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McEvoy M, Caccaviello G, Crombie A, Skinner T, Begg SJ, Faulkner P, McEvoy A, Masman K, Bamforth L, Parker C, Stanyer E, Collings A, Li X. Health and Wellbeing of Regional and Rural Australian Healthcare Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Baseline Cross-Sectional Findings from the Loddon Mallee Healthcare Worker COVID-19 Study-A Prospective Cohort Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:649. [PMID: 38791863 PMCID: PMC11120829 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21050649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronavirus 19 (COVID-19) has created complex pressures and challenges for healthcare systems worldwide; however, little is known about the impacts COVID-19 has had on regional/rural healthcare workers. The Loddon Mallee Healthcare Worker COVID-19 Study (LMHCWCS) cohort was established to explore and describe the immediate and long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on regional and rural healthcare workers. METHODS Eligible healthcare workers employed within 23 different healthcare organisations located in the Loddon Mallee region of Victoria, Australia, were included. In this cohort study, a total of 1313 participants were recruited from November 2020-May 2021. Symptoms of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and burnout were measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), Impact of Events Scale-6 (IES-6), and Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI), respectively. Resilience and optimism were measured using the Brief Resilience Scale and Life Orientation Test-Revised (LOT-R), respectively. Subjective fear of COVID-19 was measured using the Fear of COVID-19 Scale. RESULTS These cross-sectional baseline findings demonstrate that regional/rural healthcare workers were experiencing moderate/severe depressive symptoms (n = 211, 16.1%), moderate to severe anxiety symptoms (n = 193, 14.7%), and high personal or patient/client burnout with median total scores of 46.4 (IQR = 28.6) and 25.0 (IQR = 29.2), respectively. There was a moderate degree of COVID-19-related fear. However, most participants demonstrated a normal/high degree of resilience (n = 854, 65.0%). Based on self-reporting, 15.4% had a BMI from 18.5 to 24.9 kgm2 and 37.0% have a BMI of 25 kgm2 or over. Overall, 7.3% of participants reported they were current smokers and 20.6% reported alcohol consumption that is considered moderate/high-risk drinking. Only 21.2% of the sample reported consuming four or more serves of vegetables daily and 37.8% reported consuming two or more serves of fruit daily. There were 48.0% the sample who reported having poor sleep quality measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). CONCLUSION Regional/rural healthcare workers in Victoria, Australia, were experiencing a moderate to high degree of psychological distress during the early stages of the pandemic. However, most participants demonstrated a normal/high degree of resilience. Findings will be used to inform policy options to support healthcare workers in responding to future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark McEvoy
- La Trobe Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Bendigo, VIC 3550, Australia;
| | | | - Angela Crombie
- Bendigo Health, Bendigo, VIC 3550, Australia; (A.C.); (P.F.); (K.M.); (L.B.); (C.P.); (E.S.); (A.C.)
| | - Timothy Skinner
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bendigo, VIC 3550, Australia;
| | - Stephen J. Begg
- La Trobe Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Bendigo, VIC 3550, Australia;
| | - Peter Faulkner
- Bendigo Health, Bendigo, VIC 3550, Australia; (A.C.); (P.F.); (K.M.); (L.B.); (C.P.); (E.S.); (A.C.)
| | - Anne McEvoy
- Kyabram District Health Service, Kyabram, VIC 3620, Australia;
| | - Kevin Masman
- Bendigo Health, Bendigo, VIC 3550, Australia; (A.C.); (P.F.); (K.M.); (L.B.); (C.P.); (E.S.); (A.C.)
| | - Laura Bamforth
- Bendigo Health, Bendigo, VIC 3550, Australia; (A.C.); (P.F.); (K.M.); (L.B.); (C.P.); (E.S.); (A.C.)
| | - Carol Parker
- Bendigo Health, Bendigo, VIC 3550, Australia; (A.C.); (P.F.); (K.M.); (L.B.); (C.P.); (E.S.); (A.C.)
| | - Evan Stanyer
- Bendigo Health, Bendigo, VIC 3550, Australia; (A.C.); (P.F.); (K.M.); (L.B.); (C.P.); (E.S.); (A.C.)
| | - Amanda Collings
- Bendigo Health, Bendigo, VIC 3550, Australia; (A.C.); (P.F.); (K.M.); (L.B.); (C.P.); (E.S.); (A.C.)
| | - Xia Li
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3550, Australia;
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Petrou G, Crombie A, Begg S, Skinner T, Faulkner P, McEvoy A, Parker C, Masman K, Bamforth L, Caccaviello G, Stanyer E, McEvoy M. The moderating role of psychological resilience in the relationship between fear of COVID-19 and psychological distress, in a cohort of rural and regional healthcare workers. During major lockdowns in Victoria, Australia 2020-2021. Int J Ment Health Nurs 2024. [PMID: 38590109 DOI: 10.1111/inm.13333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in substantial pressures for healthcare workers across the world. The association between fear of COVID-19 and psychological distress, and the role of psychological resilience have gained research interest. The current study aimed to investigate the cross-sectional association between fear of COVID-19 and psychological distress, in Australian rural/regional healthcare workers and determine whether resilience modifies this association. Most participants were nurses (38.0%), mean age was 44.9 years, and 80.5% were female (N = 1313). An adjusted logistic regression analysis showed that the highest tertile of the Fear of COVID-19 scale was associated with higher odds of moderate to severe symptoms of anxiety (OR = 3.72, 95% CI = 2.27, 6.11; p < 0.001) and depression (OR = 3.48, 95% CI = 2.30, 5.28; p < 0.001). Healthcare workers with high level of fear of COVID-19 and low level of resilience were much more likely to report moderate to severe symptoms of anxiety (OR = 12.27, 95% CI = 6.65-22.65, p < 0.001) and depression (OR = 12.21, 95% CI = 6.93-21.50, p < 0.001) when compared to healthcare workers with low level of fear of COVID-19 and high level of resilience. A cross-sectional design was used and therefore cause and effect between fear of COVID-19 and psychological distress cannot be inferred. Longitudinal research is needed to investigate the possible causal relationship. These findings highlight the potential mental health effects of fear of COVID-19 on HCWs and demonstrate the importance of resilience as a possible moderator of these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Petrou
- La Trobe Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia
| | - Angela Crombie
- Bendigo Health, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia
- Violet Vines Marshman Centre for Rural Health Research, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephen Begg
- La Trobe Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia
- Violet Vines Marshman Centre for Rural Health Research, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia
| | - Timothy Skinner
- Institute of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Anne McEvoy
- Kyabram District Health Service, Kyabram, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Mark McEvoy
- La Trobe Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
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Alharbi TAF, Alqurashi AAB, Mahmud I, Alharbi RJ, Islam SMS, Almustanyir S, Maklad AE, AlSarraj A, Mughaiss LN, Al-Tawfiq JA, Ahmed AA, Barry M, Ghozy S, Alabdan LI, Alif SM, Sultana F, Salehin M, Banik B, Cross W, Rahman MA. COVID-19: Factors Associated with the Psychological Distress, Fear and Resilient Coping Strategies among Community Members in Saudi Arabia. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11081184. [PMID: 37108018 PMCID: PMC10138665 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11081184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: COVID-19 caused the worst international public health crisis, accompanied by major global economic downturns and mass-scale job losses, which impacted the psychosocial wellbeing of the worldwide population, including Saudi Arabia. Evidence of the high-risk groups impacted by the pandemic has been non-existent in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, this study examined factors associated with psychosocial distress, fear of COVID-19 and coping strategies among the general population in Saudi Arabia. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in healthcare and community settings in the Saudi Arabia using an anonymous online questionnaire. The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K-10), Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) and Brief Resilient Coping Scale (BRCS) were used to assess psychological distress, fear and coping strategies, respectively. Multivariate logistic regressions were used, and an Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs) was reported. (3) Results: Among 803 participants, 70% (n = 556) were females, and the median age was 27 years; 35% (n = 278) were frontline or essential service workers; and 24% (n = 195) reported comorbid conditions including mental health illness. Of the respondents, 175 (21.8%) and 207 (25.8%) reported high and very high psychological distress, respectively. Factors associated with moderate to high levels of psychological distress were: youth, females, non-Saudi nationals, those experiencing a change in employment or a negative financial impact, having comorbidities, and current smoking. A high level of fear was reported by 89 participants (11.1%), and this was associated with being ex-smokers (3.72, 1.14-12.14, 0.029) and changes in employment (3.42, 1.91-6.11, 0.000). A high resilience was reported by 115 participants (14.3%), and 333 participants (41.5%) had medium resilience. Financial impact and contact with known/suspected cases (1.63, 1.12-2.38, 0.011) were associated with low, medium, to high resilient coping. (4) Conclusions: People in Saudi Arabia were at a higher risk of psychosocial distress along with medium-high resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, warranting urgent attention from healthcare providers and policymakers to provide specific mental health support strategies for their current wellbeing and to avoid a post-pandemic mental health crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talal Ali F Alharbi
- Department of Community, Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, College of Nursing, Qassim University, Buraidah 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alaa Ashraf Bagader Alqurashi
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Riyadh Second Health Cluster, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh 12271, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ilias Mahmud
- Department of Public Health, College of Public Health and Health Informatics, Qassim University, Al Bukairiyah 52741, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rayan Jafnan Alharbi
- Department of Emergency Medical Service, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Sheikh Mohammed Shariful Islam
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC 3125, Australia
| | - Sami Almustanyir
- Department of Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh 3125, Saudi Arabia
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 50927, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Ahmad AlSarraj
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 50927, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Jaffar A Al-Tawfiq
- Specialty Internal Medicine and Quality Department, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran 34465, Saudi Arabia
- Infectious Disease Division, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 47405, USA
- Infectious Disease Division, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Ahmed Ali Ahmed
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21523, Egypt
| | - Mazin Barry
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh 11421, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sherief Ghozy
- Radiology Department, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55902, USA
| | | | - Sheikh M Alif
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | | | - Masudus Salehin
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC 3806, Australia
| | - Biswajit Banik
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC 3806, Australia
- Manna Institute, Mental Health Research and Training for Regional Australia, Regional University Network (RUN), The University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
| | - Wendy Cross
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC 3806, Australia
| | - Muhammad Aziz Rahman
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC 3806, Australia
- Australian Institute for Primary Care & Ageing (AIPCA), La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia
- Department of Noncommunicable Diseases, Bangladesh University of Health Sciences (BUHS), Dhaka 1704, Bangladesh
- Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60115, Indonesia
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Elaidy AM, Hammoud MS, N. Albatineh A, Ridha FM, Hammoud SM, Elsadek HM, Rahman MA. Coping strategies to overcome psychological distress and fear during COVID-19 pandemic in Kuwait. MIDDLE EAST CURRENT PSYCHIATRY, AIN SHAMS UNIVERSITY 2023; 30:12. [PMCID: PMC9891193 DOI: 10.1186/s43045-023-00285-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has detrimental effects on both physical and psychological well-being of community people worldwide. The purpose of this research was to determine coping strategies and the factors associated with psychological distress and fear among adults in Kuwait during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results Participants with good-excellent mental health perception had significantly lower prevalence of reporting high psychological distress, while those identified as patients as used health services in the past 4 weeks had significantly higher prevalence of reporting high psychological distress. On the other hand, individuals born in the same country of residence, whose financial situation was impacted by COVID-19 had significantly lower prevalence of reporting high levels of fear from COVID-19. Those with an income source, with co-morbidities, tested negative to COVID-19, being frontline or essential worker, reported medium to high psychological distress and had significantly higher prevalence of high levels of fear of COVID-19. Conclusions Mental health services should be provided in addition to the existing services in primary healthcare settings, so that the impact of ongoing pandemic on psychological wellbeing of people in Kuwait can be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa M. Elaidy
- grid.411303.40000 0001 2155 6022Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Department of Psychiatry, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt ,grid.415706.10000 0004 0637 2112Kuwait Centre for Mental Health (KCMH), MOH, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Majeda S. Hammoud
- grid.411196.a0000 0001 1240 3921Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Ahmed N. Albatineh
- grid.411196.a0000 0001 1240 3921Faculty of Medicine, Department of Community Medicine and Behavioral Sciences, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Fatma Mustafa Ridha
- grid.415706.10000 0004 0637 2112Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmed Al Jaber Al Sabah Hospital, MOH, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Sabri M. Hammoud
- grid.415706.10000 0004 0637 2112Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmed Al Jaber Al Sabah Hospital, MOH, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Hala M. Elsadek
- grid.411303.40000 0001 2155 6022Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Muhammad Aziz Rahman
- grid.1040.50000 0001 1091 4859Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC 3806 Australia ,grid.440745.60000 0001 0152 762XFaculty of Public Health, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
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Chair SY, Chien WT, Liu T, Lam L, Cross W, Banik B, Rahman MA. Psychological Distress, Fear and Coping Strategies among Hong Kong People During the COVID-19 Pandemic. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2023; 42:2538-2557. [PMID: 34690470 PMCID: PMC8527280 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-02338-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic contributed to potential adverse effects on the mental health status of a wide range of people. This study aimed to identify factors associated with psychological distress, fear and coping strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic in Hong Kong. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among general population in Hong Kong. Psychological distress was assessed using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale; level of fear was evaluated using the Fear of COVID-19 scale; and coping strategies were assessed using the Brief Resilient Coping Scale. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify key factors associated with these mental health variables. Of the 555 participants, 53.9% experienced moderate to very high levels of psychological distress, 31.2% experienced a high level of fear of COVID-19, and 58.6% showed moderate to high resilient coping. Multivariable logistic regression indicated that living with family members, current alcohol consumption, and higher level of fear were associated with higher levels of psychological distress; perceived stress due to a change in employment condition, being a frontline worker, experiencing 'moderate to very high' distress, and healthcare service use to overcome the COVID-19 related stress in past 6 months were associated with a higher level of fear; and perceived better mental health status was associated with a moderate to high resilient coping. This study identified key factors associated with distress, fear and coping strategies during the pandemic in Hong Kong. Mental health support strategies should be provided continuously to prevent the mental impact of the pandemic from turning into long-term illness. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12144-021-02338-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sek Ying Chair
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Room 725A, Esther Lee Building, Shatin, NT Hong Kong
| | - Wai Tong Chien
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Room 725A, Esther Lee Building, Shatin, NT Hong Kong
| | - Ting Liu
- grid.10784.3a0000 0004 1937 0482The Nethersole School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Room 725A, Esther Lee Building, Shatin, NT Hong Kong
| | - Louisa Lam
- grid.1040.50000 0001 1091 4859School of Health, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC Australia
- grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Wendy Cross
- grid.1040.50000 0001 1091 4859School of Health, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC Australia
| | - Biswajit Banik
- grid.1040.50000 0001 1091 4859School of Health, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC Australia
| | - Muhammad Aziz Rahman
- grid.1040.50000 0001 1091 4859School of Health, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC Australia
- grid.1018.80000 0001 2342 0938Australian Institute of Primary Care and Ageing, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC Australia
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Stubbs JM, Achat HM. Pandemic Loneliness in Healthcare Workers. Does It Predict Later Psychological Distress? Psychol Rep 2022:332941221139719. [PMID: 36413372 PMCID: PMC9692176 DOI: 10.1177/00332941221139719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Increased loneliness associated with the COVID-19 pandemic has been widely reported, with healthcare workers at increased risk compared to the general population. Pre-pandemic research indicates that loneliness has long-term detrimental effects on mental well-being, but the effect of loneliness in the context of COVID-19 is not clear. We conducted an online survey of healthcare workers (HCWs) at a large teaching hospital in Sydney, Australia after the peak of the first wave of the pandemic in 2020. Over one-third experienced loneliness at the peak of the first wave. An observed association with high psychological distress in subsequent months was attenuated after adjusting for status of mental well-being during the peak and before the pandemic. Mental well-being during the peak of the pandemic and, to a lesser extent, mental well-being before the pandemic were the strongest predictors of later distress. Increased conflict at home was also predictive of later distress. The mental health of HCWs is an important consideration at any time and is especially so in the face of crises such as the current global pandemic. Strategies to enhance baseline mental well-being and bolster well-being during crisis situations should assist HCWs cope with unexpected stressors and reduce the associated detrimental psychological consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne M. Stubbs
- Epidemiology and Health Analytics, Western Sydney Local Health District, North Parramatta, NSW, Australia
| | - Helen M. Achat
- Epidemiology and Health Analytics, Western Sydney Local Health District, North Parramatta, NSW, Australia
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Alimoradi Z, Ohayon MM, Griffiths MD, Lin CY, Pakpour AH. Fear of COVID-19 and its association with mental health-related factors: systematic review and meta-analysis. BJPsych Open 2022; 8:e73. [PMID: 35307051 PMCID: PMC8943231 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2022.26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The severity of COVID-19 remains high worldwide. Therefore, millions of individuals are likely to suffer from fear of COVID-19 and related mental health factors. AIMS The present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize empirical evidence to understand fear of COVID-19 and its associations with mental health-related problems during this pandemic period. METHOD Relevant studies were searched for on five databases (Scopus, ProQuest, EMBASE, PubMed Central, and ISI Web of Knowledge), using relevant terms (COVID-19-related fear, anxiety, depression, mental health-related factors, mental well-being and sleep problems). All studies were included for analyses irrespective of their methodological quality, and the impact of quality on pooled effect size was examined by subgroup analysis. RESULTS The meta-analysis pooled data from 91 studies comprising 88 320 participants (mean age 38.88 years; 60.66% females) from 36 countries. The pooled estimated mean of fear of COVID-19 was 13.11 (out of 35), using the Fear of COVID-19 Scale. The associations between fear of COVID-19 and mental health-related factors were mostly moderate (Fisher's z = 0.56 for mental health-related factors; 0.54 for anxiety; 0.42 for stress; 0.40 for depression; 0.29 for sleep problems and -0.24 for mental well-being). Methodological quality did not affect these associations. CONCLUSIONS Fear of COVID-19 has associations with various mental health-related factors. Therefore, programmes for reducing fear of COVID-19 and improving mental health are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zainab Alimoradi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Maurice M Ohayon
- Stanford Sleep Epidemiology Research Center (SSERC), School of Medicine, Stanford University, California, USA
| | - Mark D Griffiths
- International Gaming Research Unit, Department of Psychology, Nottingham Trent University, UK
| | - Chung-Ying Lin
- Institute of Allied Health Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan; Biostatistics Consulting Center, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan; Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan; and Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan
| | - Amir H Pakpour
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Iran; and Department of Nursing, School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University, Sweden
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Psychological impact of COVID-19 on healthcare workers: cross-sectional analyses from 14 countries. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2022; 9:328-338. [PMID: 36606237 PMCID: PMC9300980 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2022.35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthcare workers (HCWs) have been impacted psychologically due to their professional responsibilities over the prolonged era of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The study aimed to identify the predictors of psychological distress, fear, and coping during the COVID-19 pandemic among HCWs. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among self-identified HCWs across 14 countries (12 from Asia and two from Africa). The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, the Fear of COVID-19 Scale, and the Brief Resilient Coping Scale were used to assess the psychological distress, fear, and coping of HCWs, respectively. RESULTS A total of 2447 HCWs participated; 36% were doctors, and 42% were nurses, with a mean age of 36 (±12) years, and 70% were females. Moderate to very-high psychological distress was prevalent in 67% of the HCWs; the lowest rate was reported in the United Arab Emirates (1%) and the highest in Indonesia (16%). The prevalence of high levels of fear was 20%; the lowest rate was reported in Libya (9%) and the highest in Egypt (32%). The prevalence of medium-to-high resilient coping was 63%; the lowest rate was reported in Libya (28%) and the highest in Syria (76%). CONCLUSION COVID-19 has augmented the psychological distress among HCWs. Factors identified in this study should be considered in managing the wellbeing of HCWs, who had been serving as the frontline drivers in managing the crisis successfully across all participating countries. Furthermore, interventions to address their psychological distress should be considered.
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Sabrina F, Chowdhury MTH, Nath SK, Imon AA, Quader SMA, Jahan MS, Noor AE, Podder CP, Gainju U, Niroula R, Rahman MA. Psychological Distress among Bangladeshi Dental Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 19:176. [PMID: 35010435 PMCID: PMC8750223 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Background: Psychological sufferings are observed among dental students during their academic years, which had been intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic. Objectives: This study assessed the levels and identified factors associated with psychological distress, fear and coping experienced by dental undergraduate students in Bangladesh. Methods: A cross sectional online survey was conducted during October-November, 2021. The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K-10), Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) and Brief Resilient Coping Scale (BRCS) were used in order to assess psychological distress, fear and coping strategies, respectively. Results: A total of 327 students participated; the majority (72%) were 19-23 years old and females (75%). One in five participants were infected with COVID-19 and 15% reported contact with COVID-19 cases. Negative financial impact (AOR 3.72, 95% CIs 1.28-10.8), recent or past COVID-19 infection, and contact with COVID-19 cases were associated with higher levels of psychological distress; but being a third year student (0.14, 0.04-0.55) and being satisfied about current social life (0.11, 0.03-0.33) were associated with lower levels of psychological distress. Being a third year (0.17, 0.08-0.39) and a fourth year student (0.29, 0.12-0.71) were associated with lower levels of fear. Health care service use and feeling positive about life were associated with medium to high resilience coping. Conclusions: This study identified dental students in Bangladesh who were at higher risk of psychological distress, fear and coping during the ongoing pandemic. Development of a mental health support system within dental institutions should be considered in addition to the academic and clinical teaching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah Sabrina
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Update Dental College, Dhaka 1711, Bangladesh; (F.S.); (A.A.I.)
| | | | - Sujan Kanti Nath
- Department of Dental Public Health, Sapporo Dental College, Dhaka 1230, Bangladesh; (S.K.N.); (A.E.N.); (C.P.P.)
| | - Ashik Abdullah Imon
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Update Dental College, Dhaka 1711, Bangladesh; (F.S.); (A.A.I.)
| | - S. M. Abdul Quader
- Department of Conservative Dentistry & Endodontics, Update Dental College, Dhaka 1711, Bangladesh;
| | - Md. Shahed Jahan
- Department of Dental Public Health, Update Dental College, Dhaka 1711, Bangladesh;
| | - Ashek Elahi Noor
- Department of Dental Public Health, Sapporo Dental College, Dhaka 1230, Bangladesh; (S.K.N.); (A.E.N.); (C.P.P.)
| | - Clopa Pina Podder
- Department of Dental Public Health, Sapporo Dental College, Dhaka 1230, Bangladesh; (S.K.N.); (A.E.N.); (C.P.P.)
| | - Unisha Gainju
- Update Dental College, Dhaka 1711, Bangladesh; (U.G.); (R.N.)
| | - Rina Niroula
- Update Dental College, Dhaka 1711, Bangladesh; (U.G.); (R.N.)
| | - Muhammad Aziz Rahman
- School of Health, Federation University Australia, Berwick 3806, Australia
- Department of Non-communicable Diseases, Bangladesh University of Health Sciences (BUHS), Dhaka 1216, Bangladesh
- Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60115, Indonesia
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10
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Rahman MA, Ford D, Sousa G, Hedley L, Greenstock L, Cross WM, Brumby S. Mental health at the COVID-19 frontline: An assessment of distress, fear, and coping among staff and attendees at screening clinics of rural/regional settings of Victoria, Australia. J Rural Health 2021; 38:773-787. [PMID: 34897806 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Research examining psychological well-being associated with COVID-19 in rural/regional Australia is limited. This study aimed to assess the extent of psychological distress, fear of COVID-19, and coping strategies among the attendees in COVID-19 screening clinics at 2 rural Victorian settings. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted during July 2020 to February 2021 inclusive. Participants were invited to fill in an online questionnaire. Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K-10), Fear of COVID-19 Scale, and Brief Resilient Coping Scale were used to assess psychological distress, fear of COVID-19, and coping, respectively. FINDINGS Among 702 total participants, 69% were females and mean age (±SD) was 49 (±15.8) years. One in 5 participants (156, 22%) experienced high to very high psychological distress, 1 in 10 (72, 10%) experienced high fear, and more than half (397, 57%) had medium to high resilient coping. Participants with mental health issues had higher distress (AOR 10.4, 95% CI: 6.25-17.2) and fear (2.56, 1.41-4.66). Higher distress was also associated with having comorbidities, increased smoking (5.71, 1.04-31.4), and alcohol drinking (2.03, 1.21-3.40). Higher fear was associated with negative financial impact, drinking alcohol (2.15, 1.06-4.37), and increased alcohol drinking. Medium to high resilient coping was associated with being ≥60 years old (1.84, 1.04-3.24) and completing Bachelor and above levels of education. CONCLUSION People who had pre-existing mental health issues, comorbidities, smoked, and consumed alcohol were identified as high-risk groups for poorer psychological well-being in rural/regional Victoria. Specific interventions to support the mental well-being of these vulnerable populations, along with engaging health care providers, should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Aziz Rahman
- School of Health, Federation University Australia, Berwick, Victoria, Australia.,National Centre for Farmer Health, Deakin University, Hamilton, Victoria, Australia.,Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Dale Ford
- Western District Health Service (WDHS), Hamilton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Grace Sousa
- South West Healthcare (SWH), Warrnambool, Victoria, Australia.,Hawaii Emergency Physicians Associated, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Lorraine Hedley
- Western District Health Service (WDHS), Hamilton, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Wendy M Cross
- School of Health, Federation University Australia, Berwick, Victoria, Australia
| | - Susan Brumby
- National Centre for Farmer Health, Deakin University, Hamilton, Victoria, Australia.,Western District Health Service (WDHS), Hamilton, Victoria, Australia
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11
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Brennan ME, Marinovich ML, Verdonk B, Vukasovic M, Coggins A. Symptoms of anxiety, depression and fear in healthcare workers and non-healthcare workers undergoing outpatient COVID-19 testing in an urban Australian setting. Aust J Prim Health 2021; 27:442-449. [PMID: 34818513 DOI: 10.1071/py21139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
This study assessed symptoms of anxiety, depression and fear of COVID-19 in members of the general community and healthcare workers (HCWs) attending for COVID testing. This cross-sectional study was conducted in a public hospital COVID-19 testing clinic (June-September 2020) using self-administered questionnaires (i.e. the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and the Fear of COVID-19 Scale). In all, 430 participants who met the criteria for COVID-19 testing with nasopharyngeal and throat swabs completed the questionnaires. The mean (±s.d.) age of participants was 37.6 ± 12.6 years. HCWs made up 35.1% of the sample. Overall, the mean (±s.d.) score for anxiety was 6.09 ± 4.41 and 'case' prevalence (any severity) was 151/430 (35.1%), higher than normative population scores. Higher anxiety was found in women (P = 0.001) and in clients who had previously been tested for coronavirus (P = 0.03). HCWs had lower anxiety scores than members of the general community (P = 0.001). For depression, the mean (±s.d.) score was 4.18 ± 3.60, with a 'case' prevalence (any severity) of 82/430 (19.1%), similar to normative population scores. Women reported a higher level of COVID-19 fear (P = 0.001), as did people with a lower education level (P = 0.001). A greater psychological impact of COVID-19 was observed in women, people undergoing repeat testing and participants reporting lower levels of educational attainment. HCWs had fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression than non-HCWs attending the same clinic for COVID-19 testing. This information can be used to plan mental health interventions in primary care and testing settings during this and future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Brennan
- The University of Sydney, Sydney Medical School, Camperdown, NSW, Australia; and The University of Notre Dame Australia, School of Medicine, Sydney, NSW, Australia; and COVID-19 Clinic, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia; and Corresponding author.
| | - M L Marinovich
- Curtin School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; and Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - B Verdonk
- COVID-19 Clinic, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - M Vukasovic
- Emergency Department, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - A Coggins
- Emergency Department, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
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12
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Rahman MA, Islam SMS, Tungpunkom P, Sultana F, Alif SM, Banik B, Salehin M, Joseph B, Lam L, Watts MC, Khan SJ, Ghozy S, Chair SY, Chien WT, Schönfeldt-Lecuona C, El-Khazragy N, Mahmud I, Al Mawali AH, Al Maskari TS, Alharbi RJ, Hamza A, Keblawi MA, Hammoud M, Elaidy AM, Susanto AD, Bahar Moni AS, AlQurashi AA, Ali A, Wazib A, Sanluang CS, Elsori DH, Yasmin F, Taufik FF, Al Kloub M, Ruiz MG, Elsayed M, Eltewacy NK, Al Laham N, Oli N, Abdelnaby R, Dweik R, Thongyu R, Almustanyir S, Rahman S, Nitayawan S, Al-Madhoun S, Inthong S, Alharbi TA, Bahar T, Ginting TT, Cross WM. COVID-19: Factors associated with psychological distress, fear, and coping strategies among community members across 17 countries. Global Health 2021; 17:117. [PMID: 34598720 PMCID: PMC8485312 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-021-00768-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The current pandemic of COVID-19 impacted the psychological wellbeing of populations globally. Objectives We aimed to examine the extent and identify factors associated with psychological distress, fear of COVID-19 and coping. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study across 17 countries during Jun-2020 to Jan-2021. Levels of psychological distress (Kessler Psychological Distress Scale), fear of COVID-19 (Fear of COVID-19 Scale), and coping (Brief Resilient Coping Scale) were assessed. Results A total of 8,559 people participated; mean age (±SD) was 33(±13) years, 64% were females and 40% self-identified as frontline workers. More than two-thirds (69%) experienced moderate-to-very high levels of psychological distress, which was 46% in Thailand and 91% in Egypt. A quarter (24%) had high levels of fear of COVID-19, which was as low as 9% in Libya and as high as 38% in Bangladesh. More than half (57%) exhibited medium to high resilient coping; the lowest prevalence (3%) was reported in Australia and the highest (72%) in Syria. Being female (AOR 1.31 [95% CIs 1.09-1.57]), perceived distress due to change of employment status (1.56 [1.29-1.90]), comorbidity with mental health conditions (3.02 [1.20-7.60]) were associated with higher levels of psychological distress and fear. Doctors had higher psychological distress (1.43 [1.04-1.97]), but low levels of fear of COVID-19 (0.55 [0.41-0.76]); nurses had medium to high resilient coping (1.30 [1.03-1.65]). Conclusions The extent of psychological distress, fear of COVID-19 and coping varied by country; however, we identified few higher risk groups who were more vulnerable than others. There is an urgent need to prioritise health and well-being of those people through well-designed intervention that may need to be tailored to meet country specific requirements. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12992-021-00768-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Aziz Rahman
- School of Health, Federation University Australia, Berwick, Victoria, Australia. .,Australia Institute for Primary Care and Ageing (AIPCA), La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. .,Department of Noncommunicable Diseases, Bangladesh University of Health Sciences (BUHS), Dhaka, Bangladesh.
| | | | | | | | | | - Biswajit Banik
- School of Health, Federation University Australia, Berwick, Victoria, Australia
| | - Masudus Salehin
- School of Health, Federation University Australia, Berwick, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bindu Joseph
- School of Health, Federation University Australia, Berwick, Victoria, Australia
| | - Louisa Lam
- School of Health, Federation University Australia, Berwick, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | - Sherief Ghozy
- Neurovascular Research Lab, Radiology Department, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Sek Ying Chair
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Wai Tong Chien
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | | | | | - Ilias Mahmud
- Department of Public Health, College of Public Health and Health Informatics, Qassim University, Al Bukairiyah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Rayan Jafnan Alharbi
- Department of Emergency Medical Service, Jazan University, Jazan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Amr Hamza
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Aleppo, Aleppo, Syria
| | | | - Majeda Hammoud
- Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Asmaa M Elaidy
- Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Al-azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Agus Dwi Susanto
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | | | | | | | - Amit Wazib
- Enam Medical College & Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | | | | | - Feni Fitrani Taufik
- Department of Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | | | - Mara Gerbabe Ruiz
- Oman College of Health Sciences-South Sharquiya, Sur, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Mohamed Elsayed
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Ramy Abdelnaby
- Department of Neurology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Rania Dweik
- Abu Dhabi University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Suwit Inthong
- Faculty of Nursing, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Talal Ali Alharbi
- King Saud University Medical City, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Tamanna Bahar
- National Institute of Cancer Research and Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Wendy M Cross
- School of Health, Federation University Australia, Berwick, Victoria, Australia
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13
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Bahar Moni AS, Abdullah S, Bin Abdullah MFIL, Kabir MS, Alif SM, Sultana F, Salehin M, Islam SMS, Cross W, Rahman MA. Psychological distress, fear and coping among Malaysians during the COVID-19 pandemic. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257304. [PMID: 34506576 PMCID: PMC8432783 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has enormously affected the psychological well-being, social and working life of millions of people across the world. This study aimed to investigate the psychological distress, fear and coping strategies as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and its associated factors among Malaysian residents. Methods Participants were invited to an online cross-sectional survey from Aug-Sep 2020. The study assessed psychological distress using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, level of fear using the Fear of COVID-19 Scale, and coping strategies using the Brief Resilient Coping Scale. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to adjust for potential confounders. Results The mean age (±SD) of the participants (N = 720) was 31.7 (±11.5) years, and most of them were females (67.1%). Half of the participants had an income source, while 216 (30%) identified themselves as frontline health or essential service workers. People whose financial situation was impacted due to COVID-19 (AOR 2.16, 95% CIs 1.54–3.03), people who drank alcohol in the last four weeks (3.43, 1.45–8.10), people who were a patient (2.02, 1.39–2.93), and had higher levels of fear of COVID-19 (2.55, 1.70–3.80) were more likely to have higher levels of psychological distress. Participants who self-isolated due to exposure to COVID-19 (3.12, 1.04–9.32) and who had moderate to very high levels of psychological distress (2.56, 1.71–3.83) had higher levels of fear. Participants who provided care to a family member/patient with a suspected case of COVID-19 were more likely to be moderately to highly resilient compared to those who did not. Conclusion Vulnerable groups of individuals such as patients and those impacted financially during COVID-19 should be supported for their mental wellbeing. Behavioural interventions should be targeted to reduce the impact of alcohol drinking during such crisis period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Suparno Bahar Moni
- Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bertam, Kepala Batas, Penang, Malaysia
- * E-mail: (ASBM); (MAR)
| | - Shalimar Abdullah
- Faculty of Medicine, Pusat Perubatan Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | | | - Sheikh M. Alif
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Farhana Sultana
- Telstra Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Masudus Salehin
- School of Health, Federation University Australia, Berwick, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Wendy Cross
- School of Health, Federation University Australia, Berwick, Victoria, Australia
| | - Muhammad Aziz Rahman
- School of Health, Federation University Australia, Berwick, Victoria, Australia
- Australian Institute for Primary Care and Ageing, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Noncommunicable Diseases, Bangladesh University of Health Sciences (BUHS), Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
- * E-mail: (ASBM); (MAR)
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