A Study on the Prevalence of Psychological Impact During the COVID19 Pandemic

Abstract

Purpose-COVID-19 caused a great deal of anxiety across the world. In addition to the apparent clinical effects in patients contaminated with it, general mental wellbeing has been severely affected. India implemented a lockdown, like other nations, to control and restrict spread of corona virus. Current research aims to address the psychological impact among Indians caused due to preventive measures suggested by WHO. Design/methodology/approach- An online based survey of questions on psychological impact has been carried out among two thousands adult populations. A multi-criteria decision making approach along with statistical analysis have been used to evaluate the data. Findings- Despite the current situation, stress, anxiety, and depression were found to be in normal ranges for mental health among the individuals highlighting their capabilities to remain normal in times of COVID-19. Limitations/implications- Firstly, the sample size was very limited in some categories. Secondly, online Google-forms is used by researchers to gather data that avoids a wider segment of the population, that have no internet, and also particularly underprivileged people. Practical implications- Taking the results of this study into account, it is necessary to develop time-based strategies and enforce national surveillance plans that will better control the outbreak and encourage public mental health in the face of COVID-19 induced psychological difficulties. Originality/value- This article is amongst the first to focus on the link between the multicriteria decision making and statistical analysis