Assessment of the Well-Being and Psychological Impact of Confinement in Morocco during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic and compulsory isolation measures linked to it inflicted psychological, social, political, and economic effects worldwide. Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the psychological impact and the mental well-being of Moroccan population during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We conducted a survey using an online questionnaire which collected information on demographic data, living environment, evolution of consumption habits during lockdown, and additional information. Psychological impact was assessed by the Peri-traumatic Distress Inventory (PDI), and the mental well-being was assessed by The Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (WEMWBS). Results obtained for healthcare professionals were compared to those obtained in the general population. Results: 2273 respondents were included in the study. In total, 31,45% of respondents rated a score of peri-traumatic distress greater than or equal to 15. The average of the mental well-being score was 50.121. Most respondents (79.3%) increased their digital screen time as well as the consumption of coffee, calorie-rich, fatty and sugary foods. Factors such as female gender, psychiatric history and accommodation without a terrace or balcony were significantly associated with a higher psychological impact of the outbreak and higher scores of PDI. Nevertheless, no significant difference in the mental well-being and PDI scores was found between healthcare workers and the general population in our study. Conclusion: During the COVID-19 pandemic in Morocco, about one-third of respondents indicated significant distress. Our findings identify factors associated with a lower or a better level of mental health status that can help us to develop appropriate interventions for managing the psychosocial consequences of pandemic.