<abstract xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">

<sec><h3>Introduction</h3>
<p>Environmental-related hazards are a global problem; consequently, an Environmental Worry Index (EWI) was developed; however, the psychometric properties of this scale in the Spanish population are unavailable.</p>
</sec>
<sec><h3>Purpose:</h3> <p>The objective of this study was to adapt and examine the psychometric properties of an Environmental Worry Inventory (EWI) in a Spanish-speaking student population.</p>
</sec>
<sec><h3>Methodology:</h3> <p>This study adopted a cross-sectional design. It used a snowball sampling technique to collect data using the compact questionnaire comprise of EWI, Climate Anxiety Scale (CAS), and Big Five Inventory (BFI-15) from 251 participants in 2023 among students of Autonomous University of Ciudad Juarez (UACJ), Juarez, Mexico.</p>
</sec>
<sec><h3>Results</h3><p> Results of exploratory factor analysis (EFA), the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO=0.891) and Bartlett’s Test of Sphericity (p &lt; 0.001) showed adequate data. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA; χ2 (5) = 78,595, CFI = 0.94, and RMSEA=0.078) demonstrated adequate goodness of fit. EWI was associated with CAS, and neuroticism dimension of BFI-15. It has an acceptable overall Cronbach Alpha coefficient (α = 0.890); the two subscale factors’ reliability coefficients ranged from .80 to .89.</p>
</sec>
<sec><h3>Conclusion:</h3> <p>The study concluded that EWI is reliable, valid and recommended for use among Mexicans especially the Spanish speaking students.</p>
</sec>
</abstract>

The Psychometric Properties of the Environmental Worry Index

<abstract xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">

<p><bold>Introduction</bold>: Mental health issues are prevalent, yet their treatment remains inadequate. Tuberculosis presents substantial mental health challenges. Their co-occurrence is a frequent phenomenon. However, the integration of mental health professionals or services is not a common practice.</p>
<p><bold>Purpose</bold>: To review the evidence about the relation between tuberculosis and mental health, and its consequences concerning the implementation of policies and services.</p>
<p><bold>Methodology</bold>: We conducted a comprehensive review using the MeSH terms “Tuberculosis” and “Mental Health” on PubMed. We identified and assessed systematic reviews, regular reviews, scoping review and meta-analyses for their appropriateness and relevance.</p>
<p><bold>Results</bold>: A total of 341 studies were accessed for eligibility and 17 studies were included. Mental disorders and tuberculosis are frequent comorbidities. Their relation is commonly described as “syndemic”. Shared risk factors, social vulnerabilities, and upstream social determinants are prevalent in both conditions. There is a potential for the integration of both conditions into policy and service organization.</p>
<p><bold>Conclusions</bold>: Mental disorders treatment gap could be shortened by addressing mental health problems among TB patients. The WHO Global End TB Strategy prioritizes integrated patient-centered care, and fostering collaborative partnerships between tuberculosis and mental health services could enhance its implementation.</p>
</abstract>

Syndemic Burden: Bridging the gap between Tuberculosis and Mental Health Care for Integrated Patient-Centered Solutions – a comprehensive review

<abstract xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">

<p><bold>Purpose</bold>: This paper describes and documents an innovative blended learning Global Mental Health: Trauma and Recovery certificate training course. This course combines a two-week face-to-face training in Orvieto, Italy with a five-month follow-up online virtual training as a learning experience for global health care practitioners. Continuing medical education (CME) accreditation is offered upon completion. This course utilized an innovative blended learning model with a community of practice approach, a combination of lectures and discussions, and online in-depth group case study discussions.</p>
<p><bold>Methodology</bold>: Data was collected by self-reported anonymous evaluation by participants of three continuous years of the CME Global Mental Health: Trauma and Recovery certificate training course sponsored by Harvard Medical School. One hundred fifty-five participants (n= 39 in 2011; n = 57 in 2012; n=59 in 2013) underwent a pre- and post-course evaluation to determine sustained confidence in performing medical and psychiatric care to traumatized patients and communities, as well as to determine their learning of the Global Mental Health Action Plan (GMHAP).</p>
<p><bold>Results</bold>: Over the course of three independent years, a total of 155 participants were evaluated. There was evidence for significant improvement in their confidence levels in all clinical areas (diagnosis; treatment of trauma; use of psychotropic medication) when comparing baseline to completion of the six-month course. All ten dimensions of the GMHAP and nine medical and psychiatric aspects of treatment revealed significant improvement in confidence levels. Regression analysis also indicated similar results after the adjustment of demographic covariates. Physicians and participants with mental health and social work background had significantly higher confidence. Participants who were MD’s or psychiatrists had higher confidence in most of the categories of confidence except for self-care, understanding culture, collaboration, and policy and financing. The model showed no difference in learning based upon gender and level of development of country of origin.</p>
<p><bold>Conclusion</bold>: The evaluation of this blended learning CME program provides evidence of significant enhancement of clinical practice and planning skills in health care practitioners working with highly traumatized patients and communities worldwide. This successful training over the past 18 years has gone far to achieve the health and mental health capacity building as requested by the Ministers of Health from post-conflict societies in the historic Rome meeting in 2004.</p>
</abstract>

University Medical School “Federico II,” Naples

Harvard Medical School Global Mental Health: Trauma and Recovery Course: What is the Global Impact? Three Year’s Results

<abstract xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">

<p><bold>Introduction</bold>: While the detrimental impact of the Russian-Ukrainian War on mental health of Ukrainian population has been well-documented, less attention has been given to mental health workers (MHWs) providing mental health support services amid the war.</p>
<p><bold>Purpose</bold>: To examine levels of domain-specific well-being in Ukrainian MHWs; identify and quantify the relative importance of factors associated with well-being; and examine interactions of risk and protective factors in relation to each well-being domain.</p>
<p><bold>Methodology</bold>: A convenience sample of 178 MHWs completed a survey that assessed their well-being, and sociodemographic, war-related, mental health, and psychosocial characteristics.</p>
<p><bold>Results</bold>: Lower levels of mental health difficulties such as anxiety and posttraumatic stress symptoms, and higher levels of psychosocial factors such as higher optimism, gratitude, and presence and search for meaning were associated with higher well-being. MHWs with high levels of protective psychosocial factors were more likely to report higher well-being even in the presence of mental health difficulties.</p>
<p><bold>Conclusion</bold>:. Results of this study provide insight into the levels and correlates of multiple well-being domains among Ukrainian MHWs amid the ongoing war. They further suggest that interventions to mitigate mental health difficulties and bolster protective psychosocial factors may help promote well-being in this population.</p>
</abstract>

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for PTSD

Sumy State Pedagogical University named after A.S. Makarenko

Well-being of mental health workers during the Russian-Ukrainian War

<abstract xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">

<p><bold>Introduction</bold>: For the first time COP28 have included Public Health in their climate change discussions. Given progress on climate change has many hurdles, from domestic, economic and corporate pressures, it is pertinent to explore what impact this inclusion might have and what specific challenges there might be in relation to global mental health.</p>
<p><bold>Purpose</bold>: This positioning paper considers whether the implication of the inclusion of Health at COP28 might bring about transformation in the way Global Mental Health is addressed. It also considers how it might transform how mental health professionals, but also all others involved in working with people with mental health issues, transform mental health. The paper considers challenges to be faced going forward and potential solutions. The author acknowledges they are sharing their position on this subject, but in doing so, hopes to generate wider discussion.</p>
<p><bold>Methodology</bold>: As this is a positioning paper, data has been derived from the argument and counter argument within the paper. Therefore, there is a possibility of the risk of bias.</p>
<p><bold>Results</bold>: Plans to improve mental health globally have focused on replicating a Western, Global North model. Despite over 10 years of the WHO Mental Health Action Plan, there continues to be a growing mental health pandemic, worsened by Covid-19. Mental ill- health is caused by multiple factors, many are national, regional and even localized. The Western Global North model does not factor this in sufficiently to bring about improvement.</p>
<p><bold>Conclusion</bold>: This paper evaluated whether by including ‘Health’ at the recent COP28, it would help transform Global Mental Health. What became clear, after reviewing previous policies and action plans, was that significant change and improvement had not occurred. Policy makers and professionals approach needs to focus on preventing mental ill-health rather than treating after the event. Additionally, decolonisation of policies and professionals education is required to co-create sustainable resilience with people/communities and reduce mental ill-health.</p>
</abstract>

Will Including Health at COP28 Mean Transformation of Global Mental Health Action? And will Mental Health Professionals transform to help achieve it?

<abstract xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">

<sec><h3>Introduction</h3>
<p>Analyzing numerical data from different countries around the world that have experience of participating in wars and resolving their consequences, it is important to consider the wide range of war effects on all spheres of society. This influence is discussed in the context of economic, political, state-building, demographic, and other spheres. Special attention is given to analyzing the consequences of this impact on individuals returning from war. These consequences are diverse and include physical and psychological problems, job loss, social exclusion, and other challenges that require an integrated approach to effectively address them.</p>
</sec>
<sec><h3>Purpose</h3>
<p>To analyze the main principles of medical and psychological rehabilitation of combat veterans, having conducted a comprehensive analysis of their links and constituent elements, and to consider possible ways of their implementation.</p></sec>
<sec><h3>Methodology</h3><p>We conducted a systematic search in the main electronic medical databases such as: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar until January 2024. We used theoretical methods such as systematic, bibliosemantic and retrospective, comparative analysis and generalization of the publication data of the conducted studies that considered links, components, principles and possible ways of their implementation in the field of medical and psychological rehabilitation of combat veterans. Relevant studies were identified by key words: war or combat veterans, rehabilitation, reintegration, psychoeducation, hub.</p></sec>
<sec><h3>Results</h3><p>The research revealed complex challenges in the system of medical and psychological rehabilitation of military veterans, including post-traumatic stress disorder, physical injuries, social isolation and limited resources. The analysis identified key principles important to the planning and implementation of rehabilitation programs, including individualization, comprehensiveness, accessibility, and integration. The results highlighted the importance of a systems approach and collaboration between various parties concerned for the effective implementation of the veterans’ rehabilitation system. The study suggests specific ways of the identified principles implementation. Understanding the modality of the medical and psychological rehabilitation system is a key aspect in improving the quality of rehabilitation and providing adequate support to veterans. In order to achieve these goals, a hierarchy of therapeutic goals was created determining the modalities of the medical and psychological rehabilitation system.</p></sec>
<sec><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>Effective medical and psychological rehabilitation for combat veterans should be based on the systematic organization of care, recognizing the importance of each component in ensuring coordination, efficiency and quality of services. Establishing clear therapeutic goals forms the basis for comprehensive psychological support, contributing to veterans’ self-esteem, mental health, and social integration, ultimately enhancing their overall well-being and quality of life.</p></sec>
</abstract>

From treatment to social reintegration: principles of medical and psychological support of veterans (on example of the Russian-Ukrainian war)

<abstract xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">

<p><bold>Introduction</bold>: The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has placed significant mental and physical health burdens on military personnel, including both elite combat troops and injured servicemen in rehabilitation. Understanding the factors that influence their health outcomes is crucial for developing effective support and intervention strategies.</p>
<p><bold>Purpose</bold>: This study aims to analyse the relationships between negative indicators of mental and physical health (PTSD symptoms and somatic complaints) and personal characteristics (resilience, self-efficacy, and Big Five personality traits) in two distinct samples of military personnel: elite combat troops and injured servicemen in rehabilitation. By comparing these groups, the study seeks to understand how personal characteristics influence health outcomes and whether the impact differs based on the context of military service.</p>
<p><bold>Methodology</bold>: The study involved 180 Ukrainian military personnel (all men) divided into two groups: 149 elite combat troops and 31 injured combatants in rehabilitation. Participants completed self-report measures assessing PTSD symptoms, physical complaints, resilience, self-efficacy, and personality traits. Descriptive statistics (means, standard deviations, ranges, skewness, and kurtosis) were computed, and independent samples t-tests and Cohen’s d were calculated to determine differences between the groups. Pearson’s bivariate correlations and Z-tests were conducted to examine relationships between health indicators and personal characteristics. Multiple linear regression analysis (using the forward method) was performed to construct prognostic models for mental and physical health outcomes.</p>
<p><bold>Results</bold>: Injured combatants exhibited significantly higher levels of PTSD symptoms, exhaustion, and various physical complaints compared to elite combat troops. In contrast, elite combat troops showed higher levels of resilience, self-efficacy, extraversion, and emotional stability. Regression models highlighted self-efficacy, resilience, and emotional stability as key predictors of reduced PTSD symptoms and physical complaints, with varying predictive values across the two groups.</p>
<p><bold>Conclusion</bold>: The study underscores the importance of personal characteristics in mitigating the negative health impacts of combat exposure within the global mental health landscape. Tailored interventions enhancing resilience, self-efficacy, and emotional stability are crucial, particularly for injured combatants. Future research should employ longitudinal designs and larger samples to further understand the dynamics of these relationships and support the well-being of military personnel on a global scale. By addressing these critical areas, we can develop more effective strategies to support the mental health and recovery of those affected by combat and conflict worldwide.</p>
</abstract>

Personality and Health in Military Context: A Study of Combatants and Injured Servicemen

AHEAD OF PRINT

Volume 7 (2024): Issue 1 (January 2024)

Volume 6 (2023): Issue 1 (January 2023)

Volume 5 (2022): Issue 2 (June 2022)

Volume 4 (2021): Issue 1 (October 2021)

Volume 3 (2020): Issue 1 (November 2020)

Mental Health: Global Challenges

 Mental Health: Global Challenges Journal is an open access, peer-reviewed journal, with the primary aim of promoting thought, dialogue, and debate on topics related to mental health. It is an issue and a reality of major global concern, though it is often left to the margins as a topic of conversation. With one of the major aims to challenge and breaking the stigma of mental health, whilst promoting better health and health care, this journal has a general focus on mental health, mental health care systems, approaches to better mental health, mental health challenges for individuals, families, and groups in different cultures and contexts, mental health and trauma, as well as mental health and conflict, amongst other related aspects.   More specifically, Mental Health: Global Challenges Journal is a journal dedicated to studies of international interest related to mental health and mental health care systems in the global context of social challenges. Therefore, we encourage papers which focus on a variety of topics related to this complex issue. Some examples are as follows: the impact of stigma on mental health and mental health care, mental health and migration, mental health in the time of military conflicts, mental health post conflict, mental health in the workplace, mental health and gender, societal attitudes and approaches to mental health, higher education and mental health care, interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary approaches to mental health, cultural as well as cross-cultural challenges related to mental health and related topics. The journal especially encourages manuscripts which may be of interest to policy makers and/or practitioners.   The journal accepts high quality English language manuscripts in the form of empirical research studies, case studies, theoretical articles, reviews, and some extended abstracts.   Archiving   Sciendo archives the contents of this journal in Portico - digital long-term preservation service of scholarly books, journals and collections.   Plagiarism Policy   The editorial board is participating in a growing community of Similarity Check System's users in order to ensure that the content published is original and trustworthy. Similarity Check is a medium that allows for comprehensive manuscripts screening, aimed to eliminate plagiarism and provide a high standard and quality peer-review process. 