The intersection of mpox outbreak and mental health: a bibliometric analysis of current research trends

Abstract

Background and objectives

The ongoing mpox outbreaks have garnered significant attention due to their public health implications, particularly the potential mental health impacts. Despite the growing concern, there has been limited exploration of the intersection between mpox and mental health within the research literature. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis to examine global research trends, regional distribution, and thematic focus areas related to mpox's psychological and psychiatric implications.

Methods

We conducted a bibliometric analysis using Scopus and the Web of Science database. The analysis was carried out using the R-bibliometrics package and involved identifying literature on mpox and mental health, focusing on global research trends, regional distribution, and thematic areas of study. The analysis included 416 documents obtained from 295 sources from January 1, 2014 to August 27, 2024.

Results

Our analysis revealed a growing but unevenly distributed literature on mpox and mental health. Most studies concentrated on the relationship between mpox and conditions such as depression and anxiety, while other psychiatric outcomes remain underexplored. The geographic distribution of research was also uneven, with regions like Europe and the Americas receiving more focus than others.

Conclusions

The study highlights the need for more targeted research on the mental health sequelae of mpox, particularly for vulnerable populations and regions that are currently underrepresented in the literature. Future research should include longitudinal studies to assess the long-term effects of mpox on mental health and the development of robust methodologies to establish causality. Integrating mental health considerations into public health responses to mpox outbreaks is crucial, with significant implications for research, policy, and clinical practice.