Persistent Work Limitations in Long COVID: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Employed US Respondents to the 2022 National Health and Wellness Survey

Objectives: Many Americans experience continued symptoms after SARS-CoV-2 infection. In addition to people who leave the workforce after experiencing COVID, those who remain employed may experience loss of productivity from short-term absences (absenteeism) and reduced productivity while working (presenteeism). We examined reported losses of work productivity among adults who reported physician-identified Long COVID. Method(s): We conducted a retrospective, cross-sectional analysis of data from National Health and Wellness Survey (May-Aug 2022) respondents. We included employed adults who reported having experienced COVID in the past (no date specified), said their physician identified them as having Long COVID or COVID syndrome, and reported symptoms at the time of survey. Respondents were stratified by their magnitude of activity limitations reported on the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment questionnaire;we describe responses for the lowest (LT) and highest tertiles (HT). Work productivity (absenteeism, presenteeism, overall work limitations from either absenteeism or presenteeism), and mental health (anxiety via General Anxiety Disorder-7 questionnaire, depression via Patient Health Questionnaire-9), were compared across tertiles. Result(s): Among 1036 Long COVID respondents meeting inclusion criteria, presenteeism ranged from 24.2% of LT respondents (n=291) to 92.8% of HT respondents (n=304), and absenteeism ranged from 12.7% (LT respondents) to 47.3% (HT respondents). Almost all (99.7%) HT respondents reported their overall work productivity was reduced by 50% or more while 26.7% of LT respondents reported the same. The prevalence of moderate-to-severe depression (92.4% vs. 37.8%) and moderate-to-severe anxiety (84.2% vs. 26.1%) was higher among HT relative to LT (all p<.001). Conclusion(s): Adults with Long COVID exhibit substantial heterogeneity in activity limitations;however, work limitations were substantial in all groups. Our results suggest significant economic impacts of Long COVID through lower productivity among those who remain employed. Further work with a comparison group is important to understand Long COVID-related work impairments, limitations, and disability.Copyright © 2023

Association Between COVID-19 Pandemic and Serious Mental Illness: Systematic Review within Salutogenesis Model for Public Health Management

Background: The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the constant transformation of the SARS-COV-2 virus form, exposure to substantial psychosocial stress, environmental change, and isolation have led to the inference that the overall population's mental health could be affected, resulting in an increase in cases of psychosis. Objective(s): We initiated a systematic review to determine the impact of the SARS-COV-2 virus and its long-term effects-in both symptomatic and asymptomatic cases-on people with or without psychosis. We envisioned that this would give us an insight into effective clinical intervention methods for patients with psychosis during and after the pandemic. Method(s): We selected fifteen papers that met our inclusion criteria, i.e., those that considered participants with or without psychiatric illness and exposed to SARS-COV-2 infection, for this review and were retrieved via Google, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, PubMed, and PsychINFO Database. Key Gap: There is a dearth of research in understanding how COVID-19 affects people with or without a prior personal history of psychosis. Result(s): The systematic review summary provides insight into the state of knowledge. Insights from the systematic review have also been reviewed from the salutogenesis model's perspec-tive. There is moderate evidence of new-onset psychosis during the COVID-19 pandemic in which some antipsychotics treated the psychotic symptoms of patients while treating for COVID-19. Suggestions and recommendations are made for preventive and promotive public health strategies. Conclusion(s): The Salutogenesis model and Positive Psychology Interventions (PPI) provide another preventive and promotive public health management approach.Copyright © 2023 Bentham Science Publishers.

Mental health status of military healthcare workers in shelter hospitals in Shanghai during the epidemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 omicron variant and its influencing factors.

Objective To investigate the mental health status of military healthcare workers in shelter hospitals in Shanghai during the epidemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 omicron variant and its influencing factors. Methods A total of 540 military healthcare workers in shelter hospitals in Shanghai were investigated with patient health questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), generalized anxiety disorder-7 (GAD-7) and Athens insomnia scale (AIS) to explore their mental health status, and logistic regression was used to analyze the influencing factors. Results A total of 536 valid questionnaires were collected, with an effective rate of 99.3% (536/540). The incidence of depression, anxiety and insomnia among military healthcare workers in shelter hospitals in Shanghai was 45.5% (244/536), 26.1% (140/536) and 59.5% (319/536), respectively. Logistic regression analysis showed that whether people resided in Shanghai, the proportion of negative information in daily browsing information and diet status in shelter hospitals were the influencing factors of depression, anxiety and insomnia (all P<0.05);age and confidence in the future of Shanghai were the influencing factors of depression and insomnia (all P<0.05);and the time spent daily on epidemic-related information was an influencing factor of insomnia (P=0.021). Conclusion The incidence of depressive, anxiety and insomnia among military healthcare workers in shelter hospitals in Shanghai is high during the epidemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 omicron variant. Psychological consequences of the epidemic should be monitored regularly and continuously to promote the mental health of military healthcare workers.Copyright © 2022, Second Military Medical University Press. All rights reserved.

Anxiety among hospitalized COVID-19 patients: a case-control study from a tertiary teaching hospital in Malaysia.

Introduction: Anxiety has been increasingly recognized as part of the psychosocial health issues in COVID-19 patients. However, the impact of this topic may be underestimated in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of and risk factors of anxiety in COVID-19 patients compared to controls in a local tertiary teaching hospital in Malaysia. Methods: In this case-control study, we analyzed data on adult patients aged 18 years and above hospitalized for COVID-19 infection with matched hospitalized controls. The demographic, clinical data and anxiety measures using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 questionnaire were analyzed using univariate and multivariate analysis. Results: 86.6% in the COVID-19 group had anxiety, significantly higher than 13.4% in the control group (p = 0.001). The COVID-19 group was significantly associated with the GAD-7 severity (p = 0.001). The number of COVID-19 patients in the mild, moderate, and severe anxiety groups was 48 (84.2%), 37 (86%), and 18 (94.7%), respectively. Multiple logistic regression showed significant predictors for anxiety, including COVID-19 diagnosis and neurological symptoms. Anxiety was found 36.92 times higher in the patients with COVID-19 compared to those without COVID-19 (OR 36.92;95% CI 17.09, 79.78, p = 0.001). Patients with neurological symptoms were at risk of having anxiety (OR 2.94; 95% CI 1.03, 8.41, p = 0.044). Discussion: COVID-19 patients experience a significant disruption in psychosocial functioning due to hospitalization. The burden of anxiety is notably high, compounded by a diagnosis of COVID-19 itself and neurological symptomatology. Early psychiatric referrals are warranted for patients at risk of developing anxiety symptoms.

Mental health status of military healthcare workers in shelter hospitals in Shanghai during the epidemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 omicron variant and its influencing factors

Objective To investigate the mental health status of military healthcare workers in shelter hospitals in Shanghai during the epidemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 omicron variant and its influencing factors. Methods A total of 540 military healthcare workers in shelter hospitals in Shanghai were investigated with patient health questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), generalized anxiety disorder-7 (GAD-7) and Athens insomnia scale (AIS) to explore their mental health status, and logistic regression was used to analyze the influencing factors. Results A total of 536 valid questionnaires were collected, with an effective rate of 99.3% (536/540). The incidence of depression, anxiety and insomnia among military healthcare workers in shelter hospitals in Shanghai was 45.5% (244/536), 26.1% (140/536) and 59.5% (319/536), respectively. Logistic regression analysis showed that whether people resided in Shanghai, the proportion of negative information in daily browsing information and diet status in shelter hospitals were the influencing factors of depression, anxiety and insomnia (all P<0.05);age and confidence in the future of Shanghai were the influencing factors of depression and insomnia (all P<0.05);and the time spent daily on epidemic-related information was an influencing factor of insomnia (P=0.021). Conclusion The incidence of depressive, anxiety and insomnia among military healthcare workers in shelter hospitals in Shanghai is high during the epidemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 omicron variant. Psychological consequences of the epidemic should be monitored regularly and continuously to promote the mental health of military healthcare workers.Copyright © 2022, Second Military Medical University Press. All rights reserved.

Prevalence and related factors of depression, anxiety, and insomnia among medical staff during COVID-19 pandemic

[Background] The epidemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) seriously affects the psychological status of medical staff who directly face the risk of the disease. [Objective] This study investigates the prevalence and related factors of depression, anxiety, and insomnia among medical staff during the COVID-19 pandemic. [Methods] From February 13 to March 1, 2020, a network questionnaire survey was conducted among 482 medical staff selected by convenience sampling. A self-designed questionnaire was used to investigate the basic demographic information and COVID-19-related questions. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), and Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) were used to estimate the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and insomnia among the medical staff. Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis was performed with PHQ-9 score, GAD-7 score, and ISI score as dependent variables. Multivariate logistic regression analysis (forward-conditional method) on depression, anxiety, and insomnia as dependent variables was performed with basic demographic information and COVID-19-related questions as independent variables. [Results] Among the surveyed medical staff, the prevalence rates of depression, anxiety, and insomnia were 14.3%, 11.2%, and 23.2%, respectively. There were no significant differences in the prevalence rates among different age, gender, local risk level, and occupation groups and those aiding Hubei Province or not. The medical staff who directly contacted fever or diagnosed patients had more serious depression (b=1.73, 95%CI: 0.79-2.66) and insomnia (b=2.43, 95%CI: 1.48-3.39) and a higher risk of insomnia (OR=1.89, 95%CI: 1.21-2.96). The medical staff whose current protective measures cannot prevent infection had more serious depression (b=1.72, 95% CI: 0.65-2.80), anxiety (b=1.75, 95% CI: 0.76-2.75), and insomnia (b=1.73, 95% CI: 0.63-2.82), and had a higher risk of depression (OR=1.97, 95% CI: 1.11-3.49), anxiety (OR=3.00, 95%CI: 1.64-5.46), and insomnia (OR=1.79, 95%CI: 1.08-2.96). [Conclusion] During the COVID-19 epidemic, the risks of depression, anxiety, and insomnia among selected medical staff are increased compared with the non-epidemic period. Occupational exposure to high-risk groups and protective measures would significantly affect mental health of medical staff.Copyright © 2021, Shanghai Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention. All rights reserved.

The effect of consecutive COVID-19 waves on the mental wellbeing of ICU nursing staff

Introduction: Working on an ICU ward is considered a physical as well as mentally challenging profession which has already been objectified by multiple studies in the past. When the Covid-19 pandemic started, medical staff were suddenly exposed to even greater levels of stress not only at work but also due to social restrictions. Our primary aim of this cross-sectional study is to observe the evolution in time of the impact on mental health during as well as after the pandemic. Method(s): In this cross-sectional study the mental health of our ICU nursing staff (n = 18) was monitored over a period of 26 months by using validate questionnaires for anxiety, depression, insomnia and post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD) such as the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) score, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Insomnia severity index (ISI) and the revised version of the Impact of Event Severity scale (IES-r). In total it entailed 4 surveys during the pandemic and one follow up survey 6 months after. Result(s): Regarding GAD7 and ISI, ICU nurses did not score significantly at the beginning nor the end of this study. IES scores started off at 18 which is just below significant but 35% had a score associated with developing PTSD. These scores remained relatively high throughout the pandemic but saw a mean downward trend at the end (p = 0.338). Mean PHQ-9 scores were initially at the level of minimal depression and rose to be classified as mild depression at the end of the pandemic. In the follow-up survey scores dropped back to minimal depression. In time, the PHQ-9 test was not withheld as significant (p = 0.298). Conclusion(s): It is evident that the results presented in our study show that ICU nurses are prone to developing mental health problems during times of increased workload and stress and in particular the development of PTSD remained high in some subjects. Although there was a slight decrease in our follow-up survey, we believe mental health should be closely followed upon in the future.

The Association between Smartphone Addiction, Depression and Anxiety among Medical Students in Jordan

Introduction: Awareness of psychological disorders such as smartphone addiction, anxiety, and depression is a trending research area in the scientific community that has further escalated with the impact of COVID-19. In this regard, young adults and medical students are already considered to be under a high level of stress academically and culturally. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between depression, anxiety, and smartphone addiction among medical students in Jordan. Method(s): A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online structured questionnaire. The survey was completed by 164 male and female medical students stratified by years one to three in the basic medical sciences. The survey consisted of items from the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version (SAS-SV), in addition to two questions concerning the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on smartphone addiction. Result(s): Among the students who participated, the mean age was 18.9, with almost half (47.2%) being first-year students. The results showed no significant difference in stress, anxiety or cell phone addiction based on gender or academic year. The logistic regression model was not statistically significant regarding the covariates, except for GAD, which had an OR=1.15 (CI: 1.06 -1.25). Furthermore, SAS-SV was positively correlated with GAD-7 and PHQ-9 scores (r=0.42, r=0.2, p< 0.000, p=0.029, respectively). Conclusion(s): The results of the study showed a statistically significant positive correlation between smartphone addiction, depression, and anxiety. These variables were not statistically different among medical students in terms of gender and academic year.Copyright © 2023 DSR Publishers / The University of Jordan. All Rights Reserved.

Effect of COVID-19-Induced Changes on Job Insecurity, Presenteeism, and Turnover Intention in the Workplace-An Investigation of Generalized Anxiety Disorder among Hotel Employees Using the GAD-7 Scale

In this study, we investigated COVID-19 ' s (coronavirus disease 2019's) effect on job insecurity, presenteeism, and turnover intention in hotel environments by measuring hotel staffs' generalized anxiety disorder (GAD-7) levels. We surveyed 351 hotel employees from the office, facilities, food and beverage, and cooking departments. Convenience sampling was performed from December 2021 to March 2022. Job insecurity was measured with seven items (easily annoyed, tension, anxiety, nervousness, a lot of worry, fear, uncontrollable worry, restlessness, and discomfort) and demonstrated a significantly positive effect on presenteeism and turnover intention in the high GAD-7 group compared with the low GAD-7 group. Our study contributes academic value to research on GAD-7 in the hotel industry. In addition, it provides a theoretical basis for the relationship between job insecurity and hotel employees' psychological response to the pandemic. Based on the findings, we recommend periodically implementing the GAD-7 scale for employee assessments. Consequently, hotel companies can create guidelines for human resource management post-COVID-19.

Assessment of Stress, Anxiety, and Depression Levels Among COVID-19 Positive Patients Admitted in Rural Tertiary Care Hospital

Objective: The aim of the present study was to investigate the psychiatric distress, including stress, anxiety, and depression levels, among COVID-19 positive patients who were admitted between 01 July 2020 to 31 August 2020 to the COVID-19 isolation ward of the Uttar Pradesh University of Medical Sciences, Saifai, Etawah India. Participants included 100 patients, with 55 males and 45 females. The majority of admitted patients (81%) were illiterate. Out of 100 patients, 83 were married, 16 were unmarried, and only 1 was a widow. Method(s): Levels of anxiety, depression, and stress level were noted in admitted patients using Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) depression assessment, and Perceived Stress Scale 4 (PSS-4) assessment techniques, respectively. Result(s): Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) depression assessment results showed minimal, mild, and moderate depression in 9, 25, and 66 patients, respectively, with a 10.6 median score of PHQ-9. Mild, moderate, and severe anxiety (GAD-7 score) was present in 22, 28, and 50 of the patients surveyed. The mean Perceived Stress Scale 4 (PSS-4) was also analyzed, and it reported 6.1 values. The results of the study demonstrated that the patients had a high label of psychiatric distress, but still, admitted patients believe that they will come out from this pandemic condition. Conclusion(s): Although patients claimed psychiatric distress and mental health illness, they still denied the requirement of any mental health professionals to minimize stress levels and were satisfied with the medical facilities available in a hospital located in a rural area.Copyright © 2022 Bentham Science Publishers.

The Psychological Impacts of COVID-19 Pandemics on Pregnant Women in Hong Kong-Results of a Web-Based Cross-Sectional Survey

Background: We sought to assess the anxiety and depression scores of pregnant women in Hong Kong during the COVID-19 pandemic and to evaluate the impact of demographic, economic and social factors on these scores. Method(s): This was part of an ongoing worldwide cross-sectional study conducted from 22 May 2020 to 28 February 2021. Data were collected through an anonymous web-based survey. The severity of depression and anxiety was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) score and the General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) score, respectively. Result(s): A total of 361 participants completed both the GAD-7 and PHQ-9 questionnaires. Participants with psychiatric illness reported a significant higher median GAD-7 score (6.00, interquartile range [IQR] 3.00-7.75 vs. 2.00, IQR 0.00-6.00, p = 0.001), while the median PHQ-9 score was also higher but was not statistically significant (6.50, IQR 3.00-11.00 vs. 5.00, IQR 3.00-8.00, p = 0.066). A higher proportion of participants with psychiatric illness reported moderate-severe depression and anxiety (35.7% vs. 16.5%, p = 0.002, 17.8% vs. 3.6%, p < 0.001 respectively). Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that financial difficulty, in education and pregnancy by in-vitro fertilization were associated with a higher PHQ-9 score in pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic, while underlying psychiatric illness was associated with a higher GAD-7 score. Support from a partner was demonstrated to be associated with a reduced level of depression and anxiety in pregnancy. Conclusion(s): Pregnant women with underlying psychiatric illness were more vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemics than the non-psychiatric counterparts. Partner support is important for alleviating depression and anxiety in pregnancy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Clinical Trial Registration: The study was registered at http://www.clinicaltrials.gov, registration number NCT04377412.Copyright © 2023 The Author(s).

Stress, Anxiety, and Growth in Nurses During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The global pandemic of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) declared in March 2020 has created unprecedented challenges for healthcare professionals and organizations. A significant impact has been physical and psychological stress on nurses working in acute care environments. Stress-related growth may occur concurrently with the experience of negative psychological responses as another facet of coping and adjustment to the stressful event. The primary aim of this study was to describe the degree to which nurses reported stress, anxiety, and stress-related growth during the COVID-19 pandemic. This article discusses the study methods, which included a cross-sectional design with an online survey sent to nurses in a hospital system. Results demonstrated that, of the 1,009 participants in the final analysis, almost 70% reported anxiety symptoms, with 38% having scores at the moderate or severe level. Growth scores were low. Our discussion considers cultural implications of the findings and implications for practice that underscore the need for proactive interventions to mitigate the psychological burden of the pandemic on nurses and the need to implement routine screening of nurses for anxiety. © 2023.

Effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health, daily and occupational activities among health professionals in Colombia: A cross-sectional study

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has placed an unprecedented physical and mental burden on healthcare workers who are frequently at high risk of infection, particularly in low-income countries. Particularly, allergists who are frequently exposed to the airway and respiratory diseases. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of anxiety, depression, and stress, as well as changes in daily and occupational activities among healthcare professionals due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Colombia. Method(s): An observational, cross-sectional study was conducted between February and June 2021. The survey incorporated validated mental health tools such as the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and the Perceived Stress Scale-10. Multivariable ordinal logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the factors associated with severe mental health outcomes. Result(s): Among 1345 healthcare workers the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and stress were 75.61%, 59.18%, and 53.09%, respectively. Anxiety (OR:1.44;95%CI:1.16-1.8), depression (OR:1.74;95%CI:1.27-2.37), and stress (OR:1.51;95%CI:1.18-1.94) were more frequent in women, and individuals who expressed fear of a negative outcome (death, sequelae) (OR:2.25;95%CI:1.60-3.25), (OR:1.49;95%CI:1.03-2.16) and (OR:2.36;95%CI:1.69-3.29) respectively. Allergists were morelikely to report symptoms of anxiety (76.47%), depression(43.14%), and stress (49.02%). Age was negatively associated with anxiety (OR:0.98;95%CI:0.98-0.99), stress (OR:0.98;95%CI:0.97-0.99), and depression (OR:0.97;95% CI:0.96-0.98). Reduction in consultations and surgeries (OR:1.01;95%CI:1.0-1.01) was positively associated with anxiety. Due to the pandemic, most specialists expected to incorporate drastic long-term (>1 year) changes in their clinical setting and daily activities. Conclusion(s): The prevalence of anxiety, depression, and stress is higher among Colombian healthcare workers compared to previous reports. Further research regarding these psychological outcomes is needed to achieve early mental health intervention strategies.

Depression and Anxiety in Medical Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Medical students are prone to anxiety and depression, largely due to the nature of their coursework. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many medical students were required to study from home without being involved in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to investigate depression and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), plus possible risk factors in medical students around the world during the pandemic. A primary search was conducted using PubMed, limited to the period 2020-2021. A second search was conducted to acquire studies published before the pandemic, aiming to have a baseline prevalence value for these disorders in medical students. During the pandemic, the prevalence of depression in the USA (31.7%, 12.5%, and 10.8% for mild, moderate, and severe depression, respectively) was higher than the reported prevalence in Pakistan, Nepal, and Iran, although the four countries used different psychiatric instruments, making comparison difficult (9-item Patient Health Questionnaire, Self-rating Depression Scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Depression [HADS-D], and Beck Depression Inventory [BDI-II). The prevalence of GAD in the USA was also higher (35.3%, 19.5%, and 11.1%, for mild, moderate, and severe GAD) than the prevalence in China (21.3%, 2.7%, and 0.9%, for mild, moderate, and severe anxiety), and the overall prevalence in Brazil, (46.2%), using the same instrument (GAD-7). The prevalence of GAD in the USA was also higher than the prevalence in Nepal, Pakistan, and Iran, although the researchers used a different psychiatric instrument (HADS-A, Self-rating Anxiety Scale, and Beck Anxiety Inventory instruments, respectively). Before the pandemic, the reported prevalence of depression in the USA was lower (11.6%, 9.0%, and 3.0% for mild, moderate, and severe depression), than in Pakistan (31.0%, 13.6%, and 4.8%), using the BDI instrument. In Nepal, the prevalence of depression (5.2%) was higher than in Portugal (2.3%), ascertained with the HADS-D instrument. The prevalence in Egypt (65% using Depression Anxiety Stress Scale DASS-21]) and India (14.7%, 19%, and 17.5% mild, moderate, and severe depression, using DASS 42) were the highest prevalence values reported before the pandemic. For anxiety, the prevalence of overall GAD in Nepal (16.2%) was comparable to the one reported in Portugal (14.2%), both identified with the HADS-A instrument. The prevalence of GAD reported in India and in Egypt were the highest values, determined with the DASS 42 and DASS 21, respectively. Studies have reported that general social isolation and loneliness are risk factors contributing factors toward depression. Other risk factors identified with depression and/or anxiety disorders were being female, having a lower GPA, lower COVID-19 awareness, and having more experience with COVID symptoms. High prevalence of depression and GAD was identified in medical students in various countries. It is imperative that during any crisis such as the one experienced in the present COVID-19 pandemic, vulnerable populations to mental health disorders, such as medical students, are identified and supported. Further research needs to be done to explore other possible factors, such as living conditions, marital status, social-cultural influences, financial issues, and their relationship to depression and anxiety in this population, to further understand the best interventions to support this population.Copyright ©2022 Published by Scientific Scholar on behalf of Global Journal of Medical, Pharmaceutical, and Biomedical Update.

Psychological effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare professionals

Aim: In this study, we aimed to investigate anxiety, depression, and sleep problems in healthcare professionals during the pandemic. Material(s) and Method(s): This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted with the staff of Diyarbakir Gazi Yasargil Training and Research Hospital. A total of 170 people were reached for the research. The data collected by the on-line survey method consisted of demographic questions, questions about behavior change due to COVID-19, Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). Result(s): It was found that 72.9% of the healthcare professionals had anxiety, 83.5% had depression, and 87.1% had sleep problems. The total score of the GAD-7 scale was found to be significantly higher in those who used personal protective equipment (p=0.021) and those who received infection training (p<0.001). The PHQ-9 scale total score was higher in those 35 years of age and older (p=0.019) and college graduates (p=0.023). The total score of the insomnia severity scale (ISI) was significantly higher in individuals aged 35 years and older (p=0.040), in college graduates (p=0.049), and single/divorced (p=0.009). A significant difference was found between gender, occupation, smoking, fear of infection, burnout status, and total scores on all three scales (p<0.05). Discussion(s): Healthcare professionals were found to have high levels of anxiety, depression, and sleep problems. Anxiety, depression, and insomnia problems were higher in women, health technicians, smokers, those with fear of infection, and those with burnout.Copyright © 2022, Derman Medical Publishing. All rights reserved.

Heart rate variability in post-COVID-19 patients with different anxiety levels

Introduction: More than 12% of COVID-19 hospitalized patients develop Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) after discharged. High frequency band percentage of heart rate variability (hfHRV) is a reliable indicator of efficient functional coupling between autonomic branches across high-demanding adaptive situations. Objective(s): To compare hfHRV among post-hospitalized COVID-19 survivors by level of GAD. Method(s): We conducted an observational study with 211 post-COVID-19 participants (63.7% males;47.6y +/-14.3), 3 months after discharged. We registered their hfHRV with a computerized biofeedback equipment throughout four conditions: open-eyes (C1);closed-eyes (C2);closed-eyes+natural-relaxation (C3);and closed-eyes+deep-breathing (C4) (2.5 minutes per condition). Participants were classified into 3 categories using General Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7): low anxiety (n=174, 67.5%, 47.2 yo +/-13.4;G1);moderate anxiety (n=24, 66.5%, 47.3 yo +/-15.3;G2) and severe anxiety (n=13, 60.5%, 46.1 yo +/-9;G3). Statistical analysis were performed with SPSS v28. Result(s): hfHRV percentage is higher at C3 in G1 (G1: 29.5 +/-21.1, G2: 21.1 +/-17.1, G3: 20.0 +/-20.4;p = 0.01). G3 display a 30% decrease in hfHRV during this condition in contrast with G1 (p = 0.006). Percentage of hfHRV in G1 (C1: 31 +/-22.6, C2: 29.2 +/-23.6, C4: 24.3 +/-20.7), and G3 (C1: 29.7 +/-22.8;C2: 27.9 +/-17.6;C4: 20 +/-20) didn't show any significant differences. Conclusion(s): C3 involve an adaptive challenge that demands an effective sympathetic-parasympathetic regulation. An increase in hfHRV during C3 in G1, indicates that the group with low anxiety exhibit a more effective psychophysiological adaptive feature than G2 and G3: a potential protective factor from GAD.

Depressive and anxious symptomatology in a Lebanese sample during the COVID-19 outbreak

This study explores the correlates of depressive and anxious symptomatology in a Lebanese sample during the COVID-19 outbreak. A convenience sample of 191 respondents participated in a cross-sectional survey and completed measures of fear of COVID-19, rumination about COVID-19, job insecurity, political trust, depression, and generalized anxiety. Results indicated that political trust was associated with greater wellbeing (manifested as decreased job insecurity, fear of COVID-19, depression, and anxiety). Respondents who reported no compliance with self-isolation measures reported less rumination about COVID-19 and less fear of COVID-19 than those who did. Multiple regression analyses showed that fear of, and rumination about, COVID-19 predicted depressive and anxious symptomatology while political trust was protective against depressive symptomatology only. This study provides a novel perspective on mental health in Lebanon, by focusing on its social and psychological predictors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to political and economic instability in Lebanon, the COVID-19 crisis may have deleterious effects on mental health in the Lebanese population. Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy is an evidence-based and cost-effective approach to enhancing mental health during the pandemic and may be beneficial in the Lebanese context.Copyright © 2021 The Author(s). Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.

Impact of Covid-19 on mental health of healthcare professionals working in Covid-19 designated clinical areas in SDMCMSH-Dharwad

INTRODUCTION Healthcare workers (HCWs), at the heart of the unparalleled crisis of COVID-19, face challenges treating patients with COVID-19 . The psychological burden and overall wellness of HCWs has received heightened awareness showing high rates of burnout, psychological stress, and suicide. HCWs experience emotional exhaustion, which may lead to medical errors, lack of empathy in treating patients, lower productivity, and higher turnover rates. AIM To determine the impact of COVID-19 on HCWs including (Consultants, Postgraduate students-both medical and naturopathy, Interns and Nursing staff) and to identify the potential risk factors . METHOD A web based cross-sectional study done in SDM, Dharwad was done among 50 participants to identify the main mental health outcomes that include Depression, Anxiety, Insomnia and Distress using Patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9), Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD-7) scale , Insomnia severity index and The impact of event scale-revised. RESULT Out of 50 participants , 38(76%) were in age group of 26-30 years,31 (62%) were females and 28(56%) were Post graduates,10 (20%) Interns and 10(24%) Nursing staff. This study found that mod-severe GAD was seen in 6 % participants,2 % had high PTSD & mod-severe Depression was seen in 3 (6%) & 1(2%) had mod Insomnia CONCLUSION It is thus very important to assess the prevalence of psychological manifestations in the HCWs and help them to adequately cope with stressors to function adequately.

A study on level of mental health and influencing factors of medical staff in the makeshift hospital during COVID-19 in Shanghai.

Objective To analyze the mental health status of medical staff in the Fourth Branch of National Convention and Exhibition Center Makeshift Hospital during the COVID-19 epidemic in Shanghai to lay a theoretical foundation for the mental health and psychological intervention of medical staff in COVID-19 and other public health emergencies. Methods An online questionnaire survey was conducted with the generalized anxiety disorder scale (GAD-7), patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9), and Athens insomnia scale (AIS) before medical staff entering the makeshift hospital and one month later. Results The detection rates of anxiety, depression and insomnia were 18.4%, 22.1% and 27.0% respectively before entering the makeshift hospital, and 28.8%, 59.3% and 64.2% respectively during the follow-up period one month later. The GAD-7, PHQ-9 and AIS scores of medical staff after working in the makeshift hospital for one month increased significantly compared with those at the baseline period (P<0.01). Female and previous history of using sedative and hypnotic drugs were risk factors for increased depression level among medical staff in the makeshift hospital. Conclusions The anxiety, depression and insomnia levels of the medical staff in Shanghai increased after working in the makeshift hospital for one month. It is of great significance for the front-line support work to identify the medical staff with serious psychological problems and carry out psychological intervention in the early stage.Copyright © 2022 Authors. All rights reserved.

Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on health-promoting lifestyle behaviors: A cross-sectional study

Objective: To explore health-improving behaviors during COVID-19 pandemic and to reveal the impact of the risk perception of COVID-19 on these behaviors. Method(s): We recruited a total of 510 participants for this cross-sectional study. The data were collected online using a questionnaire booklet covering a form inquiring about the participants' demographic, physical, and mental characteristics, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 Scale, and the COVID-19 Perceived Risk Scale. Result(s): The mean age of the participants was (28.7+/-10.1) years, and 76.1% were females. Of the participants, 31.8% were overweight and obese. While 35.1% experienced negative alterations in their dietary patterns, 23.9% reported positive changes to their diet during the pandemic. Besides, 47.8% reported their sleep to be negatively affected during the pandemic. While the rate of those with extended screen time was 72.5%, it was 44.3% for the participants engaging in regular exercise. More than one-Third of the participants (35.9%) had high and severe anxiety. We also found increased risk perception of COVID-19 among females, obese, those with disturbed eating and sleep quality, healthcare workers, and those with severe anxiety. Conclusion(s): Overall, the pandemic has appeared to have brought both positive and negative impacts on maintaining and improving eating, sleep, physical activity, and mental health.Copyright © 2023 Authors. All rights reserved.