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Increases in distress during stay-at-home mandates During the COVID-19 pandemic: A longitudinal study

Julia D Buckner1, Cristina N Abarno1, Elizabeth M Lewis1

  • 1Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA.

Psychiatry Research
|March 4, 2021
PubMed

Insights

The COVID-19 pandemic increased depression among young adults during stay-at-home orders. Pre-existing anxiety and depression worsened during the pandemic, particularly social anxiety, impacting worry and impairment.

Area of Science:

  • Psychology
  • Public Health
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant global mortality and morbidity.
  • Cross-sectional studies suggest increased anxiety and depression during the pandemic, but prospective data are lacking.
  • Individuals with pre-pandemic trait anxiety may be more vulnerable to pandemic-related distress.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To prospectively examine changes in anxiety and depression from pre- to during stay-at-home orders.
  • To investigate the relationship between pre-pandemic psychological factors and pandemic-related mental health outcomes.
  • To assess the impact of social anxiety on COVID-19 related worry and impairment.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective study involving 120 young adults in Louisiana.
  • Assessment of anxiety and depression levels before and during state-mandated stay-at-home orders.
  • Statistical analysis to determine predictors of pandemic-related anxiety, depression, worry, and impairment.

Main Results:

  • Depression levels significantly increased during the stay-at-home period, while anxiety did not.
  • Pre-pandemic trait anxiety, social anxiety, and depression predicted higher anxiety and depression during the stay-at-home order.
  • Pre-pandemic social anxiety was a robust predictor of increased COVID-19 related worry and impairment.

Conclusions:

  • Emotional distress, particularly depression, increased during the COVID-19 pandemic stay-at-home order.
  • Individuals with higher pre-pandemic trait anxiety, especially social anxiety, and depression experienced greater adverse effects.
  • Findings highlight the vulnerability of certain individuals to pandemic-related mental health challenges.

Keywords:
AnxietyCoronavirusDepression

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