Mental health impact of COVID-19 pandemic in India: A web-based community survey

Abstract

Background: The coronavirus pandemic has impacted the globe, altering lives of people in all domains, and added insecurity, thereby taking a toll on their mental health. Addressing the parallel surge of psychological problems and identifying the vulnerable population is of equal concern. This study aims at assessing the symptoms of anxiety and depression in the population during the coronavirus pandemic. Methodology: It was a cross-sectional methodological web-based survey to assess psychological influence of the coronavirus pandemic. A sociodemographic pro forma, validated questionnaire consisting questions about awareness regarding coronavirus, and Goldberg Anxiety and Depression Scale were included in the survey. Results: A total of 1027 participants completed the survey questionnaire. Clinically significant anxiety and depressive symptoms were found in 17.9% and 40.7%, respectively. There was statistically significant difference in prevalence of anxiety symptoms by gender (P = 0.009), age group (P = 0.030), marital status (P = 0.001), and occupation (P = 0.012). Depressive symptoms also significantly differed across age group (P = 0.001), marital status (P = 0.000), education (P = 0.020), occupation (P = 0.009), income group (P = 0.038), and place of living (P = 0.039). A significant difference of knowledge (about COVID-19) was seen between the groups with and without clinically significant depressive symptoms. Distress was noted mostly with information overload and the fear of contracting coronavirus infection. Conclusion: More than one-third of participants had clinically significant psychological symptoms. This suggests the requirement of more structured and long-term studies, and the need for appropriate mental health services to masses.