The severity of mental health problems in healthcare professionals and its associated risk factors during COVID-19 pandemic

Melaku Getachew; Habtamu Tadesse; Natanim  Degefu

doi:10.18502/fem.v7i1.11693

Melaku Getachew Department of Emergency & Critical Care Medicine, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia.
Habtamu Tadesse Department of Psychiatry, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia.
Natanim Degefu Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/fem.v7i1.11693

Keywords: COVID-19; Ethiopia; Healthcare Professionals; Mental Health Problems; Tertiary Hospital

Abstract

Objective: This study assesses the severity of mental health problems in healthcare professionals (HCPs) and its associated risk factors during COVID-19 pandemic at a tertiary hospital in Harar, Eastern Ethiopia.

Methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was done from November 01 to 15, 2020. Data was collected by using a web-based self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistical analysis, cross tabs, and logistic regressions were utilized.

Results: Out of 238 HCPs, 54.6% of them had a mental health problem. The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress was 44.1%, 48.3%, and 29.0%, respectively. Cigarette smoking was the only factor associated with depression. Being female, a cigarette smoker, and previously diagnosed with COVID-19 were associated with anxiety, while cigarette smoking and previous COVID-19 suspect had a significant association with stress.

Conclusion: The burden of mental health problems among HCPs is high. The Federal Ministry of Health should incorporate psychosocial support for healthcare professionals during pandemics. This study highlights the need for developing policies to decrease mental health problems among HCPs during the COVID-19 pandemic.