COVID-19 Pandemic and Mental Health Problems among Healthcare Professionals: A Review

Abstract

The prevalence of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is increasing day by day locally, nationally, and internationally. The common mental health problems experienced by the healthcare workers (HCWs) are anxiety, stress, depression, and insomnia. In all, 59% of HCWs are experiencing moderate to severe perceived stress. Symptoms of depression and anxiety were found in one of five healthcare professionals. The occurrence of anxiety and depression was high among female HCWs and nursing staff. The prevalence of anxiety for doctors was 21.73% and nurses was 25.80%. The prevalence rate of depression for nurses was 29.65% and for the doctors was 24.5%. Four in 10 HCWs are experiencing sleeping difficulties and/or insomnia. Estimated insomnia prevalence rate was 38.9%. The possible solutions to overcome the mental health problems among HCWs are increased manpower, community awareness, adequate knowledge about virus prevention and transmission, social isolation, and adequate supply of personal protective equipments (PPEs).