Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an emerging infectious disease that began in December 2019 in China, leading to a worldwide public health emergency crisis of global concern, a burden on the health sectors, and a significant challenge for psychological flexibility. This study aimed to determine and assess the psychological impact of COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia for early intervention to help the population cope with and reduce such responses.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among Saudi Arabia citizens and residents during the pandemic of COVID-19 from June 7 to 21, 2020. An online questionnaire did the assessment. The questionnaire focused on sociodemographic data, physical symptoms in the past 14 days, previous diagnosis with COVID-19, being in quarantine, history of contact with a COVID-19 infected person, and mental health status that was assessed by the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21).
Results: A total of 1,413 participants voluntarily filled the questionnaire; however, only 1,311 fulfilled the criteria and were included in this study. The majority of the participants were normal. The gender, residency, and marital status were significantly associated with all DASS-21 subscales. The age and employment status were significantly related to DASS-21 depression and stress subscales. Nationality was significantly associated with both DASS-21 anxiety and stress subscales. Nevertheless, being diagnosed with COVID-19 or having close contact with an individual who was a confirmed case of COVID-19 infection was not significantly associated.
Conclusion: Our results suggest that participants who have depression, anxiety, and stress need to be identified and addressed. To better cope and manage psychological distress related to COVID-19 pandemic, psychological interventions should be provided via telemedicine due to social distancing and broader coverage.
Key words: COVID-19, psychological responses.
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