Publication:

Psychological impact of COVID-19 pandemic and mental health problems of Indian medical health workers: a cross sectional study

Background The COVID-19 pandemic had burdened tremendously health, economic and social status of all. Populations across globe and MHW are also affected physically, economically and mentally too. The primary aim of this study was to assess the psychiatric and mental health issues.

Methods A face-to-face interview and cross-sectional study were carried out in hospitals associated to Dr. SNMC Jodhpur from April 2020 to July 2021. Evaluation and assessment of insomnia, anxiety and depression was done using insomnia severity scale (ISI); generalized anxiety disorder (GAD-7) and depression on patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9) scale. A total number of 218 persons participated.

Results Compared with non-medical health workers (n=82); medical health workers (n=136) had higher score for insomnia (8.26±7.28 verses 6.35±5.29; p=0.039); generalized anxiety (8.26±6.25 verses 6.32±4.76; p=0.016) and depression (8.45±5.96 verses 6.18±4.72; p=0.035). Similarly higher prevalence rate in medical health workers was found for insomnia (23.3% versus 14.6%); generalized anxiety 31% versus 19%) and depression (14.7% versus 3.66%). These psychiatric symptoms were found in higher intensity (moderate to severe type) in all groups.

Conclusions During COVID-19 pandemic medical health workers are exposed to severe type of insomnia, generalized anxiety and depression. It requires more attention and recovery programs to combat the symptoms.