Use of Psychopharmaceuticals for Treating Anxiety During COVID-19 isolation in Detained Women in Santa Fe in 2020

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry and Mental Health
• Criminology and Forensic Psychology
• Epidemiology

Context:

• The study examines psychotropic drug use for anxiety among incarcerated women during the COVID-19 pandemic's mandatory social isolation period (ASPO) in Santa Fe, Argentina.
• It focuses on Unit Penal N° IV from January to June 2020, comparing ASPO period data with pre-pandemic trends.
• The research addresses the potential impact of ASPO on the mental health of detained women.

Purpose:

• To characterize the psychotropic drug prescription profile for anxiety in incarcerated women.
• To evaluate variations in psychotropic drug use during ASPO compared to the pre-pandemic period.
• To analyze clinical histories quantitatively regarding psychotropic prescriptions for anxiety.

Summary:

• A retrospective analysis of clinical records revealed a 29% increase in psychotropic treatments for anxiety among incarcerated women during ASPO.
• Reactive anxiety was the leading indication for prescriptions both before and during ASPO.
• A significant shift in psychotropic drug patterns was observed, including the combined use of sedative antipsychotics.

Impact:

• Findings confirm a correlation between ASPO, increased anxiety symptoms, and higher rates of psychotropic treatment in detained women.
• The study enhances understanding of the ASPO's impact on mental health and psychotropic medication use in this vulnerable population.
• Results provide crucial data for public health strategies and mental healthcare provision in correctional facilities during health crises.