Predictors of Pandemic Impact in a Rural Community: Survey Results from a Community Partnership to Support Health and Well-Being.

Abstract

Rural communities have struggled to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite slower spread at the start of the pandemic in these areas, by 2021, they experienced higher death and hospitalization rates compared with urban areas. Increased mental health issues including stress, depression, and anxiety were also reported in rural areas following the start of the pandemic. Young people in these communities were significantly impacted by COVID-19, reporting increased stress and mental health issues. To examine the effects of COVID-19 on these local rural communities, authors conducted a survey in coordination with their community partners. The survey was completed by 119 participants across three rural counties and included 69 questions from the Pandemic Stress Index and the World Health Organization COVID-19 Rapid Quantitative Assessment Tool. Authors' results indicated that age, depression, and anxiety were predictors of higher self-reported COVID-19 impact. The strongest predictor of high pandemic impact in the sample was the combination of depression and anxiety symptoms. Authors used these results to inform their partners about the need for increased mental health services that are tailored for young adults in their communities. More research is needed to determine which services will be most beneficial and how to best reach those in need. Social workers in both public health and mental health settings are poised to help.