Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: The covid-19 pandemic and mental health consequences
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Subtitle: a systematic review
Original source:
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Sunitha Mahadevan, Dhanya Dharman and Shaiju S. Dharan
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: The covid-19 pandemic and mental health consequences
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr202012-18893
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic has emerged as a significant global health crisis leading to over 15 million cases and more than 630,000 deaths worldwide. Alongside the physical health concerns, there is a rising emphasis on the mental health ramifications of this outbreak. This review seeks to systematically evaluate the existing literature regarding the psychological impact of COVID-19 on both the general population and healthcare workers, drawing attention to the need for mental health interventions during these unprecedented times.
Mental Health Effects on the General Population
The pandemic's toll on mental health is profound, with various studies indicating a rise in anxiety, depression, stress, and other psychological distress among the general populace. Systematic searches across multiple databases until July 2020 revealed that compared to pre-COVID-19 conditions, individuals now report lower psychological well-being. The literature illustrates that loneliness, anxiety, and depression have surged due to imposed measures like quarantine and self-isolation, underscoring the importance of mental health education and interventions to mitigate these adverse psychological outcomes.
Impact on Healthcare Workers
Healthcare workers (HCWs), standing on the frontlines of the COVID-19 crisis, are particularly susceptible to mental health challenges. Reports from various studies indicate increased levels of depressive symptoms, anxiety, psychological distress, and poor sleep quality among HCWs. A systematic analysis identified a significant rise in depression and anxiety among medical staff working in isolated units, emphasizing that many had not received adequate training to address mental health care. This situation underscores the pressing need for psychological support and resources for healthcare professionals facing overwhelming demands.
Importance of Psychological Interventions
The findings highlight the critical role of psychological interventions tailored to the needs of both the general public and healthcare professionals amid the pandemic. The review points out that fear and anxiety stemming from the rational apprehension of COVID-19's spread necessitate urgent attention from public health authorities. Initiatives focused on educating vulnerable groups about mental health can alleviate burdens associated with anxiety and stress. As proposed, these interventions are essential for maintaining psychological well-being during and beyond the pandemic.
Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic has spotlighted significant mental health concerns that must be addressed. The intersection of physical health and mental well-being has never been more pronounced, calling for immediate action from policymakers and mental health practitioners. The implementation of psychological support programs and the promotion of mental health education are paramount to safeguarding the mental health of both the general population and frontline healthcare workers during this global health crisis.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main focus of the reviewed literature on COVID-19?
The literature review primarily focuses on the mental health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, specifically identifying psychiatric symptoms like anxiety, depression, and stress among healthcare workers and the general public.
How many studies were included in the systematic review?
A total of 27 studies were retrieved, with 23 articles ultimately included in the review, out of which 13 were original research studies specifically addressing mental health impacts.
What mental health issues are prevalent due to COVID-19?
The pandemic has resulted in increased rates of anxiety, depression, stress, insomnia, and other psychological issues among affected populations, particularly in healthcare workers.
What measures are recommended to support mental health during the pandemic?
The review emphasizes the need for psychological interventions and mental health education to help vulnerable groups cope with the mental health impact of COVID-19.
How did COVID-19 impact healthcare workers' mental health?
Healthcare workers experienced higher levels of depression, anxiety, psychological distress, and poor sleep quality, particularly due to the stressful environment created by the pandemic.
What are the implications of the findings for public policy?
The findings highlight the importance of recognizing mental health issues as a public health priority, urging policymakers to adopt strategies that reduce the burdens imposed by the pandemic on vulnerable populations.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “The covid-19 pandemic and mental health consequences”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Mental health:
Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing how individuals think, feel, and act. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected mental health worldwide, leading to increased levels of anxiety, depression, and psychological distress within populations. Addressing mental health concerns is critical for recovery during such crises.
2) Anxiety:
Anxiety is a common mental health symptom characterized by feelings of worry, fear, or unease. During the COVID-19 pandemic, studies reported heightened anxiety levels among the general population and healthcare workers, driven by uncertainty, health risks, and isolation, ultimately impacting overall psychological well-being.
3) Depression:
Depression is a mood disorder causing persistent sadness and loss of interest. The pandemic has exacerbated depressive symptoms in various populations, as evidenced in multiple studies highlighted in the systematic review. Recognizing and treating depression has become crucial, especially among vulnerable groups affected by the crisis.
4) Cina:
China was the initial epicenter of the COVID-19 outbreak, leading to significant research on its mental health implications. Various studies from China reported increased anxiety, depression, and stress levels among its population and healthcare workers during the pandemic, highlighting the need for mental health interventions.
5) India:
India has experienced considerable impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic, with numerous studies evaluating its mental health consequences. Reports indicated elevated rates of anxiety, depression, and stress among the Indian populace, underscoring the importance of targeted mental health education and intervention strategies.
6) Education:
Mental health education is vital for promoting psychological well-being, particularly during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. It encompasses awareness and interventions that equip individuals with skills to manage stress, anxiety, and depression, fostering resilience within communities and vulnerable populations.
7) Table:
Tables are organizational tools that systematically present data and findings from studies. In this article, tables summarize research outcomes on mental health impacts, delineating the prevalence of symptoms such as anxiety and depression among diverse populations affected by the pandemic.
8) Science (Scientific):
Science is a systematic approach to acquiring knowledge through observation and experimentation. In the context of mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic, scientific research plays a critical role in understanding psychological impacts and identifying strategies to mitigate mental health issues in affected populations.
9) Study (Studying):
A study refers to an investigation or research effort aimed at exploring specific questions or phenomena. The systematic review discussed in this article included 27 studies that evaluated mental health outcomes related to COVID-19, providing valuable insights into its psychological effects across different populations.
10) Fear:
Fear is an emotional response to perceived threats, particularly intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mass quarantines and isolation strategies led to increased feelings of fear, contributing to heightened anxiety and stress, which impacted mental health across the global population.
11) Drug:
Drugs are chemical substances used for medical treatment. During the pandemic, the focus shifted to developing drugs and vaccines for COVID-19 while also addressing the mental health impacts of isolation and stress, where pharmacological support may be necessary for managing symptoms.
12) Developing:
Developing refers to the process of creating or improving interventions or strategies. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a critical need for developing psychological interventions and educational programs aimed at enhancing mental health awareness and coping strategies among affected individuals.
13) Training:
Training involves teaching individuals specific skills or knowledge. In the context of mental health during COVID-19, there is an emphasis on training healthcare professionals to provide mental health support, as many were unprepared for the psychological challenges faced during the pandemic.
14) Quality:
Quality refers to the standard or degree of excellence associated with a resource or service. Ensuring quality mental health care and interventions during the COVID-19 pandemic is essential for effectively addressing the psychological impacts experienced by individuals and communities.
15) Death:
Death represents the ultimate consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, with significant fatalities reported worldwide. The psychological impact of loss and grief is profound, affecting mental health by increasing anxiety and depression among those mourning loved ones lost to the virus.
16) Pur:
Poor mental health denotes unfavorable psychological well-being, often characterized by high levels of anxiety, depression, and stress. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to increased poor mental health outcomes in various populations, emphasizing the need for effective interventions and mental health support.
17) Discussion:
Discussion in research articles refers to the section where authors interpret results, place findings in context, and suggest implications. In the context of the pandemic's mental health impacts, discussions provide insights into the necessity for preventive measures and mental health support strategies.
18) Relative:
Relative can refer to a comparison or relation among entities. In mental health discussions, relative risks often arise in assessing the psychological impacts of the pandemic compared to previous crises, helping researchers understand the unique stresses posed by COVID-19.
19) Disease:
Disease refers to an abnormal medical condition affecting an individual's bodily functions or structures. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted how infectious diseases can provoke significant mental health concerns, creating challenges for both physical and psychological wellness in impacted populations.
20) Worry (Worried, Worrying):
Worried denotes a state of anxiety or concern about potential negative outcomes. Heightened worry over health, loved ones, and uncertain futures during the COVID-19 pandemic has led to increased anxiety and psychological distress, making mental health support crucial during and after the crisis.
21) Dhanya:
Dhanya Dharman is one of the co-authors of the systematic review exploring the mental health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her involvement highlights the collaborative effort to address psychological impacts during this global crisis through scholarly research.
22) Bengal (Bemgal):
Bengal, specifically West Bengal, India, is referenced in the research findings indicating a study conducted there, which assessed mental health conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results reflect the psychological effects observed in regional populations, contributing to the overall understanding of mental health trends.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘The covid-19 pandemic and mental health consequences’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Fear and anxiety, Literature-Search, Systematic Review, COVID-19 Pandemic, Psychological distress, Depression prevalence, Cross-sectional studies, Anxiety Score, Psychological intervention, Quarantine measures, Vulnerable group, Self-isolation, Health care worker.