A Survey-based Study of Psychological Impact of Lock Down Due to COVID 19 Pandemic on Indian Working Class Using Statistical Design

Abstract

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19), identified within the Wuhan, Hubei Province of China in November 2019, needs distinct attention because of its fatal nature. The spreading of any infectious diseases is generally prevented by quarantine and containment or locking down of the populations in danger. Countries suffering from COVID-19 are declaring the country lockdown and restricting public movement. India also has declared full lockdown and restricted public movement to a large extent. Such drastic steps have a severe psychological impact on populations. Being locked up for weeks in a very confined space with the same group of individuals being depressed, nervous, and tired, which is further aggravating various domestic and interpersonal issues. A web-based survey was formed which supported a cross-sectional sampling method and collected data across different working-class population groups in India. The responders had a beginner level of knowledge about the COVID-19 infection and adequate knowledge about its preventive aspects was unknown. Results indicate that 13% of the respondents experienced severe anxiety, 11% moderate anxiety, and 28% are mildly anxious. The results suggest that governments should find effective ways to disseminate unbiased COVID-19 knowledge to reduce population insecurity and provide the best mental equipment to cope with the pandemic.