Scientific Program

Conference Series Ltd invites all the participants across the globe to attend 2nd International Conference on Mental Health & Human Resilience Cologne, Germany.

Day :

  • Emergency Mental Health | Human Resilience | Mental Health and Wellness | Mental Health Nursing
Location: Amsterdam Hall
Speaker

Chair

Lauren Boardman

College of Coastal Georgia, USA

Speaker

Co-Chair

Wanju Park

Kyungpook National University, South korea

Speaker
Biography:

Thomas J Franz received an MS in Biochemistry and an MD from the University of Oregon Medical School and completed a residency in Dermatology at the University of Washington School of Medicine. He has worked in the fields of cutaneous pharmacology and toxicology for over 40 years, both within academia and the pharmaceutical industry, as well as at the Food and Drug Administration. His special focus is in percutaneous absorption as it relates to issues of BA/BE and he is the developer of the Franz Cell. He has published more than 70 papers in peer reviewed journals and books.

Abstract:

Progress in the development of surrogate methods to evaluate the bioavailability and bioequivalence of drugs applied to the skin has resulted in the generation of a sufficient body of data to justify their use as alternatives to clinical trials for the approval of generic topical drug products. They can also be used during the formulation development phase of both new and generic topicals to assess the relative bioavailability of various test formulations. A number of these (excised skin permeation assay, stratum corneum tape-stripping, microdialysis, transepidermal water loss) have been shown to successfully duplicate the results of clinical trials and demonstrate the bioequivalence of generic products approved by the FDA with an AB rating. Though each of these surrogate tests may not have been sufficiently validated to the satisfaction of regulatory authorities, and each can be criticized as potentially having significant shortcomings, they do not all have the same potential limitation and the results of one can effectively complement the results of another. Selected pairings of these surrogate methods, depending on the therapeutic product class in question, in conjunction with a membrane rate of release assay and irritation/sensitization testing, can offer a scientifically justified, efficient pathway to the approval of generic topical drug products.

Speaker
Biography:

Kenneth J Ruggiero has completed his PhD at West Virginia University and has served on the Faculty at the Medical University of South Carolina since 2003. He is a Professor of Nursing and Psychiatry and Co-Director of the Technology Applications Center for Healthful Lifestyles. He has led as Principal Investigator for 4 grants funded by the National Institutes of Health and 7 other grants funded by the Department of Homeland Security and Veterans Administration. He has more than 140 scholarly publications. He serves as an Editorial Board Member for the Journal of Traumatic Stress, Journal of Interpersonal Violence and Journal of Anxiety Disorders.

Abstract:

Traumatic injuries affect people of all ages, genders and races. Trauma care and trauma systems continue to improve, but most of this progress has occurred in pre-hospital and acute care settings. Mental health needs (e.g., posttraumatic stress, depression), which affect more than 20% of patients who experience traumatic injury, continue to be poorly identified and treated after discharge. We recently launched the Trauma Resilience and Recovery Program (TRRP) to address this need at our Level 1 Trauma Center at the Medical University of South Carolina. TRRP is a new 4-step service that we believe has tremendous potential to serve as a cost-efficient, scalable, and sustainable model of care. It represents collaboration between leaders in Psychiatry, Trauma Surgery, Pediatrics, Nursing, and Tele-health. Our four-step process includes: In-hospital education; 30-day mental health telephone screening; comprehensive mental health assessment and delivery of best-practice treatment for PTSD or depression. Tele-health technology is offered at steps 3 and 4 to address barriers to accessing face-to-face services. This presentation will outline the structure of our service, data describing successes and challenges in our first year of operation and results of three pilot studies that we completed with adults and adolescents after traumatic injury. The pilot studies addressed the prevalence and risk factors associated with mental health recovery as well as a novel text messaging program to assist in self-monitoring emotional recovery. In our first 3 months since launching the program, we have served approximately 150 patients through the program.

Sumaiya Mohamed

Centre for the study of violence and reconciliation(CSVR), South Africa

Title: The impact of war and the on-going challenge to survive as a refugee in South Africa on mental health and resilience

Time : 11:55-12:20

Speaker
Biography:

Sumaiya Mohamed has completed her Masters degree in Community Based Counseling Psychology from the University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa. She currently works as a Psychosocial Trauma Professional at the Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation (CSVR), in the trauma clinic, providing psychotherapeutic services to torture survivors (individuals, groups and families).

Abstract:

The Centre for the Study of Violence and Reconciliation is a non-governmental organization that provides psychological services to torture survivors, with the aim of promoting psychosocial rehabilitation and mental wellbeing. A large group of individuals that we work with in the trauma clinic are refugees and asylum seekers coming from war torn countries in Africa, who are either direct or indirect torture survivors. Clients that come to the trauma clinic present with a wide spectrum of mental health disorders and current stressors. Common mental disorders that clients present with at the trauma clinic include: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder; Anxiety Disorders; Depressive disorders; Somatic disorders; and Psychosis. Coupled with this, clients face a number of current stressors in South Africa that impact on their mental wellbeing further. These current stressors include: Bereavement and loss; social isolation; adapting to a new environment; family breakdown; getting medical, legal and social needs met; and safety concerns. Taking into account the mental disorders presented in clients and their experience of current stressors that further impact on their mental wellbeing, we see a myriad of complexities that we work with in therapy with these clients. Reactions to these experiences are usually the result of a complicated interplay between past traumas (psychological impacts stemming from the torture experience in the country of origin), current stressors, and risk and protective factors. Using information gathered on the CSVR’s centralized M&E system as well as through clinical reflections on therapy with torture survivors, this paper explores the complexity of providing psychosocial services to survivors of torture in contexts of continuous traumatic stress and daily stressors. The implications for therapy in such situations are explored.

  • Workshop
Location: Amsterdam Hall

Session Introduction

Alhad Anant Pawar

INHS Asvini, India

Title: Mindfulness: An effective way to enhance Resilience

Time : 13:20-14:50

Speaker
Biography:

Alhad Anant Pawar is recognized as a Psychiatrist with a strong history and solid reputation for innovative military leadership, community based interventions, integrity based outcomes and an unprecedented ability to ensure optimal state of mind of the clientele. He has vast professional and personal experiences in his duties as a Military Leader, Keynote Speaker, Physician, Academician, Researcher, Author, Guide and Mindfulness Instructor. He is a strategic visionary who has combined 27+ years of experience in mental health with a comprehensive understanding of the issues in today’s life environments. He has completed his MBBS and MD from Armed Forces Medical College, India and currently commanding the largest hospital of Indian Navy.

Abstract:

Resilience is an individual's ability to adapt to stress and adversity and also to bounce back from a negative experience. A number of approaches to resilience-building have been developed, gathering attention mainly on the theory and practice of behavioral therapy. Development and enhancement of resilience among military personnel is highly essential as they experience higher degree of stressful situations and adversities. An emerging field in the study of resilience is application of mindfulness meditation towards enhancing resilience. Mindfulness is a process through which one pays attention to experiences in the present moment in an intentional and nonjudgmental manner. There has been a significant increase of interest in research, application and understanding psychological effects of mindfulness-based interventions in recent years. Numerous studies have examined and demonstrated the benefits of these interventions on various domains of human functioning, ranging from cognition, attention, psycho-somatic and physical symptoms, improved well-being and greater psychological resilience. Research has also demonstrated various psychological and neurobiological mechanisms through which mindfulness may lead to improved psychological functioning and enhanced resilience which in turn ensure ready and resilient workforce. This workshop conducted by Dr AA Pawar and Dr JK Panda aims to integrate findings from studies from various disciplines that highlight a variety of ways through which mindfulness enhances resilience. The workshop will also include an experiential exercise, during which the audience will be invited to engage in a brief, guided mindfulness practice to gain practical understanding of mindfulness.

Speaker
Biography:

Dr JK Panda is a medical graduate from SCB Medical College, Cuttack, Odisha and has done post-graduation in Public Health (MPH) from Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. His research interests include Mindfulness, Resilience, Positive Psychology, Quality of Life and overall Mental Health. He is trained in Vipassana and practicing mindfulness regularly. He has conducted mindfulness training programs for personnel from various trades, echelons and spheres of life. He has conducted various studies on mindfulness, resilience, stress, depression; and actively involved in a range of mental health initiatives towards bulletproofing of minds of military personnel. He aspires to help improve the quality and accessibility of mental health services through teaching, research, community outreach and advocacy.

Abstract:

Resilience is an individual's ability to adapt to stress and adversity and also to bounce back from a negative experience. A number of approaches to resilience-building have been developed, gathering attention mainly on the theory and practice of behavioral therapy. Development and enhancement of resilience among military personnel is highly essential as they experience higher degree of stressful situations and adversities. An emerging field in the study of resilience is application of mindfulness meditation towards enhancing resilience. Mindfulness is a process through which one pays attention to experiences in the present moment in an intentional and nonjudgmental manner. There has been a significant increase of interest in research, application and understanding psychological effects of mindfulness-based interventions in recent years. Numerous studies have examined and demonstrated the benefits of these interventions on various domains of human functioning, ranging from cognition, attention, psycho-somatic and physical symptoms, improved well-being and greater psychological resilience. Research has also demonstrated various psychological and neurobiological mechanisms through which mindfulness may lead to improved psychological functioning and enhanced resilience which in turn ensure ready and resilient workforce. This workshop conducted by Dr AA Pawar and Dr JK Panda aims to integrate findings from studies from various disciplines that highlight a variety of ways through which mindfulness enhances resilience. The workshop will also include an experiential exercise, during which the audience will be invited to engage in a brief, guided mindfulness practice to gain practical understanding of mindfulness.

  • Young Researchers Forum
Location: Amsterdam Hall

Session Introduction

Chelsea Robertson

King’s College London, UK

Title: Attitude Towards Trauma Exposure and Psychological Support in the Fire Service

Time : 14:50-15:15

Speaker
Biography:

Chelsea Robertson is currently pursuing MSc at King’s College London, having gained her undergraduate degree from University of Dundee, Scotland. She has spent time abroad studying Disaster Psychology in New York and trained in Psychological First Aid with the American Red Cross. Recently she is working under the supervision of Professor Neil Greenberg who is the President of the UK Psychological Trauma Society to investigate Trauma Risk Management (TRiM) as a means of early PTSD prevention in fire fighters. She was trained to become a TRiM Practitioner and will graduate this September with an MSc in Organizational Psychiatry and Psychology.

Abstract:

Trauma Risk Management (TRiM) is an in-house peer support program for traumatic stress that originated in the armed forces. TRiM was designed for use in the emergency services but can be used in any workforce at high risk to stressors which could have a detrimental effect on employee mental health. The intervention trains employees to recognize early distress signs in peers by conducting basic risk assessments. Previous research acknowledges TRiM as an accepted supplementary method of staff support, however does not address the stigmatic attitude of employees when help-seeking. This paper investigates the use of TRiM in the fire service, using qualitative methodology to explore the reasoning behind the positive attitude and adaption towards the intervention. Specifically, I will juxtapose Critical Incident Debriefing (CID) and TRiM as methods of mental health support, focusing on the difference in negative connotations of CID and positive attitude towards TRiM. By examining methods of support for mental health that are accepted in the workplace, we are promoting positive help-seeking. I argue that by understanding the reasoning behind whether an intervention is accepted and used we can take the positive aspects and more widely implement the desired and effective mental health support.

Speaker
Biography:

Azadeh Shahrad has obtained her Master degree in Landscape Planning in 2013. Presently, she is working as a Research Assistant at Department of Work Science, Business Economics and Environmental Psychology.

Abstract:

The global refugee crisis calls for attention to comprehend the psychological consequences of forced migration and displacement. Immigrants’ mental health has been at risk because of the exposure to trauma and violence before migration. Moreover, postmigration experiences e.g. having been exposed to mortal danger during flight, stress of adaption, discrimination etc. The aim of this study is to investigate if a ten weeks nature-based rehabilitation program can contribute to improved health and well-being among newly arrived refugees in Sweden during participation in a two-year integration program, managed by the Swedish Public Employment Service. The rehabilitation is performed at Alnarp Rehabilitation Garden and was scheduled for three days a week, each day lasting for four hours. The rehabilitation program is carried out in group of five to ten individuals and was managed by an occupational therapist, a physiotherapist and two horticulturists. The aim of the program is to enhance a salutogenic curative process for better wellness through sensory impressions, activities and rest. The evaluation is conducted as participant observation study, along with in-depth interviews at the end of the program, and with a register follow-up after one year. The work is conducted in a joint effort with the Swedish Public Employment Service and the healthcare authorities in Scania County in order to find means for sustainable integration of refugees into Swedish society. The study will run until March 2016 and is approved by regional ethic committee.

Mona Radwan

Zagazig University, Egypt

Title: Depression and substance abuse among refugees and immigrants of USA

Time : 15:40-16:05

Speaker
Biography:

Mona Radwan has completed her PhD from Zagazig University and Postdoctoral studies from Lund University, School of Medicine and School of Social Sciences respectively. She is one of the Member steering committees of Women in Great Sciences at Lund University (WINGS). She has published in reputed journals and has been serving as an Editorial Board Member of repute.

Abstract:

Mental health problems involving major depression disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and general anxiety disorder are familiar among lately arrived immigrants and refugees. Although many immigrants and refugees are resilient, traumatic experiences and resettlement stressors have an immense effect on their mental well-being. The study objective was to estimate the rate of major depression among refugees versus immigrants to United States of America and their relation to substance abuse. In 2004- 2005 our study was carried out as part of large survey directed to refugees who arrived after 1991 and immigrants who arrived before 1991 from Iraq to USA. Out of 5,490 participants, 350 were randomly selected of Iraqi born one, who lives in the greater Detroit of Michigan, USA. The study groups were classified into refugees and immigrants, furthermore divided into those with major depression and not. Participants were interviewed to answer standard questionnaire which include 103 questions. An informed consent had been taken from all participants in the study. Out of all the participants, 43.9% of the refugees have major depression which is significantly higher than immigrants; 11%, while the substance abuse was 49.7% among the immigrants significantly more than refugees; 41.5%. Moreover, years in USA, ethnicity, gender and smoking status are the predictors for the substance abuse among the study group; while gender, ethnicity, education and employment status are the predictors for the major depression among refugees. In conclusion there are multiple contributing factors to major depression and substance abuse among refugees than among immigrants.

Break: Networking & Refreshment Break 16:05-16:25 @ Foyer
Speaker
Biography:

Zhaleh Ahani has received her BA degree in Guidance and Counseling from Razi University of Kermanshah in Iran. She has completed MA in Family Counseling and has 7 papers published to her credit.

Abstract:

Irrational Attitudes and beliefs are one of the factors that prevented the marriage. Their rational attitudes and imaginations of person can play a significant role in creating a dysfunctional emotional relationship. Irrational attitudes are effective on mental health. Attitudes determine behavior. We can change behavior by changing attitudes. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral intervention on dysfunctional attitudes mate selection in female students. The study type was semi- experimental using pre-test and post-test with control group. The research instrument was attitude toward mate selection questionnaire. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of covariance. The results showed a significant difference between the two groups dysfunctional attitudes mate selection (Ease of effort, Love is enough, Idealization, Opposites Complement). According to the findings, cognitivebehavioral intervention in changing dysfunctional attitudes mate selection can be an effective step in meeting the youth to the mate selection

  • Video Presentations
Location: Amsterdam Hall

Session Introduction

Ata ur Rehman

Dow University of Health Sciences, Pakistan

Title: Patterns of anxiety among patients with Stoma and its determinants: A single center experience

Time : 16:50-17:15

Speaker
Biography:

Ata ur Rehman has completed his MBBS from Jinnah Medical Dental College in 2008. He has completed his training in General Surgery for Post graduation program. He is currently working as a Registrar in the Department of Surgery at Dr. Ziauddin University Hospital KDLB campus.

Abstract:

Stoma surgeries have become a common procedure for patients suffering from various abdominal pathologies, which lead to increase in life expectancy of patients with severe abdominal diseases. There are several psychological conditions which stoma patients have to deal with including anxiety, depression, fear and social isolation. This study aimed to examine the burden of anxiety among stoma patients and the determinants leading towards anxiety among stoma patients in Pakistan. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 97 in-patients at surgical unit of Civil Hospital Karachi. Patients included those who had undergone abdominal surgery for various abdominal pathologies and had been given a stoma from January 2013 to March 2014 were included in this study. Data was collected through a modified anxiety questionnaire which included questions on stoma management, care, anxiety and fears related to stoma. The overall prevalence of anxiety regarding stoma among patients was 56.7% (n=55). Patients younger than 30 years of age were found to be more anxious 58.2% (n=32). Females were more likely to be anxious as compared to males; (OR=1.62, 95% CI=0.68-3.85, p-value=0.274). Patients were twice more likely to be anxious if they had a double barrel stoma as compared to loop stoma; (OR=2.47, 95% CI=0.61-9.93, p-value=0.203). This study suggests that a considerable proportion of patients with stoma suffer from anxiety but this study did not find any significant determinant of anxiety among stoma patients, perhaps due to smaller sample size. We need further evidence on anxiety among disease specific stoma patients with longitudinal studies having larger samples.

Speaker
Biography:

Sara Khan is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and runs her own clinic for mental health. Currently she is associated with The Indus Hospital, a charitable hospital in Karachi and is serving as Head of the Counseling Department nationwide for Global Fund’s TB Program, Pakistan. She is also a Member of Editorial Boards online and in local journals.

Abstract:

There is a noticeable change in the approach with which women nowadays seek help for diseases like breast cancer, primarily due to awareness campaigns associated with it, but what happens after the procedure is of great significance too.This cross sectional study focuses on the several psychological connotations attached to mastectomy and how the patients cope with it.The sample size consisted of 88 in patients at the different surgical units of the Civil hospital, Karachi from January 2012-December 2014; who had under gone mastectomy. The questionnaire was administered before they were discharged i.e., within 3 days of the surgical procedure. The patients were asked if they were willing to participate in this study, those who agreed signed the consent form and then it was preceded by asking them questions from a standardized tool. A self made questionnaire was constructed keeping in mind the nature and specification of the disease, which consisted of 20 questions related to anxiety and depression, a mixture of psychological and physiological symptoms attached to it. There were a total of 88 patients out of which 36 (41%) were aged [51 to 60] years, 24 (27.2%) of the patients lies under age category of [41 to 50] years, age category of [61 and above] were 17 in number (19.3%) whereas the least number of patients i.e., 11 (12.5%) comprised of [30-40] years of age, which happens to be the youngest of all the age categories. The pattern of depression and anxiety was found to be similar among all age categories i.e., severe level of depression and anxiety was most prevalent whereas moderate level of such symptoms was followed by it, relatively fewer patients felt mild or no depression symptoms. It was concluded that going through mastectomy leads to moderate to severe level of depression and anxiety, primarily because the females feel incomplete and insecure after losing a part of them.

  • Panel Discussions & End of Day-1
  • Mental Disorders | Psychiatric Emergencies | Diagnosis & Therapy | Mental Health Treatment
Location: Amsterdam Hall
Speaker

Chair

Lisa Trepanier

University of Toronto, Canada

Speaker

Co-Chair

Wanju Park

Kyungpook National University, South korea

Session Introduction

Denny Meyer

Swinburne University of Technology, Australia

Title: Screening for Suicide Risk

Time : 10:40-11:05

Speaker
Biography:

Denny Meyer has completed a DBL from the University of South Africa. She is an Associate Professor of Statistics at Swinburne University of Technology in Melbourne, Australia. She has published more than 100 papers in reputable journals.

Abstract:

General practitioners have limited consultancy time to work with patients presenting with mental health problems and their options are limited in terms of what they can do for these patients. An online tool for assessing suicide risk has been developed in order to help GPs detect when the level of patient distress is high and this paper explores the options for integrating this tool within medical practices. The tool was developed by using binary logistic regression to predict self reported suicide ideation in an online sample of nearly 17,000 clients on the basis of K6 and other relevant data. The model performed well for males and females in all age groups (18-64) and was validated using a diagnostic measure for depression. A sample of ten healthcare professionals have highly commended the simplicity of the tool and confirmed the need for such a tool, especially if it can be incorporated in the medical software utilized by medical centers. However, the actual implementation requires more testing. In order to be effective the risk of false alarm must be minimized, but at the same time patient safety must be ensured. A suicidal barometer model is envisaged with appropriate recommendations for GP actions matched to the level of risk predicted. There is some degree of dissension in the field regarding how this should be done, although appropriately designed (online) education materials, direct questioning regarding suicide planning, the development of safety plans with patients and finally, emergency assistance (e.g. hospitalization) are commonly considered as useful approaches.

Ángel Sánchez-Bahíllo

Mental Health Center of Cartagena, Spain

Title: The problem of diagnosis informed by a psychotherapeutic approach

Time : 11:05-11:30

Speaker
Biography:

Angel Sanchez Bahillo is trained in General Adult Psychiatry at Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca, Spain and trained in Medical Psychotherapy at West Midlands Deanery, UK. He has completed his PhD at Universidad de Murcia, Spain. He has developed the “Modelo Mar Menor” as an approach to mental health incorporating psychoanalytic and systemic thinking into the management of patients from primary care through the sanitary system. He has published numerous papers in reputed journals and has been serving as an Editor for the Royal College of Psychiatrists Psychotherapy Faculty Newsletter.

Abstract:

Understanding patients is crucial to undertake a therapeutic approach. Psychiatry currently relies mostly on diagnostic categories that rely on a phenomenological and statistical basis with putative biological foundations. ICD and DSM offer a multiplicity of diagnostic categories that tend to reify symptoms into diseases for which we don’t know an etiopathology. Actually, in some cases, we are positive that these diseases do not exist in the terms described by the catalogues. These diagnostic labels are a poor guide to treatment and tend to induce stigma, to dissociate the patient from the origin of his problems and to facilitate the development of an identity around the diagnosis. Formulation, as an alternative to categorical diagnosis, approaches the complexity of the human being and aims to empower him both to understand and to manage his suffering. Formulations are theory laden and acknowledge being so. Different theoretical approaches to the understanding of a patient are discussed, focusing on psychoanalytic and systemic models.

Paul F. Granello

The Ohio State University, U.S.A

Title: Suicide Risk Assessment: Clinical Aphorisms

Time : 11:55-12:20

Speaker
Biography:

Paul F Granello is an Associate Professor of Counselor Education at The Ohio State University, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and one of the Co- Founders of the State of Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation. He has authored or co-authored five books (three on suicide) and published over 30 peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters. He has received $2.5 million in grant funding for suicide prevention and presented more than 200 times at national and international conferences.

Abstract:

Suicide risk assessment involves a complex set of skills that requires knowledge, training and experience. Mental health professionals who conduct such assessments need concrete, practical information on suicide assessment in order to conduct culturally and developmentally appropriate suicide risk assessments. In general, the determination of suicide risk is based on a comprehensive assessment of individual risk factors and warning signs as well as a careful appraisal of protective factors that can work to mitigate the risk. Much of the research emphasizes the content of suicide risk assessment and instead of the principles that guide the process of assessment. The presenter’s own research, clinical experience and comprehensive reviews of the literature reveal a dozen overarching principles that guide the implementation of suicide assessment, regardless of setting, population or specific type or method of assessment used. These clinical aphorisms guide the work of individuals who engage in suicide assessment, becoming a part of the expert thinking that directs the process. Taken together, they can form a foundation for the process of suicide risk assessment. Ultimately, a comprehensive and thorough suicide risk assessment is the cornerstone of appropriate and effective interventions with suicidal individuals.

Ekhlas Al-Gamal

King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Saudi Arabia

Title: Testing the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale in Arabic patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Time : 12:20-12:45

Speaker
Biography:

Ekhlas Al-Gamal is an Associate Professor at College of Nursing, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. She is credited as an author in more than 20 publications in high impact factor international journals. Her research interests are psychiatric and mental health nursing (adult and children), patient's psychological distress of living with acute or chronic illnesses, caregivers' psychological-wellbeing and their experiences, internet addiction and anticipatory grief. She is a Member of Advisory Committee of the Royal College of Nursing International Conference, UK since 2010 to till date. She is an Editorial Board Member of International ISI Journal and Reviewer of many international journals.

Abstract:

The aim of this study was to develop the Arabic version of Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (A-HADS) and test its reliability and validity for the assessment of anxiety and depression in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). There is evidence that patients with COPD suffered from anxiety and depression. A valid and reliable tool can help clinicians and researchers to assess anxiety and depression in such group in order to provide appropriate screening and interventions. The A-HADS and Quality of Life Index pulmonary version (QLI-P) were completed by 67 Jordanian patients with COPD. Internal consistency reliability and construct validity were calculated. The Arabic version of the HADS was found to be acceptable to assess anxiety and depression in patients with COPD. Cronbach's alpha coefficient has been found to be 0.75, for the A-HADS anxiety sub-scale and 0.82 for the A-HADS depression sub-scale. A-HADS scores correlated significantly with QLI-P and demonstrated good construct validity. This preliminary validation study supports the A-HADS as a reliable and valid instrument for the assessment of anxiety and depression in Arabic speaking patients with COPD.

Break: Lunch Break 12:45-13:20 @ Foyer

Joan Haliburn

University of Sydney, Australia

Title: Cumulative trauma, co-morbidity, diagnosis and treatment

Time : 13:20-13:45

Speaker
Biography:

Joan Haliburn is a Consultant child, adolescent & family Psychiatrist. She is a Clinical Senior Lecturer at University of Sydney and Senior Supervisor of Complex Trauma Unit, Westmead Hospital and is also in private practice. She was the President of Australia and New Zealand Association of Psychotherapy between 2000 and 2003 and Director of its training division for 10 years. She has published numerous papers, presented workshops and papers in Australia and internationally. She has contributed chapters to several books. She is an International Fellow, American Psychiatry Association and is currently on the Board of Directors, International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation.

Abstract:

Objective: To discuss cumulative trauma and co-morbidity in the context of diagnosis and effective treatment, particularly in adolescents. Method: Four adolescents who met more than one Axis 1 diagnosis along with Axis 11 diagnosis who received treatment inappropriately for 3 to 5 years, resulting in increased psychosocial morbidity. A case study of 1 adolescent, Jennifer is described. Results: Adolescents, like adults can have co-morbid disorders on both Axis 1 and 11 which interfere with diagnosis and response to treatment. Appropriate diagnosis led to appropriate treatment of Jennifer, improvement and return to school. Conclusions: Clinicians tend to underestimate the severity of adolescent mental health disturbance particularly when complexity of issues presents themselves. Instead a painstaking and thorough assessment of all facets of their presentation needs to be undertaken. This will result in better treatment results and lowered morbidity and better psychosocial functioning.

  • Special Session
Location: Amsterdam Hall

Session Introduction

Shauna McKay-Burke & Olivia

Canada

Title: Journey through psychosis, healing to resilience

Time : 14:10-14:35

Speaker
Biography:

Shauna McKay-Burke is a LPN (Licenced Practical Nurse) with 12 years experience in psychiatry; adult, youth & forensics, as well she has worked in Geriatrics, Rehab, Perioperative, and VON nursing. A graduate of the Douglas College Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Program. Her passions are Mental Health Nursing, Journalism & most of all her family! Olivia Burke is a 20 year old Fashion Design Student at the NB College of Craft & Design. She is a former patient of 4 South Mental Health & Addictions Unit, IWK hospital, NS Canada. Her passions are Fashion Design and she dreams of visiting NYC's fashion hub and creating her own fashion line.

Abstract:

“It is a surreal experience to watch your child unravel before your very eyes and one that you are not likely to forget.” Shauna McKay-Burke 2012. In 2012, our family went on a journey both profound and horrifying. Our firstborn, Olivia, just 16, experienced a severe and persistent illness, that of psychosis. She was hospitalized on the very floor of which I work, for over 3 months.She was incredibly ill, and we had to watch. Psychosis is defined as a disturbance in reality. Olivia heard voices, or perceptual disturbances as we call them, and they were at her continually, she had no reprieve. It was torture for all of us, but especially for her. Our family very nearly came apart at the seams. I was caught in the cross fire of knowing too much about mental illness and its ramifications, armed only with the love for our daughter. She was absolutely tortured. To make matters worse my husband couldn’t comprehend how his little girl could become so quickly debilitated and fragmented, and my other children were too young and too scared to understand what was happening to their sister. In my mind, I was alone, at sea.I had to carry everyone and pray that Olivia would come through this. My child, my marriage and even my career hung in the balance. Close friends and family all had their opinions, and not all was favorable. Olivia was so incredibly ill. We tried over 10 antipsychotics, 5 full med trials, nothing was working, and when I say nothing, I mean nothing. It was hands down the darkest time of my life... this is our journey. Olivia missed 5 months of school, the honor student went to summer school. Most days I could barely rouse her. She slept 17 hours a day from med sedation. I watched in horror, as dreams we all shared for her, now so far away. In the darkest corners of my mind, I told myself at least my child was still alive. I secretly wondered if she would ever recoup. We honestly went to hell and back as a family. To make matters worse, I grew up in a profoundly mentally ill family tree. My grandfather had manic depression/bipolar disorder, and as a young girl I cared for him, but stigma surrounded our family like a cocoon. No one in my family talked about such things. In the bleakest moments of Olivia's illness I realized the fear of mental illness is nothing more than fear itself. If I wanted to get my daughter well, I had to be real and transparent about her illness and speak from the heart. Hiding behind the veil of stigma serves no one, least of all those most afflicted. I'm told that RESILIENCE is defined as an individual’s ability to adapt to stress and adversity. Well if that is so, then Olivia is the most resilient person I know. Not only did she graduate from high school, she did so with honors, and on time. She lives now in New Brunswick, and attends The College of Craft & Design, in her 2nd year of Fashion. At 14, she went to France to visit a former classmate; she loved Paris & all its fashion. Her dream is to become a fashion designer and somehow I think she will do just that. Olivia was a lifeguard & swim instructor before she became ill. 4 years ago I would not have dreamed it possible, but she works in both provinces once again in the pool! ' Olivia is the most resilient person that I know. She's spoken over the years on behalf of Mental Health initiatives for Youth. She always wants to give back. She does not fear stigma. Olivia knows firsthand that those with mental illness can recoup their lives with hard work & their resiliency and recover.

  • Workshop
Location: Amsterdam Hall

Session Introduction

Darcy Haag Granello

The Ohio State University, USA

Title: Using a Partnership Approach for Suicide Prevention Programming: An Enhanced Public Health Approach

Time : 14:35-15:35

Speaker
Biography:

Darcy Haag Granello is a Professor of Counselor Education at The Ohio State University, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Director of The Ohio State University Suicide Prevention Program. She has co-authored three books and published over 60 peer-reviewed journal articles. She has presented more than 200 times at national and international conferences.

Abstract:

Suicide prevention is a shared responsibility and programs that use broad-based partnerships within schools and communities have greater buy-in for creating prevention programming that is effective for the population served. In the U.S., suicide is the second leading cause of death for college students. Nationally, about 1.4% of college students attempt suicide each year and nearly 7% of college students seriously consider suicide. The Ohio State University has the largest campus suicide prevention program in the U.S., and the state of Ohio is leading a national effort in campus suicide prevention. Recently, Ohio became the first state to pass a law requiring all state institutions of higher education to provide all students, faculty and staff information about available suicide prevention programs. The Ohio State University uses a multi-pronged effort shared by more than 50 campus partners and coordinated by the OSU Suicide Prevention Program. The approach has been identified by the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration as a best practice approach to suicide prevention. Research demonstrates the effectiveness of this type of partnership model in reducing mental health stigma and increasing students’ access to care. This session will overview the components of the program, discuss how aspects of the program can be implemented at other universities and provide concrete examples of how academic institutions can work together to make suicide prevention a shared campus responsibility.

  • Poster Presentations @ 16:00-16:30
Location: Amsterdam Hall
  • Panel Discussions & Awards Ceremony