Mental health-related stigma is a recognised determinant of psychological well-being,yet population-level evidence from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) remains limited. This study aimed to assess levels of perceived mental health stigma among residents of Abu Dhabi, examine socio-demographic correlates of stigma, and explore the relationship between stigma and psychological well-being among Emirati and expatriate populations.

A cross-sectional, population-based study was conducted among adult residents of the Abu Dhabi region. Participants completed a culturally adapted and validated Stigma-9 (STIG-9) questionnaire to assess perceived public stigma, and the World Health Organization Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5) to measure psychological well-being. Socio-demographic variables included age, gender, region of residence, nationality, education level, and household income. Descriptive statistics summarised stigma and well-being scores. Group comparisons examined demographic differences, and correlation analysis assessed the relationship between stigma and well-being. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.

Overall perceived stigma levels were low (mean STIG-9 score 0.92 ± 0.89; median 0.89, IQR 0–1.67). Significant regional variation was observed, with participants residing in Al Ain reporting higher stigma scores than those in other regions. Females reported higher stigma than males (1.02 ± 0.89 vs 0.83 ± 0.88; p<0.001). Younger adults aged 18–29 years also demonstrated higher stigma scores (1.04 ± 0.93) compared with older age groups. Higher education level and higher household income were associated with increased perceived stigma, while no significant differences were observed by nationality.

Psychological well-being scores were generally high (mean WHO-5 score 74.21 ± 25.60; median 75, IQR 55–90). Males reported higher well-being than females (77.79 ± 24.90 vs 70.57 ± 25.79; p<0.001). Participants in the lowest household income group (<5,000 AED) reported the highest well-being scores (81.01 ± 24.99), while participants with postgraduateeducation reported lower well-being (60.77 ± 21.58). A strong inverse association was identified between perceived stigma and psychological well-being (r=−0.67, 95% CI −0.70 to −0.65; p<0.001).

While the study participants generally showed low perceived mental health stigma, notable variation existed across demographics and regions. Higher stigma was seen among younger adults, females, and those with higher socioeconomic status, reflecting complex sociocultural influences. The inverse link between stigma and well-being emphasises the need for stigma-reduction strategies as part of mental health promotion. Culturally tailored interventions for high-risk groups could support psychological well-being across UAE communities.

Political violence, detention and torture cause severe psychological morbidity. During a period of political instability in Sudan between December 2018 and June 2019, civilians were exposed to extreme cumulative trauma, yet data on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in this population remain limited. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of PTSD among detainees, examine symptom characteristics and psychometric properties of the PTSD scale, and identify predictors of PTSD in a conflict-affected population.

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 246 Sudanese individuals who experienced detention, torture or related trauma in Khartoum State between December 2018 and June 2019. PTSD symptoms were assessed using DSM–IV criteria, including functional impairment. Demographic characteristics and trauma exposure variables (type, number and timing of events) were examined. Psychometric analyses included internal consistency testing and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis to determine a screening cut-off. Multivariate logistic regression with stepwise selection was used to identify predictors of probable PTSD.

Participants were predominantly male (89.8%), aged 20–29 years (72.0%) and students (54.1%). Trauma exposure was extensive and cumulative: 45.5% reported exposure to all four trauma categories, and 87.2% of torture survivors experienced multiple torture methods. PTSD prevalence was high, with 65.9% meeting symptom criteria and 38.2% meeting diagnostic criteria including functional impairment. The most commonly reportedsymptoms were irritability (77.8%), re-experiencing symptoms (71.1%) and concentration difficulties (67.9%). The PTSD scale showed good internal consistency (Cronbach’s α=0.82). ROC analysis identified a threshold of ≥7 symptoms as the optimal screening cut-off (area under the curve 0.84). In multivariate analysis, exposure during the most intense period of violence in June 2019 (3–30 June) was the strongest PTSD predictor (adjusted odds ratio 4.99), followed by witnessing trauma, exposure to shocking events involving family or friends, intense emotional response and direct exposure to beating or torture. A clear dose–response relationship was observed between cumulative trauma exposure and PTSD severity.

PTSD prevalence among detainees during this period of political instability in Sudan was alarmingly high, particularly among those exposed during peak violence. Temporal context, indirect trauma involving loved ones and cumulative exposure were stronger predictors than demographic factors. These findings highlight the urgent need for trauma-informed mental health services, screening and psychosocial support for survivors of political violence in Sudan and similar conflict-affected settings.

The Amyloid-Tau-Neurodegeneration (ATN) framework defines Alzheimer’s disease using primarily biological markers of pathology rather than clinical presentation. Although ATN classification has improved biological characterisation, new evidence indicates that biomarker stage is frequently discordant with clinical severity, functional impairment and prognosis, limiting its utility for personalised management planning. This poster aims to critically evaluate the strengths and limitations of ATN-based diagnosis and explore the role and management implications of an integrated clinical-biological staging model as a potential future standardised approach to improve clinical decision-making in real-world practice.

A narrative synthesis of the Alzheimer’s disease literature was conducted to evaluate the relationship between ATN classification and clinical outcomes. Peer-reviewed studies were identified that examined ATN biomarkers across research and clinical settings, including longitudinal cohort studies, memory clinic populations and meta-analyses. Evidence was appraised to assess concordance and discordance between biological staging, cognitive severity, functional impairment and prognosis. Findings were synthesised thematically, focusing on clinical applicability, management implications and the potential role of an integrated clinical-biological staging model was evaluated.

Across many studies, the ATN framework demonstrated clear strengths in confirming Alzheimer’s disease pathology but consistent limitations in explaining clinical presentation. Amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) reliably confirmed underlying pathology but accumulated decades before symptom onset, therefore unable to predictcognitive severity. Tau PET and cerebrospinal fluid tau correlated closely with clinical symptoms but were limited by early sensitivity and spatial resolution. Neurodegeneration markers reflected synaptic dysfunction and brain atrophy but primarily represented late irreversible change. Overall, clinical symptoms and biomarker stage showed frequent discordance.

Evidence highlighted that discordant profiles were commonly influenced by resilience factors or additional co-pathologies not captured within the ATN framework. Integrated clinical-biological staging models map patients across two axes, which has been shown to better identify these profiles. Such models can more accurately reflect real-world heterogeneity.

This evidence-based analysis demonstrates that while ATN-based diagnosis provides a strong biological framework, it is insufficient when used in isolation to explain symptom severity, prognosis or clinical variability. Integrated clinical-biological staging offers a more meaningful approach with implications for more accurate prognosis and targeted management. However, the clinical utility of this approach is currently limited by restricted availability of co-pathology biomarkers and the need for validation of integrated models in diverse populations. Therefore, further research is required before widespread standardised implementation.

To investigate relationships between diabetes, diabetes duration, and psychiatric difficulties using data from a nationwide survey and to examine associations between psychiatric difficulties and physician diagnosis, treatment status, and glycaemic control in diabetes patients by performing subgroup analyses.

Data from the 2022 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were analysed. A representative sample of 4,475 adults aged 19 years or older was obtained using stratified, multistage, clustered sampling. Psychiatric difficulties were assessed using PHQ-9 for depression, GAD-7 for anxiety, and face-to-face interviews for suicidality. Diabetes patients were categorized by diabetes duration (<5, 5−9, 10−14, and ≥15 years). Statistical models were adjusted for demographic and clinical covariates.

Diabetes patients were significantly more likely to experience depression than controls (aOR=1.818). Those with a diabetes duration of ≥15 years showed significant associations with depression (aOR=2.830), suicidal ideation (aOR=2.496), and suicidal plans (aOR=4.604). Such associations were not found in shorter duration groups. Subgroup analyses revealed links between suicidal ideation and being diagnosed by a physician or receiving treatment. No significant associations were found between glycaemic control and psychiatric difficulties.

Depression was more prevalent in diabetes patients than in controls. A diabetes duration of ≥15 years was significantly linked to higher rates of depression and suicidality. Routine psychiatric screenings after 15 years of diabetes duration could enhance public health strategies. Addressing societal stigma and alleviating burdens of diabetes management might improve mental health outcomes.

We evaluated the adequacy of Mother & Baby Unit (MBU) provision for the population of Wales. Primary objectives included assessing historical patterns of patient referrals and admissions, identifying peak demand trends, and projecting future requirements. Additionally, we utilised capacity modelling to evaluate service scenarios and recommend innovations to reduce admission delays.

We analysed retrospective data on admissions and activity from November 2021 to January 2025. Demand was estimated using epidemiology and live birth statistics from 2023. Travel distances and times were modelled using Google Maps car journey calculations. Furthermore, we in corporated qualitative insights from a Lived Experience Group to define service standards, such as the preferred maximum travel time of one hour.

Working with Cardiff University’s School of Mathematics we developed large language models against scenario analysis.

Our programme has utilised mathematical modelling techniques specifically queuing theory, discrete event simulation (DES), and mathematical programming to ultimately address keychallenges in mental health services – lever aging mathematical modelling for more effective and responsive mental health services.

• • Incidence and Admissions: Between 2021 and 2024, 164 mothers from NHS Wales were admitted to MBUs, a figure consistent with clinical projections.

• • Service Provision: 81% of admissions were to Uned Gobaith (the only NHS MBU in Wales), which has a 6-bed capacity and is frequently at full occupancy. The remaining 19% of mothers were admitted to units in England.

• • Accessibility: While 73% of Welsh mothers travelled less than one hour for treatment, significant regional inequalities exist. Mothers from Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board travelled the furthest, with an average time of 1 hour 45 minutes.

• • Economic Impact: MBU beds are high-cost interventions, with an annual occupancy cost per bed of £350,000–£400,000.

• • Current Welsh MBU provision is operating at capacity, often necessitating out-of-area placements.

• • To eliminate delays, South Wales requires access to 8–9 beds (up from 6), and North Wales requires 2–3 beds.

• • The opening of Seren Lodge in Chester (Autumn 2025) is projected to increase the percentage of North Wales mothers travelling less than one hour from 13% to 69%.

• • Future planning must balance inpatient bed expansion with investment in community services to reduce admission needs.

• • Mathematical modelling, which has proven effective across various industries, offers a toolbox to help optimising mental health services by improving resource allocation, staff scheduling, and patient care pathways.

To evaluate the implementation and mental health outcomes of physical activity-based interventions within contexts specifically relevant to Wales.

We aimed to identify existing gaps in the literature, explore implications for local clinical practice, and provide a strategic solution for common mental health settings.

We sought to establish a framework for action and quality statements to embed physical activity within routine mental health care.

Prioritise action that will support the improvement of the physical health of people with severe and enduring mental health conditions, reducing the mortality gap between people who have severe and enduring mental health conditions and those that do not. This is inkeeping with aspirations of Welsh Government’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy Delivery Plan 2025–2028.

We utilised a multi-faceted methodology, including a structured mapping and narrative analysis of the broader international evidence base alongside a systematic review of Wales-specific evidence.

The systematic search followed PRISMA guidelines, targeting databases such as MEDLINE, PubMed, and PsycINFO using key terms like “mental illness”, “exercise”, and “Wales”.

Grey literature sources were also analysed to capture real-world practical challenges. Articles were screened, with inclusion limited to those published after 2007 to remain consistent with modern legislative definitions.

The findings indicate that physical activity interventions significantly improve mental wellbeing across various settings in Wales, including community-based programmes, secure units, and exercise referral schemes.

Key benefits identified include reduced symptom severity for both common mental disorders and severe mental illness (SMI), improved sleep quality, and mitigation of premature mortality risks.

However, significant barriers to implementation were identified:

• Systemic Barriers: Limited funding, a shortage of qualified physical activity professionals, and insufficient training for healthcare staff.

• Individual Barriers: Low motivation, poor baseline physical health, and low self-esteem among service users.

• Environmental Barriers: The “obesogenic” nature of secure inpatient units, which often lack the flexibility or resources to prioritize physical activity.

Integrating physical activity into mental health services is essential but requires a shift in clinical culture and investment.

We propose four Quality Statements to guide leaders, emphasising collaborative design with physical activity professionals, inclusive programming for diverse needs, equitable care in secure settings, and sustainable investment in community programmes.

Effective implementation depends on moving toward a person-centred, evidence-informed approach that addresses both social and commercial determinants of health.

This integrative thematic synthesis aims to synthesise evidence on (1) neurodevelopmental and relational mechanisms hypothesised to drive Parent-Mediated Intervention effects; (2) lived experience and acceptability of parents, and (3) feasibility of widespread implementation into early-years services. Results were shaped into a translational model to inform sustainable, scalable, and ethical early-intervention delivery.

A scoping review was conducted in-line with PRISMA-ScR guidance. The databases Medline, PubMed, Scopus, and PsycINFO were searched for studies published between 2010 and 2025. Eligible papers included infants up to 24 months old at increased risk of autism and reported on at least one of the following areas: proposed neurodevelopmental mechanisms, parental experience, or implementation and scalability. Two reviewers independently screened and synthesised data from qualitative studies, clinical trials, and service evaluations using thematic analysis and cross-domain integration.

Studies were excluded if they focused solely on pharmacological interventions or diagnostic procedures, as well as those only including children older than 24 months.

Studies that were not addressing the practical delivery or feasibility of the intervention within real-world service settings were also excluded. This approach enabled inclusion of both trials examining efficacy and underlying mechanisms, alongside research exploring lived experience and system-level implementation.

The thematic analysis identified three interconnected domains: (1) Parent-Mediated Intervention shapes early social attention and arousal regulation by increasing the predictability of caregiver social signals without altering core neuro development trajectories; (2) parental empowerment and stress regulation act as key mediators of sustained engagement and parent–infant synchrony; and (3) feasibility and equity are determined by delivery model, workforce capacity, accessibility and adaptability (for example, hybrid or telehealth models).

Heterogeneity in terminology, study design, intervention duration, and outcome measures (including criteria used to define autism likelihood) was acknowledged as a limitation constraining synthesis across the studies in this review.

Despite these limitations, findings were integrated into a Developmental-Relational-Implementation model to support clinicians and commissioners in selecting, timing, and delivering Parental-Mediated Interventions that are feasible and adaptable within real-world health systems.

The Developmental-Relational-Implementation model offers a pragmatic framework for clinicians, commissioners, and policymakers to guide the delivery of Parental-Mediated Intervention in early autism care. This review positions Developmental-Relational-Implementation-informed approaches as family-centred, equitable, and scalable by capitalising on relational engagement, developmental neuroplasticity, and the practical realities of healthcare delivery. To support scalable and sustainable expansion, furtherresearch should incorporate mechanistic markers, qualitative assessments of parental outcomes, and health economic evaluation.

Adults living in deprived coastal communities face disproportionately high rates of self-harm and suicide, yet little is known about the barriers they experience when attempting to access preventative and mental health support. This study explored how Jaywick residents navigate existing support pathways, identified key barriers and unmet needs associated with accessing services for self-harm and suicidality, and examined approaches that may strengthen engagement and early intervention within this coastal setting.

Two stakeholder workshops were conducted with 14 participants from statutory health providers and community and voluntary organisations operating in Jaywick. Workshops were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using reflexive thematicanalysis. Discussions focused on experiences of service navigation, barriers to accessing care for self-harm and suicidality, and opportunities for system improvement.

Three overarching themes were identified. First, access barriers: digital exclusion, low literacy, and poor signposting impeded residents’ ability to access mental health support, leaving many dependent on others for referrals. Second, social and cultural dynamics: deep-rooted mistrust of statutory services, normalisation of symptoms, and strong community tribalism hindered help-seeking and engagement. Third, vulnerability and risk: entrenched cycles of poverty, addiction, trauma, and isolation were prevalent, with migrants and refugees experiencing added disadvantages. Fragmented service provision meant that those with co-occurring needs frequently fell between service thresholds and were often only supported at crisis point.

Barriers to accessing support for self-harm and suicidality in Jaywick are complex, intersecting, and reinforced by long-standing structural inequities. Enhancing trust, embedding services locally, and reducing digital exclusion are essential to improving early intervention and access. Co-produced, community-based models, including health navigation and outreach approaches, offer promising routes to addressing the significant unmet needs within this coastal community.

International Medical Graduates (IMGs) are essential to the delivery of care in the UK National Health Service (NHS) but their work is often examined through workforce metrics rather than lived clinical practice. So far, this study presents one of the first in-depth UK-based ethnographic analyses of IMG doctors, examining how they negotiate professional belonging, authority, and recognition, and how cultural translation and plural clinical reasoning operate under conditions of rota pressure, visa constraint, and racialised evaluation.

An interpretative qualitative study was conducted using ethnographic methods. Data were generated through 13 life-history interviews with IMG doctors working across NHS hospital settings, supported by reflexive field diaries and digital ethnography within IMG professional WhatsApp groups. Participants represented a range of specialties, grades, contract types, and intersectional identities. Data were analysed thematically using concepts from medical anthropology and sociology, with attention to recognition, translation practices, and institutional governance. Ethical approval was obtained from the relevant institutionalethics committee, all participants provided informed consent, and data were anonymised in accordance with governance and data protection requirements.

IMGs contributed more than clinical labour. Participants described sustained cultural translation work, rendering care credible across accents, professional rubrics, and patient moral worlds. Many enacted plural clinical rationalities, making small, evidence-tested adaptations to standard protocols that stabilised pressured services and supported patient trust. These practices were frequently unrecognised or misread as inefficiency. Professional recognition was unevenly distributed and patterned by race, accent, grade, and visa status, with service-heavy posts limiting access to protected training and clinical voice. Performance, strategic silence, and low-visibility resistance emerged as everyday tactics through which IMGs preserved dignity, mitigated risk, and advocated for patients.

The NHS already functions as a global medical system but its infrastructures of recognition remain misaligned with this reality. Recognising cultural translation as clinical work and embedding safe mechanisms to evaluate plural practices could improve equity, patient safety, and workforce retention. Practical implications include protecting training in service-heavy roles, decoupling communication assessment from accent policing, embedding IMG-led forums into quality improvement processes, and designing visa-aware governance.

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterised by cognitive decline, disruption of autobiographical memory and behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), including anxiety, agitation, apathy and social withdrawal. This significantly affects quality of life and ethical care delivery in clinical and residential settings. Pharmacological treatments provide modest, time-limited benefits and are associated with adverse effects. Consequently, there is growing interest in non-pharmacological, person-centred interventions like music. However, its impact on behaviour, well-being and identity is relatively unexplored.

This paper evaluates music as a person-centred intervention for improving emotional well-being, reducing agitation and supporting a sense of self-identity in people living with AD. It hypothesises that music actively facilitates autobiographical memory recall rather than merely reflecting passive preservation of musical pathways by AD pathology.

This narrative review synthesised neurobiological, neuroimaging and behavioural studies examining the relationship between music-evoked autobiographical memory, emotional processing and self-identity in AD. Particular attention was paid to disease severity, distinctions between episodic and semantic memory and implications for care homes, specialist services and community-based practice.

Neuroimaging studies have shown involvement of the anterior cingulate cortex, medial prefrontal cortex and hippocampus in both music processing and autobiographical memory retrieval, supporting the existence of specific neural networks for self-identity activated by music. Evidence of music-related hippocampal activation, despite early atrophy in AD, suggests that music may actively preserve autobiographical memory pathways.

Music preferentially enhances episodic and self-defining memory recall, likely through emotional arousal, anxiety reduction and familiarity. Personalised interventions, including self-selected playlists or songs associated with positive emotions, resulted in stronger recall than researcher-selected music. In contrast, semantic memories were less influenced by music, which could create a dissociation between autobiographical memory and self-identity in advanced AD, limiting its effectiveness in later stages. Nevertheless, music reliably improves mood, reduces agitation and enhances social engagement across disease stages.

Music’s effects on autobiographical memory in AD are likely multifactorial and severity-dependent. Although music may not restore self-identity in advanced AD, it improves emotional well-being, reduces agitation and enhances quality of life. Given its non-invasive nature, absence of adverse effects and clinical benefits, music represents an ethically justified and implementable intervention for individuals living with AD. Furthermore, thisresearch suggests the possibility of other sensory cues like sounds, smells, tastes and environments being able to trigger autobiographical memories, highlighting a promising avenue for future research into non-pharmacological, person-centred interventions in AD.

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is associated with prolonged treatment, significant psychosocial stressors, and poor treatment outcomes. Depression is a common but under-recognised comorbidity in this population and may negatively affect adherence and recovery. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression among patients with MDR-TB and to identify socio-demographic and clinical factors associated with depression. We hypothesised that depression would be highly prevalent among MDR-TB patients and associated with financial stress, family problems, longer treatment duration, and increasingage.

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Karachi, Pakistan. A total of 107 adult patients diagnosed with MDR-TB were recruited using non-probability consecutive sampling. Patients who had been receiving anti-tuberculosis treatment for more than two months were included. Pregnant patients, those receiving psychiatric treatment for conditions other than depression, and those unwilling to participate were excluded. Depression was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). A score greater than 4 was considered indicative of depressive symptoms. Data were collected on age, gender, education, employment status, duration of treatment, financial difficulties, and family problems related to the TB diagnosis. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 20. Associations between depression and potential determinants were analysed using the Chi-square test, with a p-value of ≤0.05 considered statistically significant.

The mean age of participants was 32.1 ± 6.2 years, with a predominance of male patients (69.2%). Depression was identified in 52 patients (48.6%). Depression was significantly associated with increasing age (p=0.001), financial difficulties (p=0.01), family problems (p=0.01), and longer duration of MDR-TB treatment (p=0.01). Patients undergoing treatment for more than eight months demonstrated the highest prevalence of depressive symptoms. No significant associations were observed with gender, education level,or employment status.

Nearly half of patients with MDR-TB in this study experienced depressive symptoms, highlighting a substantial mental health burden in this population. Financial stress,family difficulties, prolonged treatment duration, and increasing age were key determinants of depression. These findings underscore the importance of routine mental health screening and integrated psychosocial support within MDR-TB treatment programmes to improve adherence, treatment outcomes, and overall quality of life.

Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), previously known as Multiple Personality Disorder, is characterised by the presence of two or more distinct personality states, often arising as a coping mechanism for severe and prolonged trauma. Based on the structural dissociation theory, Phase-Oriented Therapy is currently the treatment model recommended by the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation. It comprises three phases: Phase 1 (Stabilisation), Phase 2 (Trauma Processing) and Phase 3 (Integration and Rehabilitation). Despite its clinical significance, the evidence base remains limited, with phase-specific strategies underexplored. This review examines how dissociative parts are managed throughout the three phases of Phase-Oriented Therapy in individuals with DID, emphasising therapeutic goals, key techniques used, clinical challenges and treatment outcomes.

A narrative review was conducted using the SPIDER framework. Literature was sourced from databases such as PubMed, Wiley, EBSCO and Google Scholar using terms related to DID and Phase-Oriented Therapy. Included studies consisted of case reports, observational studies, systematic reviews and clinical guidelines.

Phase 1, the stabilisation phase, was consistently identified as foundational, with therapeutic aims including safety, emotion regulation and psychoeducation. Reported outcomes included improved affect regulation and self-control. However, many patients struggled to progress beyond this phase due to a significant level of symptoms or early dropout.

Phase 2 focused on trauma processing through exposure-based and cognitive restructuring techniques, including inner communication and grief processing. Outcomes included greater affect tolerance, reduced self-blame and improved internal communication between parts. However, several studies noted delayed symptom improvement, with treatment effects often emerging only during follow-up.

Phase 3 emphasised self-integration, functional adaptation and acceptance of functional multiplicity, defined as cooperative coexistence of parts without complete fusion. Patients showed improvements in daily functioning and a renewed sense of purpose, though some residual dissociative symptoms remained at the end of treatment.

Across studies, common challenges included high attrition rates, underdiagnosis and limited access to therapists trained in dissociation-specific approaches. Variations in treatment length,intensity and manualisation also contributed to inconsistent outcomes.

Phase-Oriented Therapy offers a structured, trauma-informed and clinically meaningful approach to managing DID. While current evidence highlights its clinical value, significant gaps remain, particularly around phase transition criteria, long-term outcomes and treatment standardisation. Future studies should prioritise controlled trials, longitudinal follow-up and more precise definitions of phase progression to strengthen the empirical foundation for this treatment model.

The growing number of elderly individuals living alone presents a major social issue, encompassing loneliness, isolation, economic and health challenges, and increased risk ofsuicide. This study aimed to identify factors associated with suicide risk among elderly individuals living alone in Jeju.

A total of 4,742 participants completed questionnaires to assess their sociodemographic characteristics. Depressive symptoms were evaluated using the Short Form Geriatric Depression Scale-Korean version (sGDS-K), with a cutoff score of eight indicating the presence of depressive symptoms. Suicide risk was assessed using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview-Plus. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify significant correlates of suicide risk.

Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified the following factors as significantly associated with suicide risk: poor subjective health status (odds ratio [OR]=1.590, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.137–2.224), current drinking (OR=1.511, 95% CI: 1.119–2.042), hypertension (OR=1.419, 95% CI: 1.133–1.778), and sGDS scores ≥8 (OR=4.318, 95% CI: 3.408–5.469).

This study highlights the importance of intensive mental health services and socioeconomic support in preventing suicide among elderly individuals living alone. Targeted interventions should focus on those who have poor subjective health status, are current drinkers, have hypertension, or exhibit depressive symptoms.

Young people with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may struggle with mental health during university, yet few studies have looked at how university affects their mental health in adulthood. This study investigated the association between childhood ADHD symptoms and depressive symptoms at age 25, as well as the association with university graduation, and examined to what extent university graduation explains the association between ADHD symptoms and depressive symptoms.

ALSPAC (Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children) is a cohort study that collected information on children born in the 1990s. 1,574 individuals were included in analyses who had data available on ADHD hyperactivity symptoms at age nine, depressive symptoms at age 25, university graduation at age 21, 22, or 23, and confounders. Regression modelling and mediation analysis were used to understand the relationships between these factors.

Childhood ADHD symptoms, being in the top category of 7+ points on the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) at age nine, was associated with increased depressive symptoms (b=1.72, 95% CI: 0.34–3.10) and decreased likelihood of completing university (OR=0.42, 95% CI=0.25–0.69, p=0.001). University graduation mediated 11.7% of the relationship between childhood ADHD symptoms and depressive symptoms.

Childhood ADHD symptoms are negatively associated with university completion. There was only weak evidence for an association between childhood ADHD symptoms and adult depressive symptoms being mediated by university graduation. This highlights the importance of continuing investment in university mental health support and earlier support for children.

To explore how young people with a diagnosis of Anorexia Nervosa and their carers describe shifts in understanding, thinking and perspective during a clinician-moderated online forum group within a children’s eating disorder service.

Digital interventions are increasingly used within eating disorder services to provide peer connection, psychoeducation and clinician support. Young people with a diagnosis of Anorexia Nervosa and their carers from Mid Mersey children’s eating disorder service were offered digital platform based clinician moderated forum groups as part of TRIANGLE research project, which generated discussions around their illness and their understanding and perceptions of recovery from Anorexia Nervosa. Previous qualitative studies have shown perspectives and sense making inAnorexia Nervosaare central to recovery processes and online support groups can reduce isolation and influence emotional regulation, however, little is known about how shifts in understanding, meaning and perspectives of an eating disorder are experienced within online group intervention in both patients and their carers. This study addresses that gap by analysing group transcripts to identify the processes through which participation may reshape cognitive and emotional narratives related to eating disorder experience and recovery.

Verbatim transcripts from three cohorts of seven consecutive online forum groups were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis, using NVivo software the discussions of 13 youngpeople with a diagnosis of Anorexia Nervosa or Atypical Anorexia Nervosa and 13 of their carers were analysed with attention to changes in participants’cognitive and emotional narratives over time.

Ethical considerations: This included informed consent for research use, anonymisation of transcripts and processes for escalation of safeguarding concerns within the groups. The ethical approval for the TRIANGLE study was taken from REC Liverpool, REC Ref – 25/NW/0029.

Preliminary patterns suggest that young people experience changes in understanding and insight into the impacts of eating disorders, greater capacity for emotional awareness and reframing of ED identity over the course of the online groups. Carers also experience shifts in understanding of young people’s eating disorder behaviours but also a greater ability to reflect and an increased perspective of the impact of their own emotional regulation. Clinician support provided prompts to reframe experiences and promote self-reflection, increased awareness about concepts such as expressed emotion and accommodation within the participants.

These findings suggest that digital group interventions within children’s eating disorder services can support recovery by facilitating shifts in cognitive, emotional and meaning based processes that may underpin change and motivation for recovery.

Eating disorders (EDs) and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) frequently emerge during adolescence and often co-occur, particularly in bulimia nervosa and anorexia nervosa binge-eating/purging subtype. Although both behaviours are widely understood as maladaptive strategies for managing distress, the specific psychological functions of NSSI within ED populations remain insufficiently synthesised. This review aims to consolidate current evidence on the functions of NSSI among adolescents with EDs, drawing on theoretical frameworks such as Nock and Prinstein’s four-function model and emerging literature on affect regulation, self-punishment, interpersonal communication, and identity processes.

A systematic search of PsycINFO, Embase, MEDLINE, and the Behavioural and Psychological Sciences Collection (2019–2024) was conducted using terms related to eating disorders, non-suicidal self-injury, and adolescence. Eligible studies included peer-reviewed empirical research reporting primary data on NSSI functions among adolescents with a diagnosed ED. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracteddata, and resolved discrepancies through discussion. Extracted variables included study design, demographic characteristics, NSSI typology, and identified NSSI functions. A thematic synthesis approach was used to generate descriptive and analytical themes.

Eight studies met inclusion criteria, representing clinical, community, and longitudinal designs. Samples were predominantly female adolescents, with ED presentations largely characterised by binge-purge behaviours. NSSI methods included cutting, scratching, burning, hitting, and ED-specific self-endangering behaviours such as laxative misuse, insulin manipulation, and psychogenic polydipsia. Across studies, NSSI served multiple overlapping functions. The most consistent was emotion regulation, where self-injury was used to reduce overwhelming affect or alleviate emotional numbness. Other prominent functions included self-punishment, relief from dissociation, interpersonal signalling of distress, and responses to atypical cognitions such as quasi-psychotic experiences. Several studies also indicated that ED behaviours themselves may carry direct self-harm.

NSSI in adolescents with EDs is multifunctional and closely intertwined with the emotional, cognitive, and interpersonal difficulties characteristic of this population. Understanding these functions is essential for developing targeted, function-focused interventions that offer safer alternatives to the needs currently met through self-injury. Further research is needed to clarify how NSSI and ED behaviours interact over time and to guide more effective treatment approaches

Alcohol harm in the UK imposes a substantial clinical and societal burden, with 339,916 alcohol-specific hospital admissions recorded in 2023/24. Current pathways for identifying and supporting people at risk rely on self-identification of alcohol use.The aim of this work is to examine the extent to which self-identification as a “heavy drinker” aligns with clinically defined alcohol-risk levels and to identify the structural, stigma-related, and systemic barriers that prevent higher-risk drinkers from accessing appropriate support.

This analysis draws on nationally representative polling of 2,037 UK adults (mean age 48.77, SD=17.74, 52.33% female) applying the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-Consumption (AUDIT-C) scoring to examine clinical risk, self-perception of drinking identity, barriers to accessing support, and systemic implications for service design.

Among adults meeting AUDIT-C criteria for increasing or higher risk (25.8%), 90% did not self-identify as a heavy drinker, with most describing themselves as “moderate” or “occasional” drinkers. This disconnect challenges the continuing reliance on self-referral and identity-based messaging within NHS and workplace pathways. Help-seeking was shaped primarily by systemic barriers: long NHS wait times (24.5%), stigma (24.1%), and the cost of private care (19.4%), while “not knowing where to go for help” ranked only sixth (16.9%). These findings contradict policy assumptions that awareness deficits are the primary obstacle. Exposure to alcohol harm extended far beyond the drinker: 49.3% of UK adults knew someone they considered a heavy drinker, indicating significant family, peer, and workplace impact and highlighting a missed early-intervention opportunity within social networks.

Self-identification is not a reliable gateway to care; stigma-laden service framing actively excludes the majority at clinical risk; and capacity constraints limit timely support even when motivation exists. These findings highlight the need for a shift toward routine use of the AUDIT-C in primary care, workplace health initiatives, and NHS Health Checks so that alcohol-risk detection no longer depends on individuals self-identifying as “heavy drinkers”. Services should adopt identity-neutral language, such as referring to “supported reduction” or “health optimisation”, to reduce the stigma that prevents many higher-risk drinkers from seeking help. Supporting families, friends, and colleagues to play a constructive role in early recognition and intervention when they observe escalating risk, is critical. Commissioning should prioritise rapid-access and digitally enabled models of support, to reduce long wait times and make care more accessible and discreet for people who face barriers related to work, geography, or stigma.

Attitudes toward social engagement describe how individuals perceive, value, and participate in social interactions and communal activities. Currently upcoming trends such as Fear of missing out is governing social interactions but one may wonder are there accompanying trends such as Joy and Relief of missing out. Attitudes toward social engagement reflect how people navigate the tension between connection and independence and in this study, we aim to evaluate these attitudes based on Fear/Joy/Relief of missing out on social obligations. An exploration of balance between importance of internal values versus social acceptance is also explored.

A questionnaire on how social engagement is perceived by an individual was developed based on principles of anxiety feelings of being left out within social events compared to relief of missing social engagement and to satisfaction that comes from choosing not to participate in certain activities.

Alongside generic questions on autonomy as compared to social pressures were evaluated within survey.

There were 92 respondents on an online survey.

67% responders reported that they have moderate social interaction.

30% responders reported that they are affected by pressures of missing out.

Less than 20% responders reported comparison with others’ experiences.

15% reported distress on seeing others’ activities.

50–60% responders reported preference for solitude, time for oneself and own schedule.

45% responders reported satisfaction if they could decline obligations.

40% responders reported relief when they are excluded from social obligations.

45% responders reported relief if social plans fail.

There was evidence of empowerment when avoiding social media.

75% responders reported importance of internal values as opposed to social obligations.

Though 35% felt need to be a part of social group there was limited evidence on need for acceptance and even lesser on comparing with others.

Though Fear of missing out (FOMO) is an upcoming social trend within community interactions a generic survey indicated that a significant majority feel the need for importance of internal values, solitude and preference for time for individual activities as opposed to social obligations. Interestingly higher number of responders reported relief if excluded from social obligations and greater satisfaction if they could decline obligations. The survey also showed less importance for external validation from social circles with limited need for acceptance and even limited comparison with others’ activities. It may be interesting to note that a significant majority of responders felt a greater relief on missing outon social activities rather than the fear of missing out. One may wonder whether the Fear of missing out is overemphasized whilst in actuality there is relief or joy of being excluded.

This study aimed to examine the associations of childhood trauma, psychosocial resources (social support and resilience), and emotional distress with quality of life (QoL) in patients with functional dyspepsia (FD), and to explore potential differences between the epigastric pain syndrome (EPS) and postprandial distress syndrome (PDS) subtypes.

This cross-sectional study included 152 FD patients and 79 healthy controls who completed the Beck Depression Inventory (K-BDI-II), Beck Anxiety Inventory(K-BAI), Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (K-CTQ), Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-K), and World Health Organization Quality of Life Assessment Instrument Brief Form (WHOQOL-BREF). Negative affect was computed as a PCA-derived composite from K-BDI-IIemotional/cognitive items and K-BAI; QoL was a composite of WHOQOL-BREF domains. Group differences were assessed using ANOVA, and hierarchical regression analysis identified predictors of QoL within the patient group. Finally, multivariate regression models compared subtype-specific psychosocial pathways.

Compared to controls, patients with FD reported higher emotional distress and childhood trauma, lower psychosocial resources, and QoL. Negative affect was consistently associated with lower QoL in both subtypes (EPS β=−0.360; PDS β=−0.300). Although direct statistical comparison of pathways between subtypes showed no significant differences, the most prominent protective factor within each group appeared to differ: in the EPS group, higher social support was the most significant predictor of better QoL (β=0.381, p=0.001), whereas in the PDS group, resilience was the key protective factor (β=0.360, p=0.001).

Reducing emotional distress remains a central target for improving QoL in FD. Subtype-tailored emphases may be helpful–enhancing social support in EPS and bolstering resilience in PDS–while noting that between-subtype differences were limited and require confirmation in larger samples.

This study aimed to estimate the proportion meeting Rome III criteria for functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) and examine associations with suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, and perceived stress in child and adolescent psychiatric outpatients, including subgroup analyses by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional constipation (FC), and subtype complexity (single vs. multiple).

We recruited 137 outpatients aged 12–18 years (2021–2023). FGIDs wereclassified with the Questionnaire on Pediatric Gastrointestinal Symptoms–Rome III (QPGS-Rome III). Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation (BSS), item Center for Epidemiological Studies–Depression Scale for Children (CES-DC), self-report version of the Screen for Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders (SCARED), and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) assessed psychosocial burden. Group differences used standard comparisons (two-sided p<0.05).

Overall, 69.3% met Rome III criteria for ≥1 FGID subtype. Compared with the non-FGID group, the FGID group had higher scores on BSS (p=0.048), CES-DC (p=0.035), SCARED (p<0.001), and PSS (p=0.003). In three-group comparisons (non/single/multiple), CES-DC, SCARED, and PSS differed significantly, with single and multiple FGID groups exceeding non-FGID. In subgroup analyses, IBS-related groups showed higher anxiety and stress than non-FGID, whereas the single FC subtype did not differ significantly.

Among child and adolescent psychiatric outpatients, the proportion meeting the Rome III criteria for FGIDs was high and was significantly associated with psychological burden. These findings support integrating gastrointestinal symptom screening with mental health assessments at intake, with risk-stratified management for IBS-related presentations.