Psychological Disorders among Healthcare Workers in Saudi Arabia during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Healthcare workers (HCWs) with high risk duties are at a significant risk of psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic. Objectives: To estimate the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among HCWs during COVID-19 pandemic in the Western region in Saudi Arabia, and investigate their associations as being high risk HCWs. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted using an electronic questionnaire circulated to HCWs via social applications, including socio-demographic information, occupational characteristics, and the validated depression, anxiety, and stress (DASS-21) scale. Results: Around 36.1% of HCWs suffered from depression and anxiety and 22.9% suffered from stress. Anxiety median scores were significantly higher among high risk HCWs compared to low risk HCWs (p=.002). For depression and stress subscales, high risk workers have higher median scores compared to low-risk HCWs but it was not statistically significant. While anxiety was significantly higher among high risk HCWs (45.4%) compared to low-risk HCWs (17%) (p=.001). Conclusion: High levels of depression, anxiety, and stress are observed among HCWs during the COVID-19 pandemic. HCWs who are working in high risk services have significantly higher anxiety as compared to those who are at low-risk. A psychological crisis intervention plan should be developed and implemented.