The Indonesian Journal of Public Health

ANXIETY, DEPRESSION AND PERCEIVED SOCIAL SUPPORT AMONG COVID-19 PATIENTS ADMITTED TO A COVID CARE CENTRE IN UTTARAKHAND, INDIA

Mohd Najmul Aqib Khan — 2025-11-25

Introduction: The mental health of individuals infected with the COVID-19 pandemic was impacted. There was an increased surge into panic and stresses; in the first year of the COVID-19 epidemic, anxiety and depression-like mental diseases surged 25% globally. Aims: This study assessed the levels of anxiety, depression, and perceived social support among individuals diagnosed with COVID-19, their predicting factors, and documented the correlation between these. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 346 asymptomatic to mildly ill COVID-19 patients. Hospital anxiety and depression scale assessed depression and anxiety, while MSPSS assessed perceived social support. SPSS version 16 was used for data analysis. Tests used included ANOVA, Pearson's rank correlation test, independent t-tests, and multivariate linear regression. A p-value below 0.05 was deemed statistically significant. Results: A total of 13.8 percent patients had comorbid depression and 32 percent, anxiety. 35.2 percent patients did not have enough support. A significant correlation between depression and anxiety, and a relationship of depression and anxiety with social support, was noted. The regression analysis revealed; substantial association between anxiety and depression with age, marital status, covid case in family, and hypertension: an association of diabetes mellitus was seen with anxiety only; and perceived social support was found to have a significant association with age, covid case in family, and presence of diabetes mellitus and hypertension. Conclusion: Significant number of COVID-19 experienced anxiety, depression, and a lack of social support.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BIOLOGICAL ASPECT OF LIFE WITH DEPRESSIVE DISORDERS IN THE ELDERLY AT THE SCHOOL OF ELDERLY

Anugrah Alifio — 2025-11-25

Introduction: Depressive disorders are one of the most common disorders throughout the world, with a prevalence reaching 5.7% in elders aged over 60 years. In the elderly, depressive disorders can make patients feel miserable, worsen medical conditions, and require a proper support system. Aims: This study aims to explore the relationship between physical activity, cognitive ability, and medical history with depressive disorders in the elderly population in Pondok Labu, South Jakarta, Indonesia. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative approach was utilized, involving elderly participants from the School of Elderly RPTRA Pinang Pola. Data were gathered via questionnaires, and analyses included univariate and bivariate methods, with the chi-square test assessing relationships between variables. Results: Among the 34 participants, 88.2% showed non-concerning levels of depression, while 11.8% exhibited light depression. Physical activity levels of intensity were light for 11.8%, moderate for 64.7%, and high for 22.3% of participants. Cognitive assessments indicated that 2.9% were below average, 94.1% were normal, and 2.9% were above average cognitive ability. Regarding medical history, 61.8% had up to two diseases, while 38.2% had more than two diseases. Bivariate analyses revealed no significant relationships between depression levels and physical activity (p=0.551), cognitive ability (p=0.118), or medical history (p=0.627). Conclusion: These findings suggest that depression may be influenced by factors beyond those studied here, highlighting the need for broader research on depression determinants in the elderly such as the level of loneliness and the function of family and friends in the elder’s environment.

DIETARY INTAKE, WORKLOAD, WORK FATIGUE AND STRESS LEVEL OF FEMALE WORKERS AT WOOD FACTORY IN EAST JAVA, INDONESIA

Dominikus Raditya Atmaka, S.Gz, MPH — 2025-11-25

Introduction : Study in a Semarang factory showed 91% workers experience work fatigue and stress, which then increase the probability of work accidents. Work stress created by various factors and influence physical and psychological imbalances, which affect the emotions, thought processes, and conditions of a person being abused. Aims : This study aimed to examine the relationship between work stress and mental workload, work fatigue, and nutrient adequacy levels. Method : We used cross-sectional data of 120 female workers at “X” wood factory located in Lumajang, East Java, Indonesia. Assessment of mental workload, work fatigue, nutrient adequacy levels (energy, protein, and vitamin C), and work stress sequentially using NASA TLX (National Aeronautics and Space Administration Task Load Index) questionnaire, Questionnaire from the Industrial Fatigue Research Committee (IFRC), SQFFQ (Semi Quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire), and a modified Questionnaire of the Management Standards and HSE Indicator Tool (HSE-MS IT). Results : The work stress of study participants 58.3% included in medium category, the nutritional adequacy was 50% normal category for energy, protein deficit 88.4%, and vitamin C deficit 80.0%. The level of work fatigue of respondents is moderate (48.3%) and high (1.7%). The percentage of respondent’s mental work is mostly included in high mental workload (63.3%). Workload (p=0.018) and protein adequacy (p=0.037) have correlation with work stress, while work fatigue (p=0.099), energy adequacy (p=0.117), and vitamin C adequacy (p=0.087) have no relationship. Conclusion : Work stress is related to mental workload, while work fatigue and levels of nutritional adequacy are not related.

DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH ANXIETY AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN OF POST-PANDEMIC COVID-19 IN CENTRAL KALIMANTAN

Thyrister Nina Asarya Sembiring — 2025-11-25

Introduction: Anxiety in the 3^rd trimester of pregnant women increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, ranging from 45.9% to 62% and occurs due to either a maturity crisis or a fear of childbirth. It has an impact on the health of the mother and the fetus. A preliminary study at a private mother and children hospital in Palangka Raya in December 2022 showed that 7 out of 10 3^rd trimester pregnant women experienced anxiety. Aims: to analyze the relationship between parity, education level, employment status, and income with anxiety level among 3^rd trimester pregnant women at a private mother and children hospital in Palangka Raya post-pandemic COVID-19. Method: An observational study with a cross-sectional approach and a representative sample size was 255 respondents from 3^rd trimester pregnant women using a non-probability sampling method and a questionnaire as the research instrument. Odds Ratios (ORs) and 95% Confidence Intervals (95% CIs) were calculated by using Multinomial Logistic Regression analyses. Results: Higher education was significantly associated with a low anxiety level (adj. OR 0.266, 95%CI 0.094-0.786; p= 0.012) as well as low income with moderate anxiety of 3^rd trimester pregnant women (adj. OR 0.121, 95%CI 0.024-0.613; p=0.011). Conclusion: There is a relationship between education level as well as income and anxiety among 3^rd trimester pregnant women at a private mother and children hospital in Palangka Raya.

PATTERNS AND IMPACT OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE AMONG YOUTHS IN BUSHENYI DISTRICT, WESTERN UGANDA: A MIXED METHOD APPROACH

Umi Omar Bunu — 2025-11-25

Introduction: Youth substance abuse is a rising public health concern globally. Over the past 20 years, youth substance abuse among youths aged 14-17 has risen to 71% in Kampala, Uganda. This study examines the patterns and impact of substance abuse among youths in Bushenyi District, Western Uganda. Aim: To assess patterns and impact of substance abuse among youths in Bushenyi District, Western Uganda. Methods: Quantitative data collected via structured questionnaires completed by 381 youths aged between 18 and 30 years were examined using chi-square and multivariate regression analysis. Quantitative findings were combined with thematic analysis of qualitative data gathered from focus group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews (KIIs). Results: Socially normalized and readily available substances through peer networks and unofficial supply chains were alcohol, marijuana, khat, and shisha. There were statistically significant correlations (p < 0.05) between substance usage and health problems. The findings revealed that 46.7% of users experienced withdrawal symptoms, 49.8% experienced blackouts, and 74% reported mental health issues. Only 19.4% of users sought therapy. Social repercussions included neglecting family responsibilities (32.5%), losing friendships (60.9%), and family conflict (51%). In terms of income generation, 28.4% turned to crime to support their habits, with 39.4% citing problems at work. Depression, parental neglect, and fighting when intoxicated were all validated as significant predictors by multivariate analysis. Conclusion: Youth substance abuse in Bushenyi District, Western Uganda, is a complex issue fueled by peer pressure, sociocultural acceptance, and a lack of proper mental health care.

A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN TIKTOK USE AND SOCIAL ANXIETY AMONG FEMALE STUDENTS AT SMAN 9 MAKASSAR AND SMA IT AR-RAHMAH MAKASSAR

M. Fais Satrianegara — 2025-11-25

Introduction: Adolescent social anxiety, particularly among females, is reported at 28.2% versus 25.4% among males. Globally, it affects about 7% of the population annually and contributes to higher risks of non-communicable and mental disorders. Social media, especially TikTok, is suspected to play a crucial role in this issue. Aims: This study compared the relationship between TikTok use intensity and social anxiety among female students from two educational settings: SMAN 9 Makassar (public) and SMA IT Ar-Rahmah (Islamic-based private). Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional design was used with 86 respondents selected through multistage and total sampling. Instruments included the Social Anxiety Scale for Adolescents (SAS-A), four questionnaires on social media use, and Welltory for physiological data. Results: Social anxiety was reported by 55.8% and 46.4% of SMAN 9 Makassar and SMA IT Ar-Rahmah students, respectively. The Mann-Whitney U test showed no significant difference between schools (p=0.163). The Chi-Square test revealed a significant relationship between TikTok use intensity and social anxiety (p=0.000). Duration of use also differed significantly (p=0.019), with SMAN 9 and SMA IT Ar-Rahmah students averaging 112.7 and 73.8 minutes/day. TikTok content type was significantly related to social anxiety at SMAN 9 Makassar (p=0.000) but not at SMA IT Ar-Rahmah (p=0.960). User activity and general social media intensity showed no significant link. Conclusion: Social anxiety levels did not differ significantly between schools, but TikTok use intensity and content type were strongly associated. Multilevel interventions involving screening, digital literacy, and policy collaboration are recommended.

EVALUATION OF ALCOHOL RISK SCREENING AND INTERVENTION USING ALCOHOL USE DISORDERS IDENTIFICATION TEST-10 (AUDIT-10) IN KOTA KINABALU, SABAH

Norsyahida Md Taib — 2025-11-25

Introduction: Alcohol consumption poses a significant public health concern due to its association with non-communicable diseases, social harm, and mental health issues. In Malaysia, the highest prevalence of alcohol consumption was in Sabah (28.6%) and Sarawak (31.2%), especially among indigenous and rural populations. Aims: This study aimed to examine demographic patterns linked to alcohol risk categories and evaluate the implementation of harm reduction interventions based on the Ministry of Health Malaysia’s 2013 community guideline. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted using secondary data from AUDIT-10 screenings collected between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2024 in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. Demographic variables included age, gender, ethnicity, and citizenship. categorised. Risk levels categorized AUDIT-10 scores, and associations with demographic factors were examined using chi-square tests. Intervention implementation was assessed based on documentation aligned with national guidelines. Results: Of the 1,066 records analyzed, males were significantly overrepresented in higher-risk categories χ² (3, N = 1066) = 51.14, p < 0.001). Indigenous groups formed the majority across all risk levels. While most participants were Malaysian citizens, non-citizens were more common in the low- and very-high-risk groups. Age distribution showed minimal variation across categories. However, incomplete records on intervention delivery limited the assessment of compliance with national protocols. Conclusion: The study underscores elevated alcohol risk among males and indigenous populations. Gaps in intervention delivery highlight the need for enhanced training and culturally tailored strategies. Strengthening data quality and implementation fidelity is crucial to improving alcohol harm reduction at the community level.

ANXIETY DISORDERS AND DEPRESSION IN CHILDREN WITH FUNCTIONAL SOMATIC SYMPTOMS- A CASE-CONTROL STUDY FROM INDIA

Sreedevi P A — 2025-11-25

Introduction: Nearly 10% of children and adolescents suffer from functional somatic symptoms (FSS) which are persistent, bothersome bodily symptoms not having demonstrable organic pathology. Associations have been reported between children’s FSS, anxiety, depression, and certain parental factors. Aims: (i) compare the anxiety and depression levels between children with FSS and children not having FSS, (ii) identify the child and parent-related risk factors of FSS. Methods: Case-control design was used for this cross-sectional study. Cases constituted a hospital sample of 60 children, aged 9-15 years, who presented with FSS. Age, gender and class-matched 60 school children, who did not disclose any FSS while screening with Children’s Somatic Symptoms Inventory-24 constituted the control group. Both the groups were administered with Revised Children’s Anxiety and Depression Scale, Illness Behaviour Encouragement Scale, and Lum Emotional Availability of Parents (Child report). Results: Cases scored significantly higher than the control children on anxiety, depression (p<0.001), and parental illness behaviour encouragement (p<0.001), but reported low emotional availability of both parents (p<0.01). Significantly large number of children in the FSS group showed anxiety disorder (p<0.05), separation anxiety disorder (p<0.001) generalized anxiety disorder (p<0.01), and major depressive disorder (p<0.01). The stepwise multiple logistic regression analysis revealed over all anxiety, separation anxiety, generalized anxiety and high parental illness encouragement as the risk factors of FSS. Conversely, higher perception of maternal emotional availability significantly reduced its risk. Conclusion: Children with FSS must be screened for anxiety and depressive disorders as well as parental reinforcing responses and emotional availability before initiating treatment.

PSYCHOSOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AMONG PUBLIC SECTOR LIBRARIANS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY IN BRUNEI DARUSSALAM

Amirul Rahman — 2025-11-25

Background: Physical inactivity is a leading global health risk, with 31% of adults worldwide not meeting recommended activity levels, yet evidence on psychosocial determinants among sedentary professionals remains limited. Aims: To examine psychosocial determinants of physical activity and their associations with socio-demographic characteristics. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in May to June 2025 among 153 librarians. Data were collected using a validated psychosocial and behavioural PA questionnaire informed by established psychosocial theories. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression were conducted to examine the associations between demographic variables and psychosocial determinants, with P value of < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Librarians reported moderate self-efficacy, behavioural intention, leisure-time PA, and workplace PA, with high perceived benefits and response efficacy. Female librarians had significantly lower self-efficacy (β = -0.43, p = 0.023), behavioural intention (β = -21.56, p = 0.001), and workplace PA (β = -0.50, p = 0.007) than males. Older groups perceived fewer benefits (β = -0.74 to -0.53, all p < 0.05) and lower inactivity severity (β = -0.72, p = 0.023). Higher education was unexpectedly linked with lower perceived vulnerability (β = -0.39, p = 0.046) and weaker intention (β = -8.70, p = 0.031). Officer-level librarians reported higher leisure-time PA (β = 8.59, p = 0.042) and workplace PA (β = 0.46, p = 0.003) than support staff. Conclusion: Socio-demographic characteristics shaped psychosocial determinants and PA behaviours among librarians. Tailored interventions should be considered. Findings may extend to other sedentary ISCO-08 occupations.

A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF YOGA AND STRUCTURED EXERCISES ON PAIN, MUSCLE PERFORMANCE, STRESS AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN PRIMARY DYSMENORRHEA

Shivani Ahuja — 2025-11-25

Introduction: With a prevalence of 25 to 90% in India, primary dysmenorrhea is a frequent ailment among women of reproductive age. Management of primary dysmenorrhea is selected from multidisciplinary options, which mainly consist of pharmacological intervention, but other alternative methods like yoga and exercise are also available. However, none of the researchers have compared the effects of yoga and exercise in primary dysmenorrhea. Aim: To compare the efficacy of yoga and structured exercises on pain, stress, quality of life and muscle performance in primary dysmenorrhea. Methods: Forty participants were randomly divided into two groups: one for yoga and the other for structured exercises. A total of twelve sessions were conducted over a period of three weeks. The baseline assessment was conducted on the 3rd day of the menstrual cycle, while the post-test was conducted on the 3rd day of the next consecutive cycle. After data acquisition, the results were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA. Result: Following the intervention, both groups demonstrated significant improvement (p < 0.05). But changes were not statistically significant between the two groups. Conclusion: Both yoga and exercise were effective in reducing pain and stress, as well as improving quality of life and muscle performance in primary dysmenorrhea.