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Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology

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01-01-2021 | Ebola Virus | Original Paper

Psychological distress among adults from the urban and rural areas affected by the Ebola virus disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Authors: Jude Mary Cénat, Sara- Emilie McIntee, Mireille Guerrier, Daniel Derivois, Cécile Rousseau, Rose Darly Dalexis, Jacqueline Bukaka, Oléa Makila-Balayulu

Published in: Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology | Issue 1/2021

Abstract

Purpose

Ebola virus disease (EVD) is associated with high anxiety and multiple bereavement that can induce severe psychological distress (SPD) in individuals living in affected communities. Using data from the EVD and Mental Health project (EboMH), this study assessed the prevalence and determinants of SPD symptoms in a representative sample of adults in communities affected by EVD.

Methods

A representative sample of 1614 adults (50% women) aged 18–85 years completed measures assessing exposure level to EVD, stigmatization related to EVD, and psychological distress.

Results

In total, 45.58% of individuals from the cities and villages affected by EVD reported SPD. Results showed significant differences for residence area, employment, age, education level, and religion, but not for gender. Exposure level to EVD (β = 0.11, p < 0.001; OR = 1.12, 95% CI [1.08–1.16]), stigmatization related to EVD (β = 0.06, p < 0.001; OR = 1.06, 95% CI [1.05–1.07]), and living in rural areas (β = 0.67, p < 0.001; OR = .51, 95% CI [.36–.72]) predicted SPD symptoms.

Conclusions

Evidence-based global mental health programs in high-risk mortality epidemic contexts should take into account the high psychological distress in the affected areas.

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Title: Psychological distress among adults from the urban and rural areas affected by the Ebola virus disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Jude Mary Cénat
Sara- Emilie McIntee
Mireille Guerrier
Daniel Derivois
Cécile Rousseau
Rose Darly Dalexis
Jacqueline Bukaka
Oléa Makila-Balayulu
Publication date: 01-01-2021
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Keyword: Ebola Virus
Published in: Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology / Issue 1/2021
Print ISSN: 0933-7954
Electronic ISSN: 1433-9285
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00127-020-01904-x

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Psychological distress among adults from the urban and rural areas affected by the Ebola virus disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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