SEVERITY OF MENTAL ILLNESS AMONG THE INDIVIDUALS DURING 1ST, 2ND AND 3RD WAVE OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC LIVING IN BAHAWALPUR CITY

Abstract

This current study was carried out to examine the severity of mental illness among the individuals during different waves of covid-19 pandemic. In this connection Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-42) was administered during 1st, 2nd, and 3rd wave of covid-19 pandemic among the individuals living in Bahawalpur City. The total sample of this study was (N=300) individuals living in Bahawalpur City. Out of which (n=100) completed the DASS-42 scale during 1st wave, (n=100) completed during 2nd wave and (n=100) completed during 3rd wave of covid-19 pandemic. The collected data was analyzed by using the SPSS. The results from the collected data revealed that the level of stress was higher among the individuals during 1st and 2nd waves but level of depression and anxiety were higher only during 3rd wave of covid-19 pandemic. The comparison among the gender revealed a higher level of anxiety, stress and depression among female as compared with male. The overall level of depression was higher among married individuals as compared to unmarried individuals. Furthermore, the level of depression was severe among the unemployed individuals as compared with employed individuals. On the basis of the results it concluded that the covid-19 pandemic was not only a medical issue but it was a vicious mental torture for the individuals as well. Hence, the study suggested introducing mental health promoting programs to control the increasing mental health issues among the individuals. Key Words: Stress, anxiety, Depression, COVID-19 Pandemic, 1st, 2nd & 3rd Wave.