed starvation—led to life-threatening behavior, showcasing the impact of delusional guilt in religious psychosis.

This report aims to illustrate how delusional guilt in religious psychosis can lead to dangerous behavior, explore the role of religious context in shaping psychotic content, and discuss the clinical challenges and outcomes of pharmacological treatment in such cases.

Case report; a non-systematic review was conducted by searching academic databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar, using the key-words “religion and psychosis”, “transcultural psychiatry”, “religious delusions”.

The patient was admitted to a psychiatric unit after attempting self-starvation as a result of his belief that God had given him a life-or-death ultimatum. His psychosis included messianic delusions, interpreting license plates as divine messages. The patient exhibited manic symptoms, such as elevated mood, hyperactivity, and pressured speech. A treatment plan with Paliperidone, titrated to 9 mg/day, and Sodium Valproate, titrated to 1000 mg/day, was initiated. After two weeks of treatment, the patient’s symptoms showed significant improvement. His delusional intensity decreased, and he began to question the validity of his beliefs. Manic symptoms also diminished. By the end of the fourth week, the patient no longer exhibited psychotic thinking, and his insight into the irrational nature of his previous beliefs had increased. He resumed normal eating habits, and the risk of further self-harm related to delusional guilt was eliminated. The patient was discharged with ongoing outpatient follow-up and maintained on the same medication regimen.

This case illustrates the role of religious delusions in shaping dangerous behaviors, particularly when driven by delusional guilt. The patient’s belief that he was receiving divine communication leading to self-starvation highlights the clinical complexity of managing psychosis intertwined with spiritual beliefs. Cultural competence played a vital role in treatment, as understanding the patient’s religious context was essential in addressing his delusions. This case underscores the importance of individualized, culturally informed care in the management of religious psychosis.

None Declared

Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a genetic disorder resulting in chronic hemolysis and vaso-occlusive crises, which can lead to severe systemic complications. Schizophrenia is a major psychiatric disorder characterized by persistent psychotic symptoms, including delusions and hallucinations. The intersection of these two conditions presents unique clinical challenges, as the management of SCA may complicate the treatment of schizophrenia and vice versa. Despite the prevalence of such comorbid cases, there is a significant gap in research addressing the complexities of managing these conditions concurrently.

This case report aims to describe a rare and complex case of schizophrenia in a patient with sickle cell anemia, including the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management. Additionally, it seeks to highlight the challenges of managing these co-occurring conditions and to promote further research into integrated treatment strategies for such comorbidities.

We present a 32-year-old male with a history of sickle cell anemia and schizophrenia who was admitted to the psychiatric department at Razi Hospital, LaManouba. The patient was admitted following a suicide attempt driven by acute psychotic symptoms, including delusions and auditory hallucinations commanding self-harm. Upon admission, he was started on a regimen of benzodiazepines to manage severe anxiety and antipsychotic medication to address the hallucinations and delusions. The initial physical examination revealed no significant abnormalities. On the third day of hospitalization, the patient began exhibiting respiratory symptoms, including chest pain and difficulty breathing, which prompted further diagnostic evaluation.

On the third day of hospitalization, the patient developed respiratory symptoms including chest pain, fever, and dyspnea. Evaluation, including lab tests and imaging, revealed acute chest syndrome. Given the risk of benzodiazepines worsening respiratory issues, their use was discontinued, and Haloperidol was introduced at 5 mg to manage psychotic symptoms, with close monitoring for suicidal ideation. The hematology and pneumology departments initiated a treatment protocol involving oxygen therapy, intravenous hydration, paracetamol for pain management, and antibiotics (ceftriaxone and clarithromycin). Within a week, both psychiatric and respiratory symptoms significantly improved, leading to a reduction in supplemental oxygen and discharge with a comprehensive follow-up plan.

This case underscores the complexity of managing co-occurring schizophrenia and sickle cell anemia, highlighting the need for a multidisciplinary approach. Integrated treatment strategies are crucial for effectively addressing both psychiatric and medical complications in such comorbid conditions

None Declared

Religious delusions are a common symptom in patients with schizophrenia. They can be more difficult to treat than other delusions because they are usually held with more conviction [1], which makes them of great clinical relevance. Religious delusions occur in between one-fifth and two-thirds of patients with delusions [2].

Cross-cultural differences may provide a partial explanation, but it seems likely that individual socio-demographic variables, particularly the extent of personal religiosity, as well as genetic factors, may also play a role.

To assess the relationship between sociodemographic characteristics and religious activity in patients with schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder with religious delusions followed and hospitalised at the Arrazi psychiatric hospital in Salé.

This was a descriptive cross-sectional study using a questionnaire including socio-demographic criteria, clinical criteria and questions about religious activity by grouping patients into 5 categories: (1 = no religious affiliation, 2 = religious affiliation, but not actively religious, 3 = religious affiliation, somewhat active activity, 4 = religious affiliation, moderately active activity, 5 = religious affiliation, very active activity) to assess the relationship between sociodemographic characteristics and religious activity in patients with schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder with religious delusions followed and hospitalised at the Arrazi psychiatric hospital in Salé.

The inclusion criteria were as follows: both sexes with a diagnosis of schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder according to DSM 5 criteria and having a mystico-religious delusion.

The exclusion criterion was severe intellectual disability.

A total of 109 patients were collected.

Approximately 85% were male. Most had an average socio-economic status. 67% lived with their families and 15 were homeless. About 89% were unemployed.

About 78% of the patients were hospitalised and most had poor compliance. All patients had mystico-religious delusions, most thought they were prophets or angels, 10 believed they were God. Fourteen patients thought they were Al Mehdi AL montadar, 2 said they were the Holy Spirit. 22 had a delusion of possession.

77% had Islam as their religion, 12% Christianity and 11% no religious affiliation. About half of the patients had a religious affiliation but were not actively religious. Very active religious subjects were 3 times more likely to suffer from religious delusions than subjects with no religious affiliation.

Our data suggest that a high level of personal religious activity appears to be one of the risk factors for the onset of religious delusions. A high level of religiosity appears to increase the risk of developing religious delusions.

Further research is needed to examine the relationship between religiosity and religious delusions.

None Declared

In the present era, technology and medicine have become deeply intertwined, forming inseparable scientific disciplines. The mobile phone has become an omnipresent device, serving functions such as financial management, job organization, social networking, and internet access. While its benefits are undeniable, there is growing evidence of its potential pathological effects. One of the most recently identified issues is nomophobia—a term combining “no mobile,” “phone,” and “phobia,” which refers to the fear or anxiety of being without one’s mobile phone.

Nomophobia is considered a situational phobia of the contemporary era. Its symptoms include excessive reliance on mobile phones and pervasive anxiety about losing internet connectivity. Related conditions include “Ringxiety” and “phantom vibration syndrome,” where individuals perceive false notifications from their devices.

This study aims to assess the relationship between eating disorders (ED) and nomophobia. Additionally, it seeks to analyze the psychopathological components of nomophobia and evaluate the characteristics of the Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q), currently used for its assessment.

A questionnaire was administered at the Study and Care Unit for ED in Bologna, Italy, between January 2023 and May 2024. Alongside tests evaluating the social and psychopathological characteristics of the outpatients (including the STAI-Y for anxiety assessment), the Italian version of the NMP-Q was employed.

The study included 104 patients (97 females and 7 males) with an average age of 21.8 years (range 18-44). The results showed that 100% of the subjects exhibited symptoms of nomophobia, with 21.3% displaying severe nomophobia. Among these, 94.4% tested positive for state anxiety, and 100% for clinically significant trait anxiety. This suggests that nomophobia may reflect not only current anxiety symptoms but also an anxious trait, indicating a predisposition to heightened reactivity and anxiety in response to environmental stimuli.

The data highlight the alarming pervasiveness of internet addiction in contemporary society, with nomophobia being a significant manifestation. Given its substantial consequences, it is crucial to deepen our understanding of this condition and its underlying psychosocial determinants. This will enhance our knowledge and aid in developing more effective prevention strategies. However, a paradox arises: if nearly everyone is affected by nomophobia, it challenges the traditional definition of a disease. Further research into the NMP-Q test’s structure and specificity is necessary, as high prevalence rates may question its current measurement validity.

None Declared

The DiSCoVeR trial (The DiSCoVeR Project: Examining the synergistic effects of a cognitive control videogame and a self-administered non-invasive brain stimulation on alleviating depression) is a double-blind, sham controlled, randomized controlled trial (RCT) investigating the feasibility and efficacy of an innovative, self-applied treatment approach for patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD). The multi-site trial is conducted at three clinical trial sites (Hadassah, Israel; Riga Stradiņš University, Latvia; Ludwig-Maximilian-University, Germany). During the first study visit of this trial data on different patient baseline parameters were gathered including assesment of depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms and rumination.

The aim of this abstract is to examine the relationship between depression, rumination and anxiety in this patient sample. Rumination, often characterized by repetitive, negative thinking, can exacerbate symptoms of anxiety and depression by maintaining and intensifying negative emotional states. This cycle creates a challenging clinical problem making it difficult to break free without targeted interventions.

This analysis includes baseline data from 106 MDD patients enrolled in the DiSCoVeR trial as of April 2024. Depression severity was assessed using the Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), anxiety symptoms were measured using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire (GAD-7), and rumination was evaluated with the Ruminative Response Scale (RRS). Data were analyzed using the Jamovi statistical platform, applying linear regression model to explore the relationship between depression, rumination, and anxiety. All assumptions for linear regression were met prior to analysis.

The mean age of the participants in this study sample ranged from 18 to 63 years old (mean age 33.4 years). 65.7% of the participants were female. Regression analysis revealed a significant positive association between anxiety (GAD-7) and rumination (RRS), suggesting that increased anxiety symptoms are associated with higher levels of rumination (p < .001). However, age and gender were not significant predictors of rumination. While depression (MADRS) was moderately associated with rumination, this effect was not statistically significant. Educational level showed a marginal effect, with university-educated individuals showing higher rumination levels compared to those with professional education.

In this patient sample overall, anxiety (GAD-7 score) was the strongest predictor of rumination, while other factors such as depression, age, and gender did not show significant effects. Education level might have a marginal impact, especially for individuals with university education.

None Declared

The growing prevalence and impact of digital device usage in everyday life have brought technological addiction to the forefront.Nomophobia and social media addiction are also increasingly significant types of technological addiction among adolescents.

The objective of our study is to identify nomophobia and social media addiction in a community sample of adolescents and to examine their associations with psychiatric symptoms, self-esteem and perceived parental attitudes.

500 adolescents between the ages of 13-18 were included in our study.The entire sample completed a sociodemographic data form, Nomophobia Questionnaire, Social Media Addiction Scale for Adolescents Short Form, Children’s Anxiety and Depression Scale Child Form, Conners-Wells Adolescent Self-Report Scale Short Form, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and Parentıng Style Scale.

%56.6 of the sample had moderate or higher severity nomophobia and %31.4 had social media addiction.In both boys and girls, nomophobia and social media addiction were found to be positively correlated with attention deficit and ADHD index. In addition, in boys, nomophobia and social media addiction were found to be positively correlated with behavioral problems and hyperactivity. In girls, only social media addiction and behavioral problems were positively correlated. In both girls and boys, nomophobia and social media addiction were found to be positively correlated with RCADS subscales and self-esteem scale. In both girls and boys, nomophobia and social media addiction were found to be negatively correlated with acceptance-involvoment and psychological autonomy. In addition, a positive correlation was found between nomophobia and strictness-supervision subscale in girls. As a result of regression analysis: total anxiety was found to predict nomophobia in both girls and boys, total anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder were found to predict social media addiction in boys, ADHD index and major depression were found to predict social media addiction in girls. In the path analysis, it was found that behavioral problems and parental attention interacted with each other and predicted social media addiction; social media addiction predicted internalizing disorders both directly and indirectly through self-esteem.

The results of our study explain the relationship between nomophobia and social media addiction and psychiatric symptoms, self-esteem, and perceived parental attitudes. Considering that early detection and intervention of psychiatric disorders reduces the risk of addiction, our study is an important step towards raising awareness about technological addictions.

None Declared

Auditory Hallucinations (AH) can be distressing experiences lived by clinical samples but can also be observed in the general population. Predictive Coding Theories of AH argue that when strong priors are favoured over sensory input, AH would emerge. Powers and collaborators (2017) and Benrimoh et al. (2024) have employed the Conditioned Hallucinations task (CHT) to demonstrate that strong priors were linked to AH. In the CHT, conditioned hallucinations (CH) were created using tones, which neglects the fact that most patients describe AH as verbal and characterised by negative content. Consequently, little is known about the effect of the nature (i.e., verbal) and valence of the AH within the Predictive coding framework of hallucinations. More specifically, the role of emotional voice content in CH has not been explored.

Thus, our goal is to replicate and expand these results by manipulating the content valence of voices in the CHT. This will allow us to test a possible interaction effect of voice content and the proneness to AH on the rise of CH.

We will recruit 400 French participants from the general population presenting different levels of proneness to AH. Participants will undergo an adapted version of the CHT with two different blocs where either negative or neutral voice content will be presented. Following Powers et al. (2017), for both the negative and neutral conditions, participants will undergo a QUEST maximum-likelihood-based procedure to derive individual thresholds. After, they will complete 12 blocs, during which the number of signals present and their volume will decrease. A no-signal condition will also be presented. The speech presented will be French translation of Baumeister et al. (2022) stimuli. They were created to simulate verbal AH. Since some voice content resemble inner dialogue, we will measure the inner dialogue forms of participants through the Forms of Self-Criticizing/Attacking & Self-Reassuring Scale. Hallucination proneness will be measured through the Launay and Slade Hallucination Scale Extended we modified. Our local ethical committee approved this study following the Helsinki and APA principles.

We are currently collecting data and are not able to communicate any results at this time. Data collection should be done by April 2025. Our data will be analyzed through the signal detection theory, a logistic regression on the probability of saying a signal is present and through Hierarchical Gaussian Filter Analysis.

A better understanding of the mechanisms behind AH and the role of emotions will help us improve predictive coding theories of AH that can also used to improve interventions targeting them.

None Declared

The presence of large numbers of Ukrainians looking for refuge in Poland is a new experience for Poles. The ongoing war and the uncertainty of the situation of those displaced may cause anxiety and lead to stressful reactions, exacerbated by endlessly circulating information on hostilities. Therefore, the sense of security may be threatened not only among Ukrainians who have fled to Poland, but also among people who support Ukrainians, who offer them help and shelter. Prolonged support, if not accompanied by proper selfcare can increase the risk of burnout as well as lead to distressful emotional states, such as a feeling of helplessness, reluctance to provide further help, or even demonstrate hostility. The Polish government and polish NGO’s have pledged to help refugees from Ukraine, including the provision of mental health care. Raising awareness of the whole society and training employees from sectors other than medical may help in the proper protection of mental health of refugees and the people supporting them. Dividing the organization of mental health care into the four levels (Intervention Pyramid (Inter Agency Standing Committee, 2007)and offering support depending on the needs, ranging from building a basic sense of security, acceptance, and support for meeting the needs of refugees, to the level of highly specialized psychological and psychiatric assistance, enables the use of the resources of the entire society and specialists in an appropriate manner. By activating refugees themselves and training employees and volunteers of various sectors and fields of support, the goal of mental health promotion is spread across many environments, which mental health professionals themselves cannot cope with in these new, difficult conditions.

None Declared