Mental Health Status Of A Population During COVID-19 Pandemic in Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: The current Pandemic situation has the potential to impact mental health unfavourably. As a by and large new infection, much still needs to be had some significant awareness of Coronavirus. Following openness to the SARS-CoV-2 infection contamination, the vast majority of the people stay asymptomatic or foster gentle indications. Coronavirus cases can make complexities that will require hospitalization. Coronavirus patients revealed conditions like intense respiratory pain disorder, cardiovascular breakdown, liver harm, renal disappointment, shock, and multiorgan disappointment. During the current Coronavirus pandemic, general clinical issues have pulled in more highlight. Diverged from that, the psychological wellness outcomes of Coronavirus pandemic have gotten less thought. Methods: This study will follow a cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress during the initial stage of the COVID-19 pandemic among the Bangladeshi population. Results:Self-reported information on socio-demographics, illness and mental health status was obtained predominantly through a Facebook-based Coronavirus related page named 'Coronabarta' from 30th April to eight May 2020. Mental health status was assessed using the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21). A total of 420 individuals participated in this study who were relatively young and highly educated. The study finding suggests that COVID-19 pandemic may increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and stress in Bangladesh. The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress were 46.7% (95% Confidence Interval, CI:42.1% - 51.8%), 39.1(95% CI:34.3% – 43.9%), and 34.8% (95% CI:30.2 – 39.5%), respectively. Females and individuals with physical illness are at higher risk of developing adverse psychological consequences. Gossiping with family members is protective against depression (OR: 0.5, 95% CI:0.3 – 0.7). Watching television reduces stress (OR:0.6, 95% CI:0.4-0.9). Large cohort studies are recommended to confirm the association between COVID-19 pandemic and adverse mental health status. Necessary measures should be considered to improve psychological well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: To find out the mental health status of the population during COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh, this study finding may form a basis for the development of a mental health support strategy in Bangladesh. Bangladesh Medical Res Counc Bull 2022; 48(3): 195-202