The Prevalence of Depression Among Medical Staff During The COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Background: Medical professionals' psychological health has been significantly damaged by the COVID-19 pandemic, with nurses being a particularly susceptible group. The purpose of this study is to assess the prevalence of depression among healthcare professionals during the pandemic, investigate risk variables, and provide suitable supportive treatments. Objective: This research combines data from 11 studies involving 424 healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and others. The prevalence of depression and associated variables in these professions during the COVID-19 outbreak are examined. Methods: Data were gathered from many study initiatives that covered the 2020 to 2023 time period. In these research, the Impact of Events Scale Revised (IES-R), the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) were used to assess post-traumatic stress, depression, and stress levels. The study looked into demographic variables, individuals' mental health backgrounds, and aspects connected to their jobs in the healthcare industry. Results: COVID-19 pandemic led to 19% severe depression symptoms in healthcare professionals, with females, younger workers, and nursing professionals more susceptible. Social support strongly influences the results of mental health. Conclusion: Medical staff's mental health has been severely impacted by the COVID-19 epidemic, with nurses experiencing increased levels of despair and anxiety. Gender disparities in mental health outcomes highlight the need for targeted support for female healthcare workers. Improving working conditions and strengthening social support networks are essential steps in addressing these mental health challenges. To fully understand the long-term consequences on the mental health of healthcare workers, taking into consideration cultural and socioeconomic factors, further longitudinal study is needed. Offering culturally sensitive mental health support is pivotal for the welfare of healthcare workers.