Revista de Prácticas Avanzadas en Enfermería

Psychological Impact of (COVID-19) Pandemic among the Public

Abstract

Aruna Jyothi Shanmugam*

Purpose: The sudden outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic and its impact induced various psychological impacts on the public. Early identification and management of the psychological distress can prevent mental health problems. The aim of the study is to assess the Psychological impact of (COVID-19) Pandemic among the public.

Methods: We conducted an online survey to collect the data from 250 participants. The demographic data, level of anxiety and depression were assessed by using Self-Rating Anxiety Scale and the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale.

Results: The study finding shows that Out of 250 participants, 66(26.45%) were affected with anxiety and 143(58%) were depressed. Regarding physiological manifestation of Anxiety, 9.2% of people felt weak and tired quickly, 12.4% of people often had to urinate and 8% of suffered from head, neck, back pain. In terms of emotional responses, 10% of people were more nervous and anxious than usual, 6.8% were afraid for no reason, and 10.8% were easily upset or panicked. In terms of emotional response, 10.8% of people were feeling unhappy and depressed.

Conclusion: the finding shows that; the participants were affected with psychological problems of anxiety and depression. As per analysis, 0.8% of the participants were affected with severe anxiety and 5.0% with depression. Before it becomes worse, it is a time to counsel the general public to cope with the present situation and help them to lead a healthy life.