Mental Wellness is dedicated to the rapid dissemination of high-quality Mental health research that can help us meet the challenges of the 21st century and capitalize on the promises ahead. Mental Wellness provides an ideal forum for the exchange of information on mental health, including research from the ‘core’ fields of psychiatry, psychology, neuroscience, and public health, as well as related fields such as nursing, genomics research, pharmacology, education, criminology, medical sociology, and others. It also supports the publication of interdisciplinary research, which cannot be defined by a traditional, more conventional scientific discipline. The journal strives to de-stigmatize, raise public awareness of, and help advance treatment and prevention of mental illness. To ensure rapid dissemination of information, Mental Wellness board aims to complete the review process of each paper within 3 months of its initial submission. We also publish special issues on relevant themes proposed by guest editors. We wish to encourage more contributions from the scientific community to ensure the continued success of the journal. Authors, reviewers, and guest editors are always welcome. We also welcome comments and suggestions that could improve the quality of the journal. Thank you. We hope you will find Mental Wellness informative.
Perfectionism, performance pressure, and self-esteem among software professionals: a cross-sectional study
Perfectionism and performance pressure are important determinants of psychological well-being among software professionals. This study examined the relationship between perfectionism (adaptive and maladaptive), performance pressure, anxiety, and self-esteem and identified factors independently associated with self-esteem. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 215 software professionals using convenience sampling. Data were collected using standardized instruments, including the Almost Perfect Scale-Revised, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Job-Related Tension Index, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7. Self-esteem was positively associated with adaptive perfectionism (r=0.555, p<0.001) and negatively associated with maladaptive perfectionism (r=-0.307, p<0.001) and anxiety (r=-0.431, p<0.001). Performance pressure was strongly associated with anxiety (r=0.660, p<0.001) but not with self-esteem (r=0.049, p>0.05). Regression analysis showed that adaptive perfectionism and performance pressure were positively associated with self-esteem, while anxiety and maladaptive perfectionism were negatively associated with self-esteem (p<0.001). In conclusion, adaptive perfectionism is associated with higher self-esteem, whereas maladaptive perfectionism and anxiety negatively impact self-esteem.
Copyright (c) 2026 the Author(s) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
A systematic review of community-based counseling interventions for improving mental health and social well-being among vulnerable populations in Nigeria
Nigeria faces a substantial mental health burden, with an estimated 40-50 million individuals affected and a treatment gap exceeding 85%. Vulnerable populations, including internally displaced persons (IDPs) and conflict-affected women, children, and adolescents, experience compounded risks and severely limited access to care. Community-based counseling interventions delivered through task shifting have emerged as a promising strategy to bridge this gap. This systematic review aimed to systematically map the existing evidence on community-based counseling interventions designed to improve mental health and social well-being among vulnerable populations in Nigeria. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, Springer, Frontiers, ScienceDirect, AJOL, Springer, Cambridge Core, BMC, and grey literature sources was conducted for studies published between 2014 and 2026. Eligible studies included peer-reviewed articles and program evaluations of community-based counseling interventions targeting vulnerable Nigerian populations. A narrative synthesis was employed to map intervention types, delivery modalities, and outcomes. A total of 12 studies met the inclusion criteria. Vulnerable populations included IDPs, conflict-affected adolescents, women, and primary care patients. Interventions included group cognitive-behavioral therapy, didactic counseling, and integrated mental health and peacebuilding programs delivered by lay counselors and non-specialist health workers. Key findings demonstrated significant reductions in depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and aggression. Community-based counseling interventions delivered through task shifting demonstrate considerable promise for improving mental health outcomes among Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations. However, the evidence base remains limited in geographic scope and methodological rigor. Future research should prioritize longitudinal, controlled studies across Nigeria’s diverse socio-cultural contexts to strengthen causal inference and inform sustainable scale-up.
Evaluation of the school feeding scheme in Nigeria: a scoping review of its impacts, challenges, successes, implications, and solutions to achieving Sustainable Development Goals
The National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme (NHGSFP) is Nigeria’s flagship school feeding intervention designed to reduce child hunger, improve school participation, and stimulate local agricultural production. This systematic review synthesizes evidence on its impacts, implementation challenges, successes, and contributions to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 4 (Quality Education). A systematic search of PubMed, AJOL, Scopus, ScienceDirect, BMC, Frontiers, and grey literature was conducted for studies published between January 2010 and March 2026, following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Eligible studies included quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research reporting primary data on NHGSFP outcomes in Nigeria. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute tools. Out of 312 records, 8 studies met the inclusion criteria. Evidence from the included studies indicates that NHGSFP is associated with improved school enrollment (11-42% relative gains), increased attendance, and enhanced household food security among participating smallholder farmers (40% food security among beneficiary farmers; 20% non-beneficiaries). Successes included local economic multipliers via smallholder procurement. However, nutritional outcomes remain inconsistent due to variability in meal quality, funding constraints, and limited integration of complementary health services such as deworming and water, sanitation, and hygiene. Implementation challenges include inadequate financing, weak monitoring systems, regional disparities, and governance inefficiencies. Despite these constraints, the program demonstrates economic benefits through local procurement and employment generation, particularly for smallholder farmers and women. Overall, NHGSFP contributes to multiple SDGs, but its impact is constrained by systemic and contextual challenges. Strengthening financing, governance, and integrated service delivery is essential to improve effectiveness. Further longitudinal and experimental studies are needed to establish causal impacts on health and education outcomes.
National home-grown school feeding programme
A systematic review of challenges facing climate change education in Nigeria and its public health consequences
Climate change poses escalating threats to public health worldwide, with low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria experiencing disproportionate risks from rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, flooding, droughts, and associated vector-borne diseases, malnutrition, respiratory illnesses, and heat stress. Education is widely recognized as a vital tool for building climate resilience, yet climate change education (CCE) in Nigeria faces persistent barriers, including fragmented curricula, inadequate teacher training, resource shortages, and low public awareness. This systematic review maps the challenges facing CCE in Nigeria and examines their linkages to public health consequences. The objectives were to identify barriers to CCE implementation, describe associated public health impacts in the Nigerian context, and explore interconnections between educational gaps and health outcomes. Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched PubMed, ScienceDirect, BMC, Frontiers, Scopus, African Journals Online, and grey literature sources from January 2010 to March 2026 using terms combining climate change indicators with education concepts restricted to Nigeria. Results highlight three dominant themes: curriculum and policy deficits, awareness and capacity gaps, and resource and infrastructural constraints. These barriers collectively limit adaptive behaviors and amplify disease burdens, particularly in rural and northern regions. Deficient CCE correlates with poor hygiene practices during floods and low uptake of heat-mitigation strategies, exacerbating malaria, cholera, and respiratory conditions. In conclusion, strengthening CCE through curriculum reform, teacher training, and multisectoral collaboration is essential to mitigate public health risks. Recommendations include integrating climate-health modules across all educational levels, scaling community awareness programs, and prioritizing rural infrastructure investment. Future research should evaluate intervention effectiveness using longitudinal and mixed-methods designs.
Integrating molecular docking and biological evaluation of metal-phytochemical complexes in Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline, memory impairment, and neuronal loss. Its pathogenesis involves multiple interconnected mechanisms, including amyloid-β (Aβ) aggregation, τ hyperphosphorylation, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and metal ion dyshomeostasis. Current therapeutic strategies primarily provide symptomatic relief, underscoring the urgent need for multitargeted approaches. Natural products have emerged as promising candidates due to their structural diversity and ability to modulate several pathological pathways simultaneously. Among these, triterpenoid glycosides such as momordicoside L exhibit notable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Recent advances highlight the potential of metal-phytochemical complexes in enhancing pharmacological efficacy. Complexation with metals such as copper may improve the stability, bioavailability, and biological activity of phytochemicals while modulating metal-induced toxicity associated with AD. Molecular docking studies provide insights into interactions with key targets, while in vitro and in vivo investigations demonstrate improved neuroprotective effects, including enhanced cell viability, reduced inflammatory responses, and cognitive improvement. This review emphasizes the integration of analytical characterization, computational modeling, and biological validation, supporting the development of metal-natural product complexes as innovative multitarget therapeutic agents for AD.
Factors contributing to mental health issues in Nigeria: a scoping review of their prevalence, associated factors, and patterns
Mental health disorders constitute a major but insufficiently addressed public health concern in Nigeria, shaped by intersecting socioeconomic, cultural, and systemic factors. This scoping review systematically mapped the prevalence, determinants, and patterns of mental health issues among diverse Nigerian populations. Following the Arksey and O’Malley framework and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews guidelines, comprehensive searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Frontiers, BMC, and African Journals Online for English-language empirical studies published from January 2005 to December 2025. Studies included reported prevalence rates or associated factors for mental health outcomes within Nigerian contexts. Data extraction and narrative synthesis were performed, and methodological quality was appraised using an adapted Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. A total of 12 studies encompassing more than 40,000 participants from community, student, clinical, elderly, internally displaced, and key populations were included. Prevalence of depression, anxiety, or psychological distress ranged from 5.5% to 53.5%, reflecting substantial heterogeneity across populations and study designs. Key contributing factors identified were socioeconomic disadvantage, cultural and religious stigma, trauma and conflict exposure, limited healthcare access, substance use, and demographic vulnerabilities. Large treatment gaps persist, with evidence that only a minority of affected individuals access formal care. Findings highlight that mental health challenges in Nigeria are driven by modifiable structural, societal, and healthcare barriers, underscoring the need for integrated primary care, anti-stigma initiatives, trauma-informed services, and targeted interventions for high-risk groups. Future research should emphasize longitudinal and intervention studies to inform effective policy and service delivery.
The efficacy and safety of psilocybin-assisted therapy for major depressive disorder: a meta-analytic review of clinical outcomes
This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesized data from 13 clinical trials (n=606) evaluating psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for major depressive disorder and treatment-resistant depression. Despite early enthusiasm, the pooled standardized mean difference (-0.79, 95% confidence interval: -3.98 to 2.40, p=0.63) revealed no statistically significant overall antidepressant effect, with extreme heterogeneity (I2=96.9%) across studies. Notably, the type of control group (active comparator vs. placebo/waitlist) accounted for 98.7% of between-study variance, with waitlist and low-dose comparators producing exaggerated effect sizes. Session frequency was a significant moderator: 2 to 5 psilocybin sessions yielded larger effects, while more intensive protocols attenuated benefit. Neither participant age nor follow-up duration significantly influenced outcomes. Evidence of reporting bias and small-study effects was detected (Egger’s test p=0.012). Sensitivity analyses demonstrated that no single study accounted for the non-significant pooled result. Overall, psilocybin’s antidepressant efficacy appears highly context-dependent—shaped by trial design, comparator, and session structure—rather than universally robust. These findings underscore the need for larger, rigorously controlled trials to clarify psilocybin’s therapeutic role in depression.
Gender-affirming hormone therapy and suicide-related outcomes in transgender and gender-diverse populations: a systematic review and meta-analysis
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the association between gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) and suicide-related outcomes (including suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, and suicide death) among transgender and gender-diverse individuals. It included 8 independent studies with 11 effect sizes. The pooled multilevel estimate was not statistically significant but pointed in a negative direction (log odds ratio = -0.3576; 95% confidence interval: -1.2768 to 0.5617; p=0.4458), suggesting a possible but not definitive protective effect of GAHT against suicidality. There was substantial heterogeneity among studies [Q (10)=170.5309, p<0.0001; σ2=1.7820; I2≈94.1%]. Moderator analyses showed that age group was significant [QM (2)=6.9350, p=0.0312], with mixed-age samples differing from adolescent samples, but adult samples did not significantly differ from adolescent samples. Comparator type, study design, and outcome domain were not significant moderators. Sensitivity analyses pointed to influential studies and evidence of funnel asymmetry and small-study effects. The conclusions highlight that while there is a non-significant trend toward a protective effect of GAHT, the evidence is limited by high heterogeneity, influential studies, small-study effects, and the predominantly observational nature of the data. Larger and better-characterized longitudinal studies are needed for clearer causal inference.
Culturally informed pharmacogenomics in opioid prescribing
This minireview examines how integrating cultural factors with pharmacogenomics can enhance opioid prescribing practices. Cultural context, including traditional beliefs, family dynamics, and collective identity, significantly impacts patient engagement and treatment outcomes, particularly among minoritized populations. Concurrently, genetic differences in opioid metabolism and response, notably involving genes such as CYP2D6, CYP2B6, OPRM1, COMT, and ABCB1, underscore the need for personalized pharmacogenomic approaches. Actionable genetic variants are not evenly distributed across populations, further highlighting the importance of culturally informed care. Combining culturally sensitive frameworks with pharmacogenomic testing can improve equity and effectiveness in pain management and opioid use disorder treatment. Key recommendations include integrating cultural competence into clinical pathways, expanding access to pharmacogenomic screening, improving provider education, and promoting inclusive research. Ongoing challenges include limited representation in genomic studies and practical barriers to implementation. Future efforts should prioritize developing scalable, inclusive models and evaluating long-term outcomes to optimize culturally informed pharmacogenomics in opioid prescribing.
Perceived stress and eating behavior among pharmacy students at a public university in Mozambique: a cross-sectional study
Academic stress is associated with eating behavior changes, but evidence from sub-Saharan Africa is still limited. This study examined the relationship between perceived stress and eating behavior among pharmacy students in Mozambique. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 40 second- and third-year pharmacy students at Lúrio University between June and July 2025. Perceived stress was assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale and eating behavior under stress was measured using the Salzburg Stress Eating Scale. Spearman’s rank correlation was performed to analyze the relationship between variables. Moderate stress levels predominated (97.5%, n=39). Academic pressure was the most frequently reported stressor. Regarding eating behavior under stress, 42.5% maintained habitual intake, 40.0% reported reduced consumption, and 17.5% reported increased intake. A weak negative correlation was found between perceived stress and eating behavior (95% confidence interval: -0.530 to 0.065; p=0.110), which was not statistically significant. Perceived stress alone may not be a strong predictor of eating behavior changes in this population. Cultural factors and individual coping styles may play important mediating roles among African university students.
Personality pathology and structure among prisoners based on Kernberg’s model
This study examined the prevalence of personality styles and disorders (PSDs) and their association with dimensions of personality organization, based on Kernberg’s model, among 97 male prisoners in Zahedan, Iran. The most prevalent PSD was antisocial personality disorder (25.8%), followed by schizoid, narcissistic, schizotypal, and negativistic (passive-aggressive) types, while depressive personality disorder was the least common (10.3%). Pearson correlation and regression analyses revealed that certain PSDs, specifically passive-aggressive, dependent, borderline, and depressive types, were significantly correlated with the subdomains of personality organization, including reality testing, primitive defenses, and identity diffusion. Notably, depressive personality disorder was a significant predictor for disturbances in reality testing and primitive defenses, while dependent and depressive types predicted greater identity diffusion. Antisocial, paranoid, schizoid, avoidant, obsessive-compulsive, schizotypal, rhapsodic, narcissistic, histrionic, and altruistic PSDs showed no significant associations with personality organization dimensions. These findings highlight both the high prevalence and the heterogeneity of PSDs among inmates and demonstrate that specific PSDs are related to structural aspects of personality organization, underscoring the importance of dimensional assessment for clinical intervention and rehabilitation planning in correctional settings.
Childhood emotional trauma and emotional breakdown: the mediating roles of attachment styles and child schema modes
This study examined the mediating roles of attachment styles and child schema modes in the association between childhood emotional trauma and emotional breakdown following romantic relationship dissolution among 120 medical students. Participants completed validated measures assessing childhood emotional trauma, attachment styles, child schema modes, and post-breakup emotional distress. Results revealed that childhood emotional trauma significantly predicted emotional breakdown, both directly and indirectly via attachment styles and maladaptive child schema modes. Insecure attachment styles (anxious and avoidant) and maladaptive schema modes (vulnerable, angry, enraged, and impulsive child) were positively associated with increased emotional breakdown, while secure attachment and the happy child mode were protective. Mediation analyses confirmed that both attachment styles and child schema modes partially accounted for the relationship between childhood trauma and emotional breakdown. These findings underscore the importance of cognitive-emotional mechanisms, particularly schema modes, in the psychological response to romantic loss. Clinical interventions targeting maladaptive schema modes may enhance resilience and mitigate distress among young adults experiencing relational loss. Limitations and future research directions are discussed.
Rosemary extract improves neuropsychiatric symptoms in methadone-maintained patients
Recent studies have demonstrated the neuropharmacological effects of Rosmarinus officinalis L. (rosemary) on cognitive and psychiatric functioning. Given the high prevalence of psychiatric disorders—including anxiety and depression—as well as cognitive deficits among patients maintained on methadone, this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy of rosemary extract in alleviating neuropsychological symptoms in this population. A total of 47 patients aged 18-60 years attending an addiction treatment clinic were randomly assigned to receive either 500 mg rosemary extract capsules or a placebo daily for 8 weeks. Standardized questionnaires were used to assess outcomes, including anxiety, depression, sexual dysfunction, sleep quality, and cognitive performance. Data were analyzed using GraphPad Prism version 10.3.1. Results indicated that rosemary extract administration led to significant improvements in anxiety symptoms, and favorable effects were observed in depression scores, cognitive functioning, and sleep quality compared to placebo. These findings suggest that rosemary extract may be a beneficial adjunctive therapy for neuropsychiatric symptoms in methadone-maintained patients, warranting further investigation in larger samples and longer-term studies.
Emotional balance and stress of students who take private tutoring for entrance selection to state universities in Indonesia
The objective of this study is to identify emotional balance and stress in students who take private tutoring for state university tryouts. The convenience sample consisted of 384 students (mean age=16.78, standard deviation=0.42) from whom student data were taken from the emotional balance instrument (positive and negative dimensions) and stress instrument (pressure from study, workload, worry about grades, self-expectation, and despondency dimensions). These results explain that emotional balance is negatively correlated with each dimension of stress, the majority of which is in the moderate category, and negative emotions are positively correlated with each dimension of stress, the majority of which is in the moderate category. In general, the null hypothesis is rejected, but there will be differences in the average emotional balance and stress scores among students based on gender. Recommendations and limitations of the study are explained at the end.
Mindfulness as a buffer against job burnout and teaching motivation decline in academia
Faculty members are central to higher education quality, yet increasing job demands have heightened stress and burnout, particularly in resource-limited settings. Mindfulness has emerged as a promising strategy to enhance well-being and teaching motivation while reducing burnout. This cross-sectional, descriptive-correlational study investigated the level of mindfulness and its association with teaching motivation and job burnout among 156 faculty members at Zahedan University of Medical Sciences in 2025. Participants (51.9% female, mean age 48.85) completed validated self-report questionnaires assessing mindfulness, teaching motivation, and job burnout. Results indicated moderate to low levels of mindfulness and average scores for both teaching motivation and job burnout. “Acting with awareness” was the strongest mindfulness facet, while “non-reactivity to internal experience” was the weakest. Emotional exhaustion was the most prominent burnout dimension. Statistical analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between mindfulness and teaching motivation and a negative correlation between mindfulness and burnout. These findings underscore the potential benefits of mindfulness in fostering motivation and mitigating job burnout among medical faculty, highlighting the need for targeted interventions in similar institutional contexts.
Enhancing the mental well-being of postmenopausal women using ExoTMS®
Mental well-being may be adversely affected during menopause. This study examines the effects of a novel ExoTMS® technology on its improvement. Postmenopausal female participants (n=14; 61.8±7.8 years; body mass index: 22.5±2.5 kg/m2) were retrospectively selected from a multi-center study. Participants underwent four transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) sessions. Evaluation was performed using the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale (WEMWBS), Subject Satisfaction and Mental Wellness Questionnaire, and Therapy Comfort Questionnaire. WEMWBS significantly increased (p=0.001) from a baseline of 54.4±9.4 (moderate well-being) to 62.8±8.8 (high well-being) at 3 months post-treatment. 92.9% of participants reported feeling happier and experiencing greater mental energy. All participants reported feeling less stressed and found the treatment comfortable. These findings suggest that ExoTMS may serve as an effective intervention for enhancing mental well-being in postmenopausal women.
Bridging global challenges and local innovations: multidimensional approaches to addiction prevention and treatment
Dear Editor, Addiction stands as one of the defining global health challenges of our era, marked by its multifaceted impact across diverse societies and the intricate interplay of individual, social, and structural determinants...
Copyright (c) 2025 the Author(s) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Enhancing quality of life in Iranian women with breast cancer: the efficacy of psychological interventions. A meta-analysis
This meta-analysis assessed the impact of psychological interventions on the quality of life of breast cancer patients in Iran, reviewing sources from 2006 to 2021, including theses, journals, and international research by Iranian authors. The study analyzed 40 clinical trials with effect sizes, sourced from databases like Magiran, Civilica, Normgs, Scientific-Research Journals, Irandoc, PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO, involving 1946 participants. The overall effect size was 0.45, with a significant level of p<0.001, indicating a considerable impact on patients’ quality of life. The highest effect sizes were d=1.91 and Fisher’s z (Zr)=0.84, while the lowest were d=0.28 and Zr=0.14. According to Cohen’s interpretation, these interventions have a moderate effect size, suggesting they can effectively improve the quality of life for breast cancer patients. The study highlights the potential of psychological interventions as a non-pharmacological strategy for enhancing patient well-being, emphasizing their importance in breast cancer care in Iran. This research supports the adoption of psychological interventions to improve the quality of life among individuals diagnosed with breast cancer.
Family size and children’s emotional adjustment: a comparative study of anxiety and aggression using the Family Drawing Test
This study aimed to investigate differences in anxiety and aggression among children from one-child, two-child, and multiple-child families using the Family Drawing Test. The research employed a causal-comparative design. Participants included 90 children aged 7 to 12 years (30 from each family type), who were purposefully selected from elementary schools in western Mazandaran and eastern Gilan provinces during the 2023-2024 academic year. The Family Drawing Test was administered, and data were analyzed using chi-square tests in SPSS-24. Findings revealed significant differences in anxiety and aggression levels across family types (p≤0.01). Children from one-child families displayed lower levels of anxiety and aggression compared to those from two-child and multiple-child families. However, no significant difference was observed between children from two-child and multiple-child families. The results suggest that family size and birth order can influence children’s emotional and behavioral development. The Family Drawing Test proved to be an effective tool for assessing inner emotional states such as anxiety and aggression in a non-threatening manner.
Maladaptive emotional schemas as mediators in the link between childhood emotional neglect and affective symptoms in medical students
This study explores the link between childhood emotional neglect and the development of depression and anxiety, focusing on the mediating role of maladaptive emotional schemas. Conducted at the Zahedan Faculty of Medical Sciences, the research involved 273 students who completed the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale, and the Leahy Emotional Schemas Questionnaire. Analysis using SPSS v22 and Hayes’ PROCESS Macro revealed that both childhood emotional neglect and maladaptive emotional schemas significantly predict symptoms of depression (adjusted R2=0.32) and anxiety (adjusted R2=0.34). The study confirms that maladaptive emotional schemas mediate the relationship between childhood emotional neglect and mental health issues. This implies that individuals with histories of childhood emotional neglect are more prone to developing maladaptive emotional schemas, which may lead to depression and anxiety. The findings underscore the importance of addressing childhood emotional neglect and maladaptive emotional schemas in therapeutic settings when treating depression and anxiety. The research highlights the need for targeted interventions that consider these factors to mitigate the risk of depression and anxiety in individuals with such backgrounds.
Health literacy and preventive behaviors among healthcare workers in southeastern Iran during COVID-19: a web-based survey analysis
This study examines health literacy and preventive behaviors during COVID-19 among healthcare workers in southeastern Iran. Health literacy, which encompasses skills like reading, listening, and decision-making in health contexts, significantly influences personal health responsibility and attitudes. The study used a descriptive-analytical approach, surveying 400 healthcare workers through an online questionnaire. The questionnaire addressed demographics, preventive behaviors based on guidelines from the Iranian Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization, and COVID-19 health literacy. Analysis in SPSS V. 21 revealed that avoiding hugging and kissing (32%) and wearing masks (28.7%) were the most common preventive behaviors. Among participants, 54% had sufficient health literacy, 32% were borderline, and 16% were insufficient. Female workers showed higher compliance with preventive measures, and 75.3% had received the COVID-19 vaccine. A significant link was found between health literacy levels and adherence to preventive behaviors (p<0.001). The results highlight that insufficient health literacy often hinders effective COVID-19 preventive behaviors among these workers. Consequently, targeted interventions are necessary to enhance health literacy and support better preventive practices in this group.
Disrespectful behaviors of professors in the educational environment from the perspective of medical students
The aim of this study is to examine the disrespectful behaviors of professors in the educational environment from the perspective of medical students at Zahedan University of Medical Sciences. In this descriptive-analytical study conducted in 2023, a total of 203 medical students (interns and externs) participated. Data were collected using Clark’s 24-item questionnaire based on a Likert scale, with subscales for disruptive-disrespectful and threatening-disrespectful behaviors. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, employing both descriptive and inferential statistics. The participants included 203 students, comprising 100 interns (49.3%) and 103 externs (50.7%). The results indicated that the most common form of disrespectful behavior by professors was threatening behavior toward students. The findings showed that most students believed threatening behaviors by professors were among the most disruptive elements in the educational process. Further research is needed to better understand such behaviors in academic settings and to offer solutions for minimizing their occurrence.
Cannabis use and breastfeeding: frequency of use, delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol in milk, and clinical strategies to reduce harm
As cannabis legalization expands, increasing numbers of pregnant and breastfeeding women may view it as a safe, natural alternative for managing health concerns. This article examines current research on cannabis use during breastfeeding, with a focus on delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration in milk. Frequency of cannabis use influences the amount of THC in milk and is related to self-reported health problems and adverse childhood experiences. This review also suggests clinical strategies for reducing risk while supporting maternal and infant well-being.
Personality traits and early maladaptive schemas in methadone maintenance patients vs. healthy controls: a comparative study
This research investigated the differences in personality traits and early maladaptive schemas between patients undergoing methadone maintenance treatment and healthy controls in Zahedan, Iran. The study involved 81 patients in methadone maintenance treatment and 81 healthy controls, assessing them using the Big Five Inventory - Short Version and the Young Schema Questionnaire 90-item. Data analysis using independent t-tests and Chi-square tests in SPSS v25 revealed significant differences in both personality traits and early maladaptive schemas between the study groups. The methadone group was more extroverted and neurotic, with no differences in openness to experience, conscientiousness, or agreeableness. They scored significantly higher in early maladaptive schemas (395.4±36.5) than the control group (317.9±32.8), indicating a higher likelihood of maladaptive schemas. Significant differences were found in specific schemas, such as “abandonment/instability”, “social isolation”, “negativity/pessimism”, “defectiveness/shame”, “mistrust/abuse”, “insufficient self-control”, “enmeshment”, and “failure to achieve”, with the methadone maintenance group exhibiting more maladaptive schemas. The findings highlight the importance of incorporating personality traits and early maladaptive schemas in therapy for substance users to enhance treatment outcomes.
Enhancing ethical hiring practices: a remedy for academic narcissism
In the contemporary academic landscape, ethical hiring practices are increasingly recognized for their critical role in countering academic narcissism, which is a condition marked by an excessive focus on personal achievements and self-importance, often undermining collaborative and community-oriented values. This review delves into the mechanisms by which ethical hiring can mitigate these narcissistic tendencies, emphasizing the importance of fostering an academic environment that prioritizes integrity, diversity, and genuine scholarly contributions. By examining the intersection of hiring practices and academic culture, the discussion highlights how strategic recruitment can serve as a foundation for a more inclusive and ethically grounded academic community.
Comparison of the effectiveness of entrepreneurship education and career counseling in reducing job choice helplessness among students
The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of entrepreneurship education and career counseling in reducing job choice helplessness among students. The statistical population of this research included all students studying at the Bandar Anzali branch of Azad University during the 2023-2024 academic year. The sample consisted of 45 students who were purposefully selected from volunteers willing to participate in the study. The participants were then randomly assigned to three groups: two experimental groups (entrepreneurship education and career counseling) and one control group. The instrument used in this research was the Job Choice Insolvencies Questionnaire. After conducting a pre-test, experimental interventions, and a post-test, the data were analyzed using covariance analysis and the Bonferroni post hoc test. The results of the covariance analysis indicated that both entrepreneurship education and career counseling are effective in reducing job choice helplessness among students. Additionally, there was no significant difference in the effectiveness of entrepreneurship education and career counseling in reducing job choice helplessness; both methods were equally impactful. Therefore, both entrepreneurship education and career counseling can be utilized to reduce job choice helplessness among university students.
Copyright (c) 2024 the Author(s) http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
A comprehensive narrative review on psychotherapies for patients with autism spectrum disorders
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are complex neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. Psychotherapeutic interventions must tailor to meet the specific needs of individuals with ASD, given their diverse presentation of symptoms and functioning levels. This narrative review explores the range of psychotherapies available for individuals with ASD, examining their methodologies, effectiveness, and suitability. By using targeted search terms such as “autism,” “autistic disorder,” “autism spectrum disorders,” “psychotherapy,” “psychological intervention,” and “psychosocial intervention,” an extensive review of publications in English from 2000 to 2024 was conducted. This review covered several databases, including Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. The review identified ten major psychological interventions for the treatment of individuals with ASD: behavioral therapies, developmental therapies, cognitive behavioral therapy, social skills training, speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, family therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, parent-mediated interventions, and dance movement psychotherapy. The main text elaborates on the effects of each intervention on various aspects of ASD. By providing this comprehensive overview, clinicians can select appropriate therapeutic strategies that cater to the individual profiles of those with ASD, ultimately enhancing therapeutic outcomes and quality of life for this population.
Unveiling covert psychopathy: a case report utilizing the Psychopathy Checklist-Revised scale in the forensic psychiatric setting
This case report explores the diagnostic complexities and treatment challenges associated with psychopathy and antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) in a forensic psychiatric setting. Utilizing the Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R) scale, we assessed a 29-year-old male previously detained for two attempted murders and investigated for insulting a public official. Despite a history of mood and psychotic symptoms, previous evaluations failed to identify underlying psychopathic traits. Our assessment revealed a PCL-R score of 33/40, indicating a clear picture of psychopathy. The subject exhibited aggressive and violent behaviors from childhood, including cruelty to animals and reckless actions. Diagnoses over time included attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders, reflecting significant diagnostic heterogeneity. The case underscores the importance of comprehensive psychopathy assessments in forensic contexts, particularly when previous diagnoses and treatments have been inconsistent. Our findings highlight the potential of the PCL-R scale as a valuable tool for identifying covert psychopathic traits, which are often underestimated. This study calls for further research into the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for psychopathy and ASPD, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions in correctional institutions to mitigate the risk of recidivism.
The relationship between academic expectation stress and self-defeating behavior and cognition: the mediating role of emotional self-awareness
Self-defeating behaviors and cognitions can significantly hinder individuals’ ability to achieve their goals. This study aims to explore the relationship between academic expectation stress and self-defeating behavior and cognition, with a focus on the mediating role of emotional self-awareness. Using a correlational design and structural equation modeling, we surveyed 200 first-year secondary school girls from villages in Roudbane city during the 2022-2023 academic year. Participants were selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using the Academic Expectations Stress Inventory, the Self-Defeating Behaviors and Cognitions Scale, and the Self-Awareness Outcomes Questionnaire. Analyses were conducted using Pearson correlation and structural equation modeling with SPSS v26 and AMOS v24 software. Results indicated that both academic expectation stress and emotional self-awareness directly influence self-defeating behavior and cognition. Additionally, academic expectation stress indirectly affects these outcomes through the mediating role of emotional self-awareness. These findings suggest that educational psychologists and school counselors should consider both academic stress and emotional self-awareness when developing strategies to prevent self-defeating behaviors and cognitions in students.
Prenatal olanzapine exposure and congenital talipes equinovarus (clubfoot): a case report and review of emerging evidence
Recently, concerns have emerged about the potential teratogenic effects of olanzapine, particularly its association with congenital malformations such as congenital talipes equinovarus (clubfoot). Evidence from a large Finnish study, which reported a 2.5-fold increase in musculoskeletal anomalies, as well as various case reports, suggests a significant link between in-utero exposure to olanzapine and these anomalies. This case report aims to add to the growing body of evidence by detailing a new instance of clubfoot following prenatal olanzapine exposure. A 25-year-old woman suffering from bipolar I disorder with psychotic features was treated with olanzapine during pregnancy, resulting in the birth of a male infant with clubfoot but no other malformations. This case underscores the importance of careful risk assessment and monitoring for pregnant women undergoing psychiatric treatment with olanzapine. Potential mechanisms, such as disrupted fetal musculoskeletal development due to olanzapine’s pharmacological effects, warrant further investigation. Comparative analysis with other cases highlights consistent patterns, emphasizing the need for further research to elucidate the mechanisms and risk factors involved.