Digital Commons Network^™

Exploring Spiritual Coping And Anxiety Reduction In Military Personnel Transitioning Through The Meb Process And Undergoing Vocational Training: A Qualitative Approach, Camron L. Rawls

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This qualitative study examined how transitioning military service members (TMSMs) navigating the Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) and the Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) used spiritual and vocational resources to manage stress and cope with identity loss. Using an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 participants enrolled in or recently completing the Ch. 31 Veterans Readiness & Employment (VR&E) or another vocational training program. The interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed through repeated cycles of coding, memoing, and theme development. Six major themes emerged: (1) bureaucratic confusion and identity disruption that increased anxiety and led …

Pathways To Better Sleep, Mairead E. Moloney, Emily Slade, Joon Chung, Kory Heier, Daniela C. Moga

Sociology Faculty Publications

Background: Rural Appalachia has some the highest rates of sleep and health disparities in the United States. This study investigates the relationship between social support and insomnia severity in rural Appalachian adults, with specific attention to the potential mediating roles of depression, anxiety, and stress. Methods: Participants from 12 rural Eastern Kentucky counties completed validated measures of insomnia severity, social support, depression, anxiety, and perceived stress. Using R, we calculated descriptive statistics and fit mediation models for depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and stress, with social support as the exposure and insomnia severity as the outcome. Results: Aligning with regional demographics, …

Climate Change Anxiety Related To Women’S Health Among Health Sciences Students, Derya Kaya Şenol, Semiha Aydın Özkan, Durdu Cennet Omuş

Makara Journal of Health Research

Background: Climate change impacts are unequally distributed globally, with children, women, pregnant women, the elderly, marginalized populations, and refugees bearing a disproportionate burden. This study aims to determine the levels of related anxiety among female students and to examine the relationship between the anxiety and their perceptions, knowledge levels, and health behaviors related to women’s health.

Methods: The study has a descriptive cross-sectional design. The study population included women students enrolled in the fall semester of the 2023–2024 academic year at the Faculty of Health Sciences of a university between October and December 2023. Personal Information Form and …

Basic Effectiveness Of Group Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (Gmbct) In The University Setting, John Robert C. Rilveria, Nisseth Clarize S. Carido, April Veronica G. Lansangan, Alaya Gabrielle N. Villaflor, Anna Cristina A. Tuazon, Divine Love A. Salvador, Violeta V. Bautista

Asia-Pacific Social Science Review

The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped daily life and amplified mental health challenges worldwide, with university students identified as a particularly vulnerable group. To address this need, the present study evaluated the effectiveness of group mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (GMBCT) as an evidence-based intervention for students receiving psychosocial services during the pandemic. Using a pretest–posttest design, data from 34 students randomly assigned to either GMBCT or individual treatment-as-usual (TAU) provided by a university-based clinic were analyzed. To evaluate treatment effects, an analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was conducted to compare post-treatment outcomes between the two groups while controlling for pre-treatment scores, treatment length, …

From Fear To Familiar: Reducing Technology-Induced Anxiety In Seniors, Justin Kyle V. Manalang

Master's Projects and Capstones

Abstract

This quality improvement project focuses on reducing the average technology-induced anxiety score among senior community members through 1:1 mentorship sessions. Aim During an eight-week period from September 10, 2025, to November 5, 2025, this project will reduce the severity of technology-induced anxiety by 25% from the established baseline. Methods: A 5P Microsystem assessment was conducted alongside an initial questionnaire to gauge the residents’ interests and concerns regarding technology use. From the results, focused mentorship sessions were conducted once a week and pertained to the chief complaint the resident had for eight weeks. The mentorship sessions were one-to-one and individualised …

Psychiatric Comorbidities And Treatment Modalities In Children With Osteogenesis Imperfecta: A Systematic Review Of Mental Health, Julia M Morales, Camille F Villar, Beatriz Varman, Gianna M Colombo, Danqi Li, Sarah J Sadek, Marie-Eve Robinson, Chaya N Murali, Kara Ayers, Jocelyn Gomez, Brendan Lee, V Reid Sutton, Eric A Storch, Andrew D Wiese

Library Staff Publications

To evaluate the prevalence of psychiatric signs and symptoms and describe psychotherapeutic and psychopharmacological interventions among children with osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). PRISMA guidelines were followed, and the study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024588284). Studies (n = 1419) were identified across five databases. Eligible studies, identified by independent reviewers, included peer-reviewed research on psychiatric comorbidities or interventions in children with OI. Data extraction included study design, population characteristics, mental health outcomes, and treatment effectiveness, with all studies assessed for quality and bias. Findings were synthesized to evaluate the prevalence of psychiatric comorbidities and intervention effectiveness. Five articles met inclusion criteria after …

Psychological Variables That Best Predict Health Related Behaviors In College Students, Arianna Gamaggio

Honors Theses

The present study examined which psychological factors best predicted health behaviors in college students. The psychological factors that were addressed included anxiety, depression, grit, and psychological flexibility. The health behaviors were examined by using a composite variable that included sleep, diet, and exercise. A total of 265 students participated in the study, but only 174 (μ age = 21) met the criteria for inclusion. Participants completed validated self-report measures such as the GAD- 7 (anxiety), PHQ-9 (depression), Short Grit Scale, Psy-Flex-6 (psychological flexibility), as well as health behavior assessments that measured eating behaviors, sleeping, and exercise habits. Correlational analyses indicated …

A Pilot Study Of Life Model Informed Therapy And Its Efficacy For Reducing Anxiety And Increasing Joy In Adults, William R. Mouer

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This pilot study researched Life Model Informed Therapy (LMIT), a modality developed into a six-week treatment targeted to decrease anxiety and increase joy in adults that self-reported as having anxiety. Fourteen participants were recruited by Facebook ads in the Charlotte, North Carolina area. Outcome data were collected using the State Joy Scale (SJS) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Participants received the same LMIT treatment for six consecutive, weekly, one-hour sessions. Participants self-reported on their joy and anxiety levels at three periods of time, including a pre-treatment, post-treatment and one month after-treatment test. Two one-way RM-ANOVA tests were conducted. Results of …

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: The Relationship Between Diet, Anxiety, And Depression And The Moderating Effect Of Cbt, Deborah J. Wright

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This study examined how cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques including cognitive restructuring and positive affirmations affect the relationship between dietary patterns and depression and anxiety symptoms. Research has established that CBT and diet affect depression and anxiety independently, but less research examines their collective impact. The study included 154 adult participants who filled out the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 alongside a Dietary Habits Checklist and a CBT Engagement Checklist during the previous two weeks. The results from multiple linear regressions showed no statistically significant moderation effects of CBT engagement on the relationship between diet and depression …

The Effects Of Escape Room Simulations On Stress Levels Of Sophomore Baccalaureate Nursing Students: An Experimental Study, Bethany L. Mcfann

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this quantitative experimental pretest -posttest design using an experimental and control group was to determine if gaming escape room simulation will decrease BSN nursing students' stress in high fidelity simulation (HFS). The sample size of 64 students had 32 students randomly assigned to each group, the control and the experimental group. The first-year sophomore Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) students at a state university were randomly assigned to either traditional or escape room simulation scenarios. Stress levels of each group were measured using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) tool before and after the simulations with statistical …

Exploring The Relationship Between Social Media And Anxiety In Deaf Community Students: A Mixed-Methods Approach., Gigi Zheng

Theses

The mental health of Deaf individuals, particularly in relation to social media engagement, is an understudied area amid growing global concerns about anxiety disorders. Deaf individuals face unique challenges, including communication barriers, social isolation, and stigma, all of which can heighten anxiety levels. Although social media offers valuable opportunities for connection and self-expression, it may also amplify stress and feelings of inadequacy when accessibility barriers persist. This mixed-methods study examined anxiety among Deaf college students and explored the cultural validity of two widely used anxiety measures—the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Quantitative data were collected …

Exercise As A Treatment For Depression And Anxiety Symptoms In College Students, Ashley J. Fountain

ATU Honors Projects

Anxiety and depression have become increasingly prevalent among college students, with rates rising to levels that demand urgent and accessible treatment alternatives. Traditional interventions such as psychotherapy and pharmacological treatments, while effective for many, present limitations including high cost, side effects, and barriers to access. This paper examines exercise as a holistic, evidence-based treatment modality for reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety in college students. Recent research demonstrates that aerobic exercise, resistance training, and yoga each produce meaningful physiological and psychological benefits through mechanisms involving neurotransmitter regulation, reduced cortisol levels, and enhanced self-esteem. Studies comparing exercise with antidepressant medications show …

Educators’ Perceptions Of Mental Health Services For Middle School Students In A South Texas District, Norma Araceli Cabrera

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this phenomenological qualitative study is to examine teachers' and administrators' perceptions of school-based mental health services in one school district in South Texas. Within-case sampling was utilized to select the participants. The study examines educators' perceptions of the availability and effectiveness of mental health services for middle school students. Middle school is a period of intense social development, during which students strive to navigate peer relationships. Middle school children, aged 12-14, also undergo emotional development as they manage intense emotions, develop self-awareness, and learn to cope with stressors related to school, friends, and self-identity. Studies found that …

Temporal Associations Between Social Media Use Frequency And Social Media Addiction And Depressive, Anxiety, And Insomnia Symptoms Among Hispanic Emerging Adults: Moderation By Identity Exploration And Instability And Negativity, Miguel Andres Garcia

Open Access Theses & Dissertations

The number of social media users has drastically increased in recent years, and rates of social media use are particularly pronounced among emerging adults and Hispanic groups. Furthermore, emerging adults are at risk for poor mental health and report poor sleep health, and Hispanic groups may experience sleep disparities compared to their non-Hispanic White counterparts. Although many studies have assessed the associations between social media use frequency and social media addiction and depressive, anxiety, and insomnia symptoms, fewer have investigated these associations prospectively. Similarly, few studies have assessed potential moderators of these associations. Thus, the current study investigated the temporal …

Associations Between School Experiences And Mental Health Outcomes By Gender Identity In Sexual And Gender Minority Youth In Texas And California, 2022 - 2024, Andrea Susana Yanez

Open Access Theses & Dissertations

Background: Depression and anxiety affect populations differently, with diagnoses disproportionately higher among sexual and gender minority groups, including LGBTQ+ youth. School experiences shape mental health; negative environments, bullying, and lack of support worsen outcomes, while affirming policies, peer support, and inclusive curricula are protective. Methods: This secondary analysis of the Family, Housing, and Me (FHAM) Project followed 83 LGBTQ+ youth from South Texas and California's Inland Empire (2022-2024). Data on sociodemographic characteristics, school experiences, and mental health outcomes were collected at baseline and at Waves I and II over 25 months. Analyses included descriptive statistics, monthly comparisons, and bivariate and …

Analyzing The Hidden Impact Of Work Stress On Mental Health, Shaikha Aljabry

Theses

Occupational stress and deteriorating mental health constitute an increasing issue in the global community, and the problem of how job demands, personal resources, and cognitive processes interrelate to determine employee well-being is hardly known. This dissertation will study these dynamics by incorporating theory-driven Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with data-driven Machine Learning (ML) methods that offer explanatory and predictive information. The study examines the influences of job demands, personal resources, effort–reward imbalance (ERI), emotional labor, cognitive appraisal, and social support on the stress and mental health outcomes of a sample of 5,000 employees working in various industries and regions of the …

Contextual Stress Profiles And Trajectories Of Internalizing Symptoms Among Adolescents In Mexican Immigrant Families, Su Yeong Kim, Wen Wen, Kiera M. Coulter, Wei Xiang Sim, Tianlu Zhang, Jingyi Shen, Yang Hou, Yishan Shen, Ka I. Ip

Research Collection School of Social Sciences

Contextual stress experiences in early adolescents may predict distinct trajectories of depressive symptoms and anxiety across the course of adolescence. Data from 604 Mexican-origin adolescents collected from 2012 to 2020 (54% female; Mage = 12.92, SD = 0.92) showed that youth with high stress levels in multiple domains (Broadly Stressed) and those with high stress in language brokering domain only (Language Brokering Stressed) had similar levels of internalizing symptoms in early adolescence, and both groups reported higher stress than youth experiencing occasional levels of stress across domains (Occasionally Environmentally Stressed). However, youth in the Language Brokering Stressed group experienced slightly …

The Influence Of Task Type And Learner Language Background On Writing Production And Anxiety: A Bayesian Linear Mixed-Effects Analysis, Mahmoud Abdi Tabari, Xinya Liang, Agnes Albert

Counseling, Leadership, and Research Methods Faculty Publications and Presentations

Despite growing interest in task-based language teaching (TBLT), limited empirical work has examined how different rhetorical task types influence second language (L2) writing development, especially in relation to affective variables, such as writing anxiety. Existing research in TBLT has largely focused on cognitive dimensions, often neglecting individual differences in learners' emotional responses. Moreover, Long's (2014) call to use first language (L1) data as a benchmark in TBLT remains underexplored, complicating the interpretation of L2 performance patterns. To address these gaps, we examined the impact of task type and writing anxiety on the written performance of 140 university students (70 L1 …

Implications Of Cooccurring Adhd For The Cognitive Behavioural Treatment Of Anxiety In Autistic Children, Elise Ng-Cordell, Eric A Storch, Philip C Kendall, Jeffrey J Wood, Amori Yee Mikami, Connor M Kerns

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

Background: Childhood mental health conditions commonly cooccur, with potential treatment implications. Autistic children frequently experience anxiety and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). We investigated the implications of this cooccurrence for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), a front-line treatment for anxiety in autistic children. We tested whether (1) ADHD predicts anxiety treatment response, (2) ADHD improves in response to anxiety treatment and (3) ADHD improvement is related to reductions in anxiety.

Method: Autistic children with elevated anxiety (N = 167) enrolled in a multisite, randomised controlled trial comparing standard CBT, autism-adapted CBT and treatment as usual. ADHD symptoms and severity were assessed via …

How Well Can Commonly Used Anxiety Scales Detect Treatment Outcomes In The Context Of Autism?, Huilin Chen, Jeffrey J Wood, Connor M Kerns, Eric A Storch, Philip C Kendall, Gaia Scerif, Cathy Creswell

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

Anxiety is one of the most prevalent mental health challenges in autistic children, yet there is limited evidence on effective tools to measure treatment outcomes. Previous research with non-autistic children has found that the Child Anxiety Impact Scale, Parent Version achieved good diagnostic accuracy when measuring treatment outcomes and performed better than a commonly used symptom measure. However, this has not been evaluated for autistic children. The present study examined the psychometric properties of the Child Anxiety Impact Scale, Parent Version in autistic children and compared its utility against other anxiety symptom measures, to detect treatment outcomes as assessed by …

Digital Beginnings: Exploring The Impact Of Screen Exposure On Internalizing Behaviors During Toddlerhood, Nicole Sotolongo

Electronic Theses and Dissertations 2020 - Present

The present study examines the relationship between screen exposure behaviors and toddler internalizing behaviors, with sleep behaviors being observed as a moderator. The study emphasizes the need for continued research to adapt to the ever-changing nature of the daily use of screens during toddlerhood and early childhood. Fifty-seven mothers of two-year-old children participated in one-on-one parent-report only, interviewer-based quantitative interviews discussing their child’s internalizing and sleep behaviors. Participants were also asked to fill out a questionnaire about their child’s screen exposure behaviors. It was hypothesized that (1) higher levels of screen exposure behaviors will result in increased internalizing behaviors, (2) …

Cross-Pollination Of Ideas: Exploring The Mental Health Implications Of Academic Pressure In Dual Enrollment Programs For Students, Lorenzo Rene

Concurrent Enrollment Review

The research examined the mental health implications due to the DE program’s academic pressure on students. The available literature demonstrates that the DE program is associated with a large number of students entering colleges, academic success in college, and self-confidence development. Nevertheless, the DE program exerts some pressure on the high school learners in terms of their mental health. Besides managing the high school curriculum, DE students are supposed to complete the relevant degree courses in the DE program. This leads to duplication of academic classes that strains the work-life balance, leading some students to encounter high levels of stress …

Psychological Impact Of Pulmonary Embolism: A Narrative Review., Farooq Hyder, Hina Pervaiz, Fnu Karishma, Daya Kumari, Poonam Kumari, Ali Karim, Hari Vishal Nenwani, Allah Warayo, Kishor Kumari, Muhammad Salman, Abida Parveen, Mubeena Javid, Raveena Bai Bansari

Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives

Background: Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a potentially life-threatening thromboembolic condition that demands urgent medical attention. While significant strides have been made in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of PE, its long-term psychological consequences remain underexplored. Survivors often face considerable emotional and psychological challenges that can impair recovery and reduce quality of life. This narrative review aims to explore the psychological impact of PE, including common mental health outcomes such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and health-related fears. It also examines contributing factors such as persistent physical symptoms, anticoagulation therapy, social and occupational disruptions, and gaps in mental health …

A Case Study Exploring Lecanemab Antibody Infusion And Reminiscence Therapy For Early Alzheimer’S Disease, Martina Masry

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This case study examined whether a 12-month combined therapy (RT-L), which includes reminiscence therapy and lecanemab monoclonal antibody infusion therapy, will clear beta amyloid accumulation in the brain, slow cognitive decline, decrease depression, reduce anxiety, and increase the quality of life in a participant with mild cognitive impairment due to early Alzheimer’s dementia. The sample included one White female (age = 68) with mild cognitive impairment due to early Alzheimer’s disease who is currently being treated by a geriatrician at a facility in the Midwest. The outpatient treatment included a lecanemab antibody infusion of 10mg/kg every two weeks for 12 …

The Effects Of Virtual Reality On Anxiety In The Pediatric Perioperative Patient, Gerald R. Connors

DNP and Student Works

Background: Virtual reality (VR) was an emerging intervention to offer children a form of distraction to combat feelings of despair and positively impact anxiety and improve coping.

Problem: Hospitalization and surgical procedures often cause anxiety, fear and stress for the pediatric patient and negatively affect clinical outcomes and recovery time.

Methods: The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was used to measure the pre intervention and post intervention anxiety scores of 39 participants, ages 8-18 years of age, over an eight-week period. Descriptive statistics and a paired t test were used to report results. The Knowledge to Action translational science model was …

The Impact Of Athletic Retirement On Anxiety In Elite Athletes, A Critically Appraised Topic, Jordan Gorham, Emily Madrak

Journal of Sports Medicine and Allied Health Sciences: Official Journal of the Ohio Athletic Trainers Association

Though there is growing interest in athletic mental health, this interest appears to diminish significantly once an athlete enters athletic retirement. The abrupt transition can precipitate mental health struggles, exacerbated by the lack of adequate preparation for lifestyle after retirement and the attachment of athletic identity to their sport. Consequently, these circumstances may increase symptoms associated with poor mental health, with a specific focus on anxiety. As the athlete retires and moves into different stages of life, research notes that athletes with stronger athletic identities have poorer mental health than those who had weaker athletic identity^. While the scrutiny …

Parental Psychosocial Outcomes After A Positive Newborn Screen For A Lysosomal Storage Disorder., Courtney D. Berrios, Randi N. Gadea, Meghan Strenk, Twisha Nadella, Jennifer L. Gannon, Janelle R. Noel-Macdonnell Phd

Manuscripts, Articles, Book Chapters and Other Papers

PURPOSE: This study explores the psychosocial impact of a positive newborn screen (NBS) result for four lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs) (Fabry disease, Krabbe disease, Mucopolysaccharidosis Type I, Pompe disease) across confirmatory results.

METHODS: Parents whose child who had a positive NBS for one of the included LSDs were recruited for a retrospective cohort (n = 80) or prospective, longitudinal cohorts (n = 50). Surveys assessed uncertainty, anxiety, intrusive or avoidant thoughts, and perceived vulnerability of their child's health. In-depth interviews explored the NBS experience and psychosocial response.

RESULTS: Participants experienced uncertainty and anxiety during confirmatory testing that improved as parents …

A Historical Cohort Comparison After Inpatient Admission For Adolescents With Anorexia Nervosa: Feasibility Of Virtual Group Therapy, Elizabeth V Franklin, Margaret Mathias, Rachel Wolfe, Duc T Nguyen, Drusilla M Rosales, Sofia Pedroza, Albert C Hergenroeder, Constance M Wiemann

Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy Staff Publications

Objective: Access to follow-up care after a medical admission for adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN) is important; yet access can be delayed or unavailable. This study assessed the feasibility and acceptability of a supplemental virtual 8-week outpatient group therapy program following inpatient care. A secondary aim explored the outpatient program's impact on self-reported anxiety, disordered eating, and depression symptoms, and readmission rates.

Method: A retrospective chart review study compared 68 adolescents (aged 11-18) with AN enrolled in an 8-week group therapy program (Recovery and Prevention Program [RAPP]) to 64 adolescents who were not enrolled in RAPP (historical cohort). "RAPP completers" …

The Interactive Effects Of Negative Life Events, Cortisol Reactivity, And Gender On Psychological Distress Among Emerging Adults, Li Shen Chong, Teresa Mejia, Kate L. Senich, Christy L. Olezeski, Elana B. Gordis

Faculty Research, Scholarly, and Creative Activity

Negative life events are associated with the development of psychological distress, including depression, anxiety, and traumatic stress symptoms. Evidence suggests that individual differences in stress response system activity may alter susceptibility to psychological distress for those with exposure to negative life events. In particular, women experience greater levels of psychological distress than men. Given that emerging adulthood is characterized by stressful, significant life transitions that may constitute risks for psychological distress, this study examined whether hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity and gender influenced the link between negative life events and psychological distress among emerging adults. Participants ( N = 176; mean …

Holistic Support For Online Learners: A Framework For Mental Health Integration, Charlotte A. Jones-Roberts

FDLA Journal

The mental health crisis among college students has been well-documented, with increasing rates of anxiety, depression, and other psychological distress. Online learners, in particular, face unique challenges related to social isolation, self-regulation, and access to mental health resources. Understanding mental health in the context of online education is critical due to the unique challenges posed by virtual learning environments (Saade et al., 2017; Kumari et al., 2021). This paper explores the importance of mental health support in higher education and proposes a three-level framework for integration: university-level, LMS-level, and course-level support. By addressing common concerns and utilizing a Universal Design …