Evaluation of psychopathological symptoms, death anxiety, coronavirus anxiety, suicide risk, and associated risk factors among hemodialysis patients in the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Background: Hemodialysis (HD) patients have significant mental health problems related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the psychopathological symptoms, death anxiety, coronavirus anxiety, suicide risk, and associated risk factors in HD patients during COVID-19. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from July 15 to October 15, 2021, with 114 HD patients who were undergoing treatment in two central dialysis units. Results: It was determined that HD patients had high levels of psychopathological symptoms. Approximately, one-third of HD patients (31.6%) had high to very high-level death anxiety. Additionally, of the participants 30.7% had coronavirus anxiety, and also the rate of severe suicide risk was 10.5%. Conclusions: HD patients have experienced various mental health problems during the COVID-19 pandemic. Psychosocial support and interventions need to be planned by the healthcare system and healthcare providers to help HD patients in managing their disease and related mental health problems.