COVID-19: A Retrospective Study on the Impact of the Pandemic on Healthcare Workers' Mental Health

Abstract

Background: Healthcare workers (HCWs) were at the forefront of the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic, facing daily risks of infection and enduring long, demanding work shifts. This prolonged exposure placed them at significant risk for mental health challenges. This study provides an evidence-based analysis of the adverse mental health impacts experienced by healthcare workers during the COVID-19 crisis, underscoring the importance of prioritizing their psychological well-being in future public health emergencies.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted through an online survey during the COVID-19 pandemic, involving 398 healthcare workers from tertiary care hospitals, collected via the Google Forms platform. The survey assessed levels of anxiety, depression, and stress among participants.

Results: The results revealed a significant prevalence of depression, with female healthcare workers reporting higher levels of anxiety, stress, and depression compared to males. Those living apart from their families also showed elevated depression levels. Additionally, mental health scores varied significantly between senior residents, junior residents, and interns, with those working in COVID-19 ICUs experiencing the highest levels of anxiety, depression, and stress.

Conclusion: The findings highlight the critical need for ongoing mental health support for healthcare workers and the necessity of implementing effective mental health interventions during future health crises.