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Trauma-Related Distress During the COVID-19 Pandemic In 59 Countries
Melissa M Ertl1, Stephen K Trapp2, Elisabet Alzueta3,4
1University at Albany-State University of New York, Albany, NY, USA.
The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant trauma-related distress in over two-thirds of adults globally. Factors like unemployment, illness, and isolation exacerbated these mental health impacts.
Area of Science:
- Global Health
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly impacted global populations.
- Understanding differential impacts across diverse groups is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine trauma-related distress among adults during the early COVID-19 pandemic.
- To identify demographic and situational factors associated with increased distress.
Main Methods:
- Survey of 6,882 adults aged 18-94 across 59 countries (April-May 2020).
- Analysis of factors associated with clinically significant trauma-related distress.
Main Results:
- Over two-thirds of participants reported clinically significant trauma-related distress.
- Distress linked to unemployment, gender identity (transgender, nonbinary, cisgender women), COVID-19 diagnosis/symptoms, loss of loved ones, isolation, financial hardship, and food insecurity.
- Regional differences observed, with higher distress in Latin America and the Caribbean compared to Europe and Central Asia.
Conclusions:
- The pandemic precipitated widespread trauma-related distress.
- Addressing distress is vital to prevent long-term mental health issues.
- Targeted interventions are needed for vulnerable populations.
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