Common mental disorder and related factors to the work of physiotherapists in the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Abstract Introduction The physiotherapists were one of the health professional categories on the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic front line, however little is known how the pandemic has affected the mental health of these professionals. Objective To analyze the relation-ship between the presence of common mental disorder (CMD) and elements related to the work of physiotherapists who have been assisting patients with COVID-19. Methods: This is a cross-sectional survey study composed by physiotherapists from four states of Brazil: Alagoas, Paraíba, Pernambuco and Rio Grande do Norte. Working conditions evaluated were type of contract, weekly worked hours, time working, job satisfaction, and psychosocial aspects related to work. The CMD assessment was performed using the Self-Reporting Questionnaire-20 (SRQ-20). Results A total of 288 physiotherapists answered the electronic form, out of which 76.2% had CMD. Fear of reinfection (OR 2.75, 95%CI: 1.35-5.63) and previous infection by COVID-19 (OR: 2.03, 95%CI: 1.09-3.78) were factors related to a higher chance of risk of CMD. However, those who reported being satisfied with the work (OR: 0.28, 95%CI 0.11-0.72) and being more than 30 years old (OR: 0.46, 95%CI 0.24-0.88) had a lower chance of CMD risk. Conclusion Physiotherapists showed a higher prevalence of CMD. Fear of reinfection and previous infection by COVID-19 were risk factors to CMD, while satisfaction with the work and being more than 30 years old were protective factors to CMD.