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A Rapid Assessment of Psychological Distress and Well-Being: Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic and Shelter-in-Place
32 Pages Posted: 8 May 2020
More...Abstract
Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is an unfolding crisis with a profound psychological and public health impact on individuals and society.
Methods: We surveyed 986 San Francisco Bay Area residents who are participants of the ongoing Stanford WELL for Life Study and were affected by the Shelter-in-Place Order on March 17, 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This study reports data collected from March 23 to April 2, 2020. The survey assesses types of worries, emotions, distress, and well-being during this time period. We will continue to collect data on well-being at five additional time points over the next 12 months.
Findings: A majority (66%) reported being distressed, about 8-fold higher than the 7% usually reported in the general population before COVID-19. Over 90% were concerned about getting COVID-19 infection and over 52% felt more stressed now. Feeling more stressed was associated with a 3-fold risk of distress (95% CI 2·07-4·93). Compared to data obtained before COVID-19, positive emotions decreased and negative emotions increased significantly (p<0·0001). Negative emotions related to Shelter-in-Place was associated with a 4-fold risk of distress (95% CI 2·70-6·36) but better well-being was significantly associated with a reduced risk of distress.
Interpretation: The increased distressed among physically healthy individuals during this time suggest a likely surge in demand for psychological health care and support. Screening and support for psychological health during and after COVID-19 may help minimize its long-term adverse effects on individuals and communities.
Funding Statement: Stanford University Department of Medicine; Foundational funding for the phase I (infrastructure) of the Stanford Wellness Living Laboratory (WELL) was provided by Amway via an unrestricted gift through the Nutrilite Health Institute Wellness Fund.
Declaration of Interests: The authors state that they have no conflicts of interest.
Ethics Approval Statement: The Institutional Review Board at Stanford University approved both the WELL Study and the COVID-19 WELL study.
Keywords: COVID-19; Shelter-in-place; distress; well-being; social isolation; quarantine; stress; mental health
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