Eating disorders are characterized by a persistent disturbance in eating and/or eating-related behavior, resulting in altered food consumption or absorption, which can significantly compromise physical health as well as psychosocial functioning. These disorders are closely linked with stressful experiences which university students configure a group prone to development.

The objective is to evaluate the impact of eating disorders on young people when entering and staying at university.

This is an observational, quantitative, analytical and cross-sectional study, in which 1300 (one thousand and three hundred) medical students were invited, of both sexes and over 18 years of age from the 1st (first) to the 12th (twelfth) year. period of the Medicine course at the University of Oeste Paulista (UNOESTE) with 91 students joining. A structured interview was applied via online, aiming at collecting sociodemographic and occupational data in conjunction with the application of the Periodic Eating Compulsion Scale - ECAP, assessing the existence and degree of eating disorders in medical students.

Mean age 22.7 ± 3.9 years, predominantly female (76.9%) and white ethnicity (86.8%). Most live alone or with a parent (82.5%). With regard to eating habits, 81 (89.0%) said they did not follow a nutrition professional’s diet, and 84 (92.3%) have at least 3 meals a day. Lunch is eaten by 100% of the participants, while supper is the least consumed meal (17.6%). A total of 24 (26.4%) participants said they had little time to eat, and almost half (46.2%) did not prepare their own meals, with 12.5% choosing to eat salted or not. eating a certain meal. The ECAP binge eating score had a median of 9 (11.5) points, with a minimum score equal to 1 and a maximum equal to 41. Sixty-eight (74.7%) of the participants were classified as having no binge eating, with moderate binge eating 15 (16.5%), and severe, 8 (8.8%).

There is a need for changes in lifestyle aspects in order to present healthier meals in appropriate amounts, in addition to an adequate therapeutic approach to these disorders. Research funding agency We also declare that we received financial support from the Institutional Program for Scientific Initiation Scholarships (PROBIC).

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A 56-year-old patient diagnosed with bipolar affective disorder type II, who remains stable, with no manifest episodes, thanks to aripiprazole 60mg daily.

The aim is to carry out a brief review of the use of the drug as the only stabiliser in bipolar affective disorder.

A 56-year-old patient, who has been suffering from episodes of hypomania since the age of 40, with episodes of depression. After poor tolerance to the use of the usual stabilisers, and the impossibility of using antidepressants due to hypomanic swings, it was decided to start treatment with aripiprazole orally, up to a maximum of 60mg daily. Despite the fact that the patient, with this treatment, had no side effects and remained more stable psychopathologically, the patient did not comply adequately with the correct dosage, due to his rotating work shifts. This fact explained that although he acknowledged an improvement, he continued with episodes of depressive symptoms lasting several days followed by episodes of hypomanic characteristics.

For this reason, it was decided to change treatment to aripiprazole long-acting injectable, in order to ensure linear blood levels of the drug. Initially, it was decided to prescribe 400mg every 28 days. However, after the first administration, 20 days later, the patient began to show dysphoric mood, with marked emotional lability, living in an egodystonic manner. For this reason, the dose was increased to 600mg on a monthly basis. Since then, after a year and a half with the same treatment, the patient has been stable and in line. There has been no further decompensation of the underlying psychopathology and no side effects.

Aripiprazole in TAB is superior to placebo in type I patients, mainly affecting manic and mixed episodes, but not so much in depressive episodes. It has also been observed that it not only acts in the acute phases, but also has a stabilising function, preventing manic episodes.

One study showed that up to 65% of patients on oral aripiprazole in whom it was replaced by AOM remained clinically stable. In the same study, approximately 50% of those who completed 52 weeks of follow-up were able to maintain clinical stability.

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Epilepsy is one of the most common serious brain illness, with symptoms influenced by multiple risk factors and a strong genetic predisposition, rather than having a single expression and cause¹. Neuropsychiatric symptoms in epilepsy can encompass manifestations such as mood alterations, anxiety, sleep disturbances, psychosis, and behavioral disorders. While the motor and sensory manifestations of epileptic seizures are widely recognized, neuropsychiatric symptoms accompanying epilepsy are often underestimated. Therefore, it is essential to understand the most prevalent epidemiological profile of these patients to improve the diagnosis and management of these symptoms.

Our goal was to evaluate the neuropsychiatric behavior of epilepsy patients in Brazilian over the past 3 years through hospitalization data in order to outline an epidemiological and behavioral profile.

A cross-sectional, descriptive, retrospective, and quantitative study was conducted on hospitalizations of individuals simultaneously diagnosed with epilepsy, schizotypal and delusional disorders, and mood disorders in all five regions of Brazil (South, Southeast, Midwest, North, and Northeast) between February 2020 and December 2022. Data from January 2020 were not available. The data used were collected through the Department of Health Informatics of the Brazilian Unified Health System (DATASUS) in the “Hospital Information System of SUS” section, gathering information regarding the nature of care, age range, gender, and ethnicity of the patients.

The analysis covers the years 2020 to 2022, totaling 503,045 hospitalizations. In 2022, the highest number of cases occurred (≈ 37.55%), followed by 2021 (≈ 33.62%) and 2020 (≈ 28.81%). Urgent hospitalizations represented ≈ 90.85% of the total. The most affected age group was 30 to 39 years old (≈ 18.30%). Men were more affected than women (≈ 52.03% and ≈ 47.96%, respectively), and Caucasians accounted for ≈ 36.07% of the hospitalizations. The average length of stay was 19.1 days, and the mortality rate was 1.4%.

Thus, there is a gradual and annual increase in the number of hospitalizations during the observed period. While there is a minimal disparity between the affected genders, it is evident that the profile of male, caucasian, and adult patients is the most prevalent. Moreover, the predominantly urgent nature of hospitalizations points to an alarming scenario regarding this issue. From the analysis of the data obtained in the study, there is a clear need for interventions capable of reducing the prevalence of hospitalizations for neuropsychiatric symptoms in epilepsy patients in Brazil.

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Neuropsychiatric disorders are the leading cause of disability worldwide, as seen in cases such as depression, anxiety, bipolar mood disorder and schizophrenia, which can be developed or exacerbated by the use of psychoactive substances. Most mental disorders have an early onset, often leading to early and/or permanent disability, increasing the need and cost of healthcare. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the identification of the epidemiological profile of these cases in the South of Brazil in order to enhance the diagnosis and reduce the costs associated with managing these disorders.

The present study aimed to analyze statistical data regarding hospitalizations related to mental disorders caused by the use of psychoactive substances and alcohol in the southern region of Brazil, highlighting the pathological scenario and identifying the most prevalent profiles of these disorders in this region.

A cross-sectional, descriptive, retrospective, and quantitative study was conducted on hospitalizations of individuals diagnosed with mental and behavioral disorders due to the use of psychoactive substances and alcohol in the states of the Southern region of Brazil (Paraná, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul) between February 2020 and December 2022. Data of January 2020 were not available. The data used were collected through the Department of Health Informatics of the Brazilian Unified Health System (DATASUS) in the “Hospital Information System of SUS” section, gathering information regarding the nature of the care, age range, gender, and ethnicity of the patients.

The study covers the years 2020 to 2022, indicating a total of 81,608 hospitalizations, with the year 2022 having the highest number of cases (≈ 37.13%), followed by 2021 (≈ 33.30%) and 2020 (≈ 29.55%). The states with the highest number of hospitalizations were Rio Grande do Sul (≈ 54.90%), Paraná (≈ 29.29%), and Santa Catarina (≈ 15.79%). Urgent hospitalizations accounted for ≈ 87.29% of the total. The most affected age group was 30 to 39 years old (≈ 25.61%). Men were more affected than women (≈ 81.70% and ≈ 18.28%, respectively). Caucasians accounted for ≈ 64.29% of the hospitalizations. The average length of stay was 20.8 days, and the mortality rate was 0.32%.

There is a clear increase in the number of hospitalizations related to mental disorders caused by the use of psychoactive substances in the period from 2020 to 2022 in the southern region of Brazil, with the highest number of cases in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. The most affected population consisted of Caucasian men aged 30 to 39 years old. Furthermore, these results may be related to the increasing trend of psychoactive substance use among the Brazilian population and also the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a period of underreporting due to social isolation.

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Craniofacial surgery is a specialized field that addresses congenital and acquired deformities of the head and face. While the physical outcomes of craniofacial surgery are well-documented, less attention has been given to the psychological well-being of adult patients. This abstract aims to explore self-esteem issues among adult patients treated at the Craniofacial Surgery Sector of HCPA (Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre), where a substantial proportion of adult patients have reported self-esteem problems.

1. 1. To assess the prevalence of self-esteem issues among adult patients (≥18 years old) attending the HCPA Craniofacial Surgery Sector.

2. 2. To examine potential contributing factors to self-esteem problems in this specific patient population.

3. 3. To evaluate the impact of self-esteem on the mental health and psychosocial functioning of adult craniofacial surgery patients.

4. 4. To propose recommendations for psychosocial support and intervention strategies tailored to the needs of adult patients in this context.

This cross-sectional study involved 132 adult patients who had undergone or were scheduled for craniofacial surgery at HCPA. Participants reported self-esteem issues in their talk with the hospital’s physicians, and their medical records were reviewed to collect demographic and clinical data. Additionally, participants provided information about their mental health status and psychosocial functioning.

Among the 39 adult patients included in the study, 37 (94.9%) reported experiencing self-esteem issues, such as lack of confidence or feeling unattractive. The most commonly reported contributing factors were visible facial differences, social interactions, and prior surgical experiences. Patients with lower self-esteem had a higher likelihood of reporting symptoms of depression and anxiety and reported lower overall psychosocial functioning compared to those with higher self-esteem.

This reveals a strikingly high prevalence of self-esteem issues among adult patients attending the Craniofacial Surgery Sector at HCPA. These findings underscore the importance of recognizing and addressing the psychological well-being of adult craniofacial surgery patients. Comprehensive psychosocial support, including counseling, peer support, and interventions to enhance self-esteem, should be integrated into the care of these patients. By addressing self-esteem concerns, healthcare providers can improve the mental health and overall quality of life of adult craniofacial surgery patients.

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In recent years, mental health has gained prominence in public health, prompting thorough investigations into psychiatric condition trends. This study conducts a comprehensive epidemiological analysis of hospitalizations for Schizophrenia, Schizotypal, and Delirium Disorders in Rio Grande do Sul (RS) over the past five years. By revealing these patterns, it enhances our understanding of regional mental health dynamics and offers insights for intervention strategies, resource planning, and improved mental healthcare. The ultimate goal is to advance more effective and accessible mental healthcare in RS and beyond.

This study aims to analyze the prevalence and epidemiological profile of hospitalizations due to psychiatric disorders to assist in the diagnosis and outcome of affected patients.

A cross-sectional, descriptive, retrospective, and quantitative study was conducted regarding hospitalizations for Schizophrenia, Schizotypal Disorders, and Delirium in the state of RS between January 2018 and November 2022. Data were collected from the Department of Informatics of the Brazilian Unified Health System (DATASUS) in the “Hospital Information System of SUS” section, focusing on the nature of care, age group, gender, and ethnicity of the patients. The information was aggregated over the five-year period based on the four mentioned descriptors and subsequently analyzed to establish a profile of hospitalizations during that period.

The analysis spans from 2018 to 2022, encompassing a total of 28,345 hospitalizations. In 2019, there was the highest number of cases (22.21%), followed by 2018 (21.08%). Urgent care admissions constituted 85.34% of the total. The age group most affected was 35 to 39 years (11.8%). Men were more affected than women (60.18%), and the majority of hospitalizations were among the Caucasian ethnicity (75.12%). The average length of stay was 23.7 days, and the mortality rate stood at 0.26%.

The increasing trend in hospitalizations, peaking in 2019, highlights the need for preventive measures. Urgent admissions (85.34%) underscore the demand for accessible mental health resources. Men in the 35 to 39 age group are disproportionately affected, suggesting specific risk factors. The predominance of Caucasian ethnicity emphasizes the need for culturally sensitive care. A longer average length of stay (23.7 days) underscores treatment complexity, while a low mortality rate (0.26%) signals effective medical care. In essence, these findings inform tailored mental health policies to enhance service quality and prioritize patient-centered approaches.

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Dementia is a syndrome of high prevalence and health impact. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) questionnaire is a screening tool whose use has increased in recent years, especially in cases of mild cognitive impairment. Some studies suggest that its ability to detect cognitive impairment, especially in early or mild stages, seems to be greater than gold-standard instruments (Ciesielska et al., 2016).

We have performed a meta-analysis of reliability generalization to see if different adaptations and use in different contexts show consistent results.

We performed a literature search in PyscINFO and Medline with the terms “Cognitive impairment” AND “internal consistency” AND “Cronbach”, using the following inclusion criteria:

1. 1. Be a study in which the MoCA scale was applied to a population sample.

2. 2. Studies published in the last 10 years.

3. 3. Studies that provide the reliability coefficient or sufficient data to calculate them.

4. 4. Be written in English or Spanish.

We have limited our study to the last 10 years and the English language has given us a total of 19 results in Medline and 132 results in PsycINFO. Subsequently, we completed this search by snowball sampling.

A random effects model was assumed for the statistical calculations and the transformation of our values using the Hakstian and Whalen (1976) proposal. Statistical analysis was performed with the MAJOR package of the Janovi program, based on the R environment.

We obtained a mean reliability for the transformed test scores of 0.42 (95% CI: 0.38 - 0.45), as well as high heterogeneity measured by Cochran’s Q statistic and the I2 index, which is attributed after analysis of moderating variables to the geographical adaptation of the questionnaire and the type of patient on whom it is applied. Our Funnel Plot graph indicates that we do not appear to have committed a publication bias.

Our meta-analysis shows high heterogeneity, mainly explained by the population of origin, both geographically (continent) and clinically (presence of primary cognitive impairment or not), with special incidence in those with impairment secondary to other pathologies, mainly neurological. However, we should consider the high probability that we have not included important variables in our analysis that could increase the explanatory power of our model.

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Many mental health conditions, including anxiety, mood disorders, and depression, can be effectively treated at a relatively low cost. Exercise interventions can be a therapeutic strategy, but even though exercise has consistently been shown to improve physical health, cognitive function, and psychological well-being, as well as reduce depression and anxiety symptoms, this intervention is often neglected in mental health care services.

The study aims to assess the feasibility of incorporating an Exercise Intervention Program (EIP) as a therapeutic pathway within the Mental Health and Addictions Program (MHAP) in Nova Scotia, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of the program on mental health outcomes and incremental costs, and the patient acceptability and satisfaction with the program.

This proof-of-concept study has a pragmatic, prospective, controlled observational design with an embedded one-phase qualitative component. Patients with a primary diagnosis of depression or anxiety attending the Rapid Assessment and Stabilization Program (RASP, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada) will be offered to receive 60-minute exercise sessions three times per week, per 12 weeks. Patients with similar mental health conditions that have opted to wait for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with the community provider and declined from the EIP will be part of the control group. A certified recreational therapist will conduct the EIP. Participants of both groups (EIP and control condition) will be assessed at baseline and then weekly for four weeks, six weeks and then at 12 weeks post-enrollment. Primary outcomes include differences in the mean change in functional (well-being, resilience, and recovery) and symptom variables (depression, anxiety, and suicidal risk), which will be assessed through online validated scales/questionnaires. Service variables (patient acceptance and satisfaction) and health care utilization (crisis calls, emergency department visits, hospital admissions and readmissions, length of stay for each admission) will comprise the secondary outcomes.

The results of the study will provide information about the effectiveness of EIP in the treatment of anxiety and depression compared to those only wait-listed to receive CBT or counselling from a CMHA provider. The study will also inform about the acceptability and satisfaction of the EIP, as well as the incremental cost-effectiveness of the intervention compared to the control condition.

This proof-of-concept study will demonstrate the effectiveness of EIP as an adjunctive or alternative therapeutic option for the treatment of anxiety and depression in patients seeking mental health support from the MHAP in Nova Scotia.

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Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic condition characterized by time-consuming and distressing obsessions and/or compulsions, often accompanied by avoidance behaviours. It is a highly prevalent and incident disorder that results in considerable disability and quality of life reduction.

Current pharmacological treatments are hindered by their delayed onset and the limited evidence on how to approach first and second line treatment-resistant patients.

Recent research showcased the involvement of glutamatergic pathways in the pathophysiology of OCD prompting research into the potential therapeutic use of ketamine, which binds to the N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor and acts as a non-competitive antagonist of glutamate.

The aim of this study is to conduct a literature review on the use of ketamine and its enantiomers as a treatment for OCD and report a clinical case involving an OCD patient who experienced significant improvement following ketamine use.

A search was performed on PubMed using a combination of keywords and Medical Subject Headings terms, including “Ketamine”, “Esketamine” and “Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder”. Only studies that involved patients with OCD aged ≥18 years who had received ketamine or its enantiomers as an intervention and that reported treatment response using a validated scale were included.

Nine studies were included, 4 case reports, 3 open-label trials and 2 randomized controlled trials, totalling 71 patients. Ketamine was administered intravenously in 7 studies and intranasally in the remaining 2. The results were heterogeneous, with some studies reporting no effect on obsessive-compulsive (OC) symptoms and others demonstrating significant and rapid improvement, albeit some only transitorily.

We present the case of a 42-year-old man who experienced OC symptoms since the age of 20 but was only formally diagnosed with OCD 3 years ago. During his first consultation, the patient described obsessive thoughts related to contamination and dirtiness, accompanied by handwashing rituals and avoidance behaviours (e.g., avoiding touching handles and switches). His Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) score was 29. Escitalopram was initiated with a progressive dose titration, resulting in partial improvement (Y-BOCS 23). In a follow-up appointment, the patient disclosed that he had purchased and self-administered a single intravenous dose of 2g of ketamine 2 months earlier for recreational use. This led to an immediate and significant improvement of his OC symptoms. Subsequent re-evaluation 4 months later confirmed that he remained asymptomatic (Y-BOCS 2).

Ketamine may be a therapeutic alternative for OCD patients who are treatment resistant due to its rapid anti-obsessional effect. Further studies with improved designs and larger sample sizes are warranted to better assess the efficacy of ketamine in OCD treatment.

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Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a psychiatric intervention that has proven effectiveness and safety in various psychiatric conditions, such as major depressive disorder, prolonged or severe manic episodes and catatonia. Despite positive scientific evidence, ECT was always seen as controversial by patients, caregivers, and even some psychiatrists, which lead to a decrease in its use over the years.

To investigate the way young psychiatrists view the place of ECT in modern psychiatry by assessing their knowledge, attitude and access to training opportunities in ECT.

An anonymous survey was disseminated online among early career psychiatrists and psychiatric trainees. The questionnaire consisted of 36 multiple-choice and Likert scale questions.

Most of our respondents consider ECT both an effective and a safe treatment option and would recommend ECT to their patients when indicated. Early career psychiatrists who had access to ECT training are more knowledgeable about the indications, precautions and side effects of this method, but more than half of the participants mentioned ECT training was unavailable during their residency programme. Almost all respondents stated that they are interested in enhancing their theoretical and practical competencies in ECT.

Early career psychiatrists have a positive attitude towards ECT but express the need of targeted education aimed at improving levels of knowledge about ECT.

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