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The Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health and Sleep Function of Hospital Staff Working With COVID-19 Patients: A
Mohammad Al-Tamimi1, Iman Aolymat2, Rahaf Alkhateeb3
1Department of Microbiology, Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan.
Summary
Healthcare workers (HCWs) in COVID-19 centers experienced high stress, anxiety, and insomnia. Female gender, less experience, and increased patient contact were linked to anxiety, while younger age and being a nurse were associated with insomnia.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Mental Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted global public health, creating immense pressure on healthcare systems.
- Healthcare workers (HCWs) faced unprecedented challenges, leading to increased psychological distress, including anxiety, stress, and insomnia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the levels of anxiety, stress, and insomnia among HCWs.
- To identify specific risk factors associated with these mental health challenges in HCWs working in COVID-19 isolation and treatment facilities.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted among 183 HCWs in 10 Jordanian COVID-19 hospitals/centers.
- Validated questionnaires, including the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Perceived Stress Scale 10, and Insomnia Severity Index, were used.
- Statistical analyses, including t-tests, ANOVA, Chi-square, Fisher exact test, and multivariate analysis, were performed.
Main Results:
- Nearly all participants (97.3%) reported moderate to severe stress, 68% reported borderline to high anxiety, and 32% experienced moderate to severe insomnia.
- Significant positive correlations were found between anxiety, stress, and insomnia (P < .005).
- Independent risk factors for anxiety included female gender, migraine, less working experience, and increased patient contact. Factors for insomnia included younger age, being single/divorced, heart disease, smoking, and being a nurse. Stress was associated with increased patient contact, lower support, and anxiety.
Conclusions:
- HCWs in COVID-19 treatment centers exhibit alarmingly high levels of stress, anxiety, and insomnia.
- Targeted interventions are crucial to support the mental well-being of HCWs during and after pandemics.
- Identifying and addressing specific risk factors can help mitigate the psychological burden on frontline healthcare professionals.
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