ABSTRACT
Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and its consequences may impact individuals' mental health. Objective(s): The present study aimed to investigate the psychological status of individuals during the COVID-19 outbreak in Iran following the government's social distancing plan. Method(s): Data from 1,524 people were collected using a cross-sectional web-based survey via social media. Demographic variables and psychological status were evaluated using the General Health Questionnaire, Stress Response Inventory, and Brunel Mood Scale. Result(s): Individuals reported that their mental health decreased during the pandemic. Four factors were associated with increased stress: (1) Fear of getting sick;(2) indefinite quarantine duration;(3) impaired daily activities;and (4) reduced social communication. One-third of the participants reported physical symptoms (32.7%), 47% anxiety, 72% social dysfunction, and 28.3% depression. Approximately half of the participants (52.2%) reported mental health disorder symptoms. Detrimental mental health characteristics were higher among females, younger people, and singles. Conclusion(s): Health policies should be implemented to help reduce the psychological burden during and after the Iranian government's SDP, especially among females, singles, and younger people.Copyright © 2023, Author(s).