1,721,137 research outputs found
LGBT + medical students and disclosure of their sexual orientation: more than in and out of the closet
No full textMedical students face many challenge in their academic path. The disclosure of their own sexual orientation may be problematic since it impacts negatively on their acceptance in the educational environmental and the course of their career. Mental health issues may also occur among medical students as consequences of their perceived homophobia as well as stigma after the coming out. Research shows that students’ attitude to the sexual orientation disclosure may vary across countries and cultures as well as students’ homophobic attitudes towards sexual minorities: the latter should be addressed since prejudice might affect the quality of medical care for LGBT+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) patients. We suggest that more education and training on LGBT + health issues is needed in the medical students’ core-curricula: this would improve the health care of sexual minorities and LGBT + students’ acceptance in the academic milieu
Exploring nicotine dependence treatment commitment and quality of care among Portuguese substance use disorder treatment professionals
No full textBackground: Smoking is highly prevalent among individuals with substance use disorder (SUD). No specific treatment policy exists for nicotine dependence treatment (NDT) in patients with SUD in Portugal, such as in most countries. Methods: We used the Index of Treatment Quality (ITTQ) and Tobacco Treatment Commitment Scale (TTCS) to assess NDT quality and commitment before and after training professionals who work in the Portuguese SUD treatment network (n = 203). The study assessed learning and competence through pre- and postknowledge tests, competence self-report, and intention-to-change questionnaires. The study carried out descriptive and inferential statistics using STATA software. We based the current study on the Revised Standards for Quality Improvement Reporting Excellence (SQUIRE 2.0). Results: Compared to psychologists, physicians/social workers had worse NDT perceptions (i.e., NDT should not be included in drug treatment programs; NDT could hinder client recovery; it is unfair to take tobacco away from these patients). The counseling offer level was low overall. However, the study found higher levels of smoking assessment in all regions. Knowledge of motivational interviewing, stages of motivation, and addressing return to use improved. Self-competency skills also increased following training. Conclusion: Treatment providers should be encouraged to implement counseling within NDT. Physicians and social workers should be aware of the importance of NDT for individuals with SUD. Attitudes and commitment to NDT for this subpopulation were quite similar to those found in U.S. studies. Our educational intervention increased learning knowledge and competence
Kleptomania as a neglected disorder in psychiatry
No full textKleptomania is an impulse control disorder characterized by the irresistible urge to steal not for monetary gain. Since its conceptualization, this categorical diagnosis has been conflated with common beliefs regarding the social class and gender such as the idea that women are intrinsically fragile and that people in the middle class were unlikely to commit theft. Also, its use has been controversial in the medical and forensic fields. This review of the literature will provide a historical excursus through the definitions of the syndrome and summarize the available pharmacological and psychotherapeutic options for its treatment. Currently, there is a lack of systematic studies regarding the clinical characteristics of kleptomania and its treatment options for practical standardized approaches
The outbreak of COVID-19 coronavirus and its impact on global mental health
No full textBackground: The current outbreak of COVID-19 coronavirus infection among humans in Wuhan (China) and its spreading around the globe is heavily impacting on the global health and mental health. Despite all resources employed to counteract the spreading of the virus, additional global strategies are needed to handle the related mental health issues. Methods: Published articles concerning mental health related to the COVID-19 outbreak and other previous global infections have been considered and reviewed. Comments: This outbreak is leading to additional health problems such as stress, anxiety, depressive symptoms, insomnia, denial, anger and fear globally. Collective concerns influence daily behaviors, economy, prevention strategies and decision-making from policy makers, health organizations and medical centers, which can weaken strategies of COVID-19 control and lead to more morbidity and mental health needs at global level
Manic Episodes Due to Medical Illnesses: A Literature Review
No full textThe body of evidence for mania as a secondary syndrome due to organic diseases is small. The clinical diagnosis and management of these patients are mainly based on clinical experience and on some case reports. Treatment should be focused on both the underlying medical illness and the control of acute symptoms. Mania due to a medical condition is relevant in the clinical setting, and thus more research is needed to add evidence-based recommendations to the currently available clinical knowledge. In this review, we summarize the latest information on the etiology, epidemiology, diagnostic aspects, and management of secondary mania
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