This study was aimed to explore the level of psychological distress and posttraumatic stress among female burn survivors in Pakistan. It was also intended to study the kind of social support available to these burn survivors in a society where women right violation is common. The sample consisted of 35 female burn victims selected from two hospitals. General Health Questionnaire, posttraumatic stress disorder Checklist-Specific, and Social Support Scale were used to measure study variables in addition to a short open-ended questionnaire to identify coping strategies of these burn survivors. Consistent with the hypothesis, results found a high level of psychological reaction among female burn survivors. About one-quarter of the sample (23%) presented severe symptoms of psychological distress whereas 20% of the sample reported to experience severe posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. There was a significant inverse relationship between psychological reactions and social support as hypothesized. Majority of female burn victims found to use emotion-focused coping (EFC) mainly including prayers, emotional discourse, and using drugs. The findings of the study would be helpful to plastic surgeons, dermatologists, psychologists, and social workers to understand the patient's psychological reactions, their copying styles, and the role of social support in the rehabilitation program for these survivors.

Purpose This study aims to assess mental health literacy (MHL) in the general population using six case vignettes related to depression, mania, psychosis, conversion disorder (CD), obsessive compulsion disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Design/methodology/approach Each vignette had nine items related to MHL. The sample comprised 4,590 young adults conveniently selected from twin cities in Pakistan. Participants’ responses were converted into percentages and percentiles to find MHL levels. Findings The men had moderate MHL in depression and inadequate MHL in the remaining five illnesses. The women had adequate MHL in depression and moderate MHL in mania, psychosis, OCD and PTSD while inadequate in CD. Comparing item-wise understanding, the participants had an adequate understanding of identifying the illness, who could suffer and whether the illness was treatable. However, they struggled with naming the illness, knowing about it and how to treat and identify the person who can treat it. Research limitations/implications The findings of this study are helpful for mental health professionals, policymakers and individuals who identify the target areas for engagement and improving MHL in the general population. Originality/value This study provides data about MHL related to six mental illnesses, unlike previous studies focusing on a few illnesses. This study recommends awareness sessions, community workshops and engaging social and electronic media for improving MHL and seeking help from relevant health professionals for mental illnesses instead of spiritual healers and witchcraft.

No abstract

Countries all over the world, including Pakistan, are struggling with how to better protect children from the negative impact of the coronavirus physically and psychologically. The sudden enforced social isolation caused by COVID 19 has struck badly the global community's daily activities, especially on preschoolers, it is leaving immense influence. To promote and implement social distancing guidelines, most schools are closed, and switched to home-based or online learning as part of the steps to minimize the spread of the virus. Sudden shift in the learning environment, as well as restricted social experiences and activities contributed in the children’s mental and emotional development in a destructive way during this unusual situation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the psychological impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on preschool children and recognize emotional and behavior changes in them. The perspectives of teachers and parents have also been taken to know about the potential strategies for improving the pre-schoolers ’behavior in order to avoid the negative consequences of this crisis on their future. Keywords: Pre-schoolers, covid19, emotional response, behavioral response.

No abstract